In an exclusive bombshell that’s sent reality TV fans into a frenzy, Network Ten has quietly greenlit Season 13 of the blockbuster hit I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Australia for a triumphant return in 2027 — even as the current 2026 season barrels towards its grand finale later this month.

The news, broken by New Idea on February 5, 2026, confirms what insiders have been whispering for weeks: despite early fan backlash over major format tweaks, the show has delivered monster ratings, outperforming fierce competition and proving it’s still the king of summer entertainment.

And the best part? Fan-favourite hosts Julia Morris and Robert Irwin are in advanced negotiations to return to the iconic South African jungle, with Network Ten bosses reportedly ready to open the chequebook to keep the dream team intact.

“Executives were waiting to see how I’m A Celebrity stacked up against the biggest shows on television and it’s absolutely delivered,” one network insider spilled exclusively to New Idea. “They’re thrilled with how this season has performed.”

The confirmation comes at the perfect time. The 2026 season — the 12th overall — premiered on January 18, 2026, on Channel 10, airing Sundays at 7pm and Mondays-Wednesdays at 7:30pm. Filmed entirely in advance between November and December 2025 in South Africa, it marked a bold shift: no live broadcasts, no viewer voting for eliminations (only for the winner), and challenges deciding who packs their bags.

Fans were furious at first. Social media erupted with complaints — “Very strange,” “Not fair,” “Where’s the live tension?” — especially after the first elimination saw celebrities booted via internal trials rather than public votes. Some even accused the challenges of being “rigged,” sparking fiery cast group chats and behind-the-scenes drama that insiders say left some stars “raging” over humiliating exits.

But the numbers don’t lie. This season has become the highest-rated since 2021, climbing higher than the previous year despite head-to-head battles with juggernauts like Married at First Sight Australia and Australian Idol. Viewers tuned in “in huge droves,” proving the core audience didn’t mind the pre-recorded format one bit.

“People worried the format change would hurt the show,” another production source revealed. “But the numbers have proven it doesn’t matter. Viewers are still tuning in.”

That ratings rocket has fast-tracked Season 13. Network Ten, having quietly axed the expensive The Amazing Race Australia (one of the priciest reality productions, with hosts like Beau Ryan commanding big fees and celebs costing a fortune), has redirected that budget straight into I’m A Celebrity. More money means bigger production values, higher celebrity appearance fees, and — crucially — locking in Julia and Robert with the pay packets they deserve.

“Once [Amazing Race] was taken off the board, that money could be redirected straight into I’m A Celebrity,” an insider dished.

Julia Morris, the quick-witted comedy queen who’s been the show’s heartbeat since 2015, and Robert Irwin, the wildlife-loving heartthrob who joined as co-host in recent years, are said to be “absolutely” keen to return. “Julia and Robert love working together,” a source close to the pair gushed. “They can’t wait to bring more chaos, laughs and jungle madness next year.”

Robert’s star power has only grown. Fresh off his Dancing with the Stars US win (where he took home the Mirrorball Trophy), the 22-year-old conservationist has international buzz swirling — including potential US opportunities. But Network Ten is determined to keep him Down Under. A new solo docu-style wildlife series for Robert (in development since 2023-2024 talks at Paramount) is reportedly part of his renewal package, backed by mum Terri Irwin and Australia Zoo.

“The ‘jungle’ isn’t going anywhere,” one excited insider declared. “If anything, it’s about to get bigger than ever!”

The official announcement for Season 13 — including confirmed hosts — is slated for the 2026 grand finale, expected later in February. Until then, fans can soak up the current drama: evictions like Rachel Hunter’s shock early exit, Deni Hines’ voluntary departure amid health woes, Matt Zukowski’s controversial mini-trial loss, and more tension from campmates like former NRL star Luke Bateman, AFL’s Dyson Heppell, model Rachel Hunter, and others in a star-studded lineup.

The 2026 twists — pre-recording for tighter storytelling, three filmed alternate endings for the winner vote, and celebrity-driven eliminations — have delivered edge-of-your-seat moments. But with the show now a proven winner, 2027 promises to crank it up: bigger budgets, possibly flashier trials, and the return of the Morris-Irwin magic that makes the jungle feel like home.

For viewers who’ve laughed at bushtucker gross-outs, cried over emotional camp confessions, and cheered underdog triumphs, this news is pure gold. I’m A Celebrity isn’t just surviving — it’s thriving.

As one fan posted amid the excitement: “The jungle’s back in 2027? Best news ever! Julia and Robert forever!”

Grab the popcorn, Australia. The adventure continues — and it’s only getting wilder.