The wait is over, Australia — the jungle is calling once more!

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! stormed back onto screens on Sunday January 18, 2026, kicking off its 12th season with a bang on Channel 10 and 10Play. Hosted by the unbeatable duo of Julia Morris and Robert Irwin, this year’s iteration promises to be the ‘toughest yet’, with celebrities plunged into the wilds of Kruger National Park, South Africa, facing their worst fears for a shot at $100,000 for charity.

Filmed in late 2025 and pre-recorded (a major change from previous live formats), the season wrapped just before Christmas, allowing producers to craft high-drama episodes without the unpredictability of live voting. Audience votes will still decide the winner once the final three are revealed, but the shift has sparked debate among die-hard fans who miss the real-time tension.

Julia Morris, returning for her umpteenth stint, warned viewers in the premiere: ‘This season is going to be brutal — eyeballs, maggots, yucky shakes, spiders, scorpions, bugs and snakes!’ Robert Irwin, fresh off his triumphant Dancing With The Stars US win, added his signature enthusiasm: ‘It’s lights, camera, actiiiooon in the jungle!’

The pair even dropped a hilarious promo singing about the horrors ahead, complete with jungle-themed choreography — proving the chemistry that makes them the perfect hosting team.

The location remains the iconic Kruger National Park — a sprawling 19,623 km² wilderness that’s home to thousands of species of birds, reptiles, mammals and, of course, the creepy crawlies that make Bushtucker Trials so infamous. Established in 1926 as South Africa’s first national park, Kruger provides the ultimate survival backdrop: dense bush, extreme heat, and wildlife encounters that test even the bravest celebrities.

This year’s cast is a fascinating mix of Australian icons, international stars, sports legends, social media sensations and entertainment veterans — all competing for glory and charity cash.

Here’s the full lineup revealed so far:

• Rachel Hunter — The New Zealand-born supermodel and international fashion icon brings glamour to the jungle. Known for her ’90s campaigns and TV work, Rachel is raising funds for a charity close to her heart.
• Barry Williams — Hollywood sitcom royalty! The man who played Greg Brady on The Brady Bunch is trading sunny California for the African bush, bringing nostalgia and humour to camp.
• Mia Fevola — Content creator and daughter of AFL legend Brendan Fevola. Mia’s social media savvy and family ties make her a fan favourite already.
• Luke Bateman — Former NRL player turned BookTok sensation. Luke was the first celeb confirmed, exciting fans with his athletic background and online storytelling flair.
• Nath Valvo — Comedian and sharp-witted entertainer, guaranteed to keep camp spirits high (or roast them mercilessly).
• Deni Hines — ’90s pop singer with hits like It’s Alright. Deni’s soulful voice could light up the campfire — if she survives the trials.
• Rebekah Elmaloglou — Australian soap royalty from Home and Away. Rebekah’s dramatic experience might help in camp politics.
• Gary Sweet — Logie-winning actor known for iconic roles in Aussie TV and film. Gary brings gravitas and storytelling to the mix.
• Dyson Heppell — AFL star from Essendon, adding sporting prowess and competitive edge.
• Concetta Caristo — Triple j Breakfast radio host and comedian, bringing quick wit and youthful energy.

Two more celebrities were teased to arrive in early episodes — their identities set to shake up camp dynamics. Producers have kept details under wraps, promising ‘surprise arrivals’ that could change alliances and strategies.

The format sticks to the classics: daily Bushtucker Trials where stars face phobias (heights, bugs, eating revolting jungle delicacies) to win meals for camp. Stars earn stars for food — the more stars, the better the dinner. Challenges test physical, mental and emotional resilience, with the campmates voting for who faces the worst.

This season’s pre-recording has sparked mixed reactions. Fans miss live eliminations and real-time voting drama, but producers say it allows for tighter storytelling and higher production values. Julia Morris addressed the change: ‘We filmed everything — trials, camp life, drama — so you get the full, unfiltered experience without waiting for votes.’

Robert Irwin, wildlife warrior and son of the late Steve Irwin, brings extra excitement. Fresh from Dancing With The Stars glory, he’s promised ‘more animal encounters’ and ‘bigger challenges’. His enthusiasm is infectious: ‘The jungle is full of surprises — and so are our celebs!’

The $100,000 prize goes to the winner’s chosen charity — a tradition that adds heart to the horror. Past seasons have raised millions for causes from cancer research to wildlife conservation.

As the season unfolds (Sundays at 7pm, Monday-Wednesday at 7:30pm on Channel 10/10Play), expect fireworks: camp alliances, betrayals, tearful moments and triumphant victories.

With a cast blending Hollywood nostalgia, sports grit, music legacy and social media buzz, 2026’s I’m A Celebrity is shaping up as one of the most diverse and entertaining yet.

Julia summed it up perfectly: ‘Get ready for the toughest, funniest, most emotional jungle adventure yet.’

Australia, the celebrities are in — and the bugs are waiting.

Tune in — the drama is just beginning.