I’m A Celebrity South Africa 2026 Winner Crowned Amid Chaotic Live Finale Adam Thomas has been crowned the winner and “ultimate legend 2026” of I’m A Celebrity… South Africa, following a live finale that descended into chaos on Friday, April 24, 2026. The 37-year-old actor secured victory through public vote after a dramatic final episode marked by heated confrontations and walk-offs. The all-star final featured Thomas alongside Olympic athlete Sir Mo Farah, TV and radio star Craig Charles, and former football manager Harry Redknapp. Tensions escalated during the broadcast when Thomas launched an expletive-laden tirade at footballer Jimmy Bullard following a trial in which Bullard forfeited the challenge by saying “I’m a celebrity get me out of here.” Thomas told his partner he should have quit on his own or not done the show at all. The confrontation intensified when boxer David Haye joined the exchange, accusing the show of editing footage to portray Thomas as a “victim.” Haye stated: “I like to say it like I notice it,” and claimed: “We all had banter back and forth, and a lot of it was cut out from their side.” He, along with Bullard, urged fellow contestants to agree that Thomas had been “abusive, intimidating and aggressive” in their dispute. Sinitta and Gemma Collins initially defended Thomas but eventually walked off the set amid the escalating conflict. Hosts Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnelly attempted to mediate the argument, raising their voices to restore order before proceeding with the results. Craig Charles was announced in fourth place, followed by Harry Redknapp in third. Sir Mo Farah finished as runner-up before Adam Thomas was crowned the public’s king of the jungle. Following his win, Thomas posted on Instagram: “I have realised that when people strive to dim your light, it says more about them than it ever will about you.” He added: “There were moments that could have broken me, but I stayed true to myself and that is something I will always be proud of,” reflecting on his jungle experience. This victory marks Thomas’ second appearance on I’m A Celebrity, having previously finished third on the regular show in 2016. The South Africa series represents the second all-star spin-off set in the region, continuing the franchise’s tradition of bringing together notable past contestants for high-stakes jungle challenges.
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