In The Telegraph, Guy Kelly expressed that there wasn't much to relish about the inaugural episode of "I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here". He pointed out that while we could at least find amusement in the ousted Tory MPs who likely believed they'd secure a place in the camp easily. Kelly further stated that for years, offering politicians the chance to "launder their dignity by consuming rather unconventional items under the seemingly effortless supervision of Ant and Dec" had been the show's recurrent "tactic". The notable absence of any such "Westminster-type" figure in the 2024 edition seemed like a "missed opportunity" by the producers.The Absence of Provocateurs
According to Katie Rosseinsky in The Independent, in the 2024 lineup, there are no "obviously attention-grabbing troublemakers". Instead, it appears to be "reality TV following a set pattern". A Corrie star, a "Loose Women" panelist, and a McFly band member make up the cast. It's a repetitive formula that keeps getting recycled.
The Biggest Attraction
The most significant draw is seemingly Coleen Rooney - the typically private wife of former England footballer Wayne Rooney. She has made headlines due to her prominent role in the "Wagatha Christie" libel trial. Her presence actually provides an opportunity for Ant and Dec to showcase their best comedic bits. Just five minutes into the first episode, Dec cracked a joke saying, "It'll be pleasant for Coleen to face a trial that doesn't involve Rebekah Vardy."
Celebrities' Personality Traits
This year, the celebrities seem to have a certain quality. As whispered, they are "too nice". This is great for their own enjoyment levels, but from a viewer's perspective at home, it might not be as exciting. Without the usual mix of "tricky personalities" and the potential for "intra-camp romance", it's unlikely to offer the "twists and turns" that audiences have come to anticipate.
The Physical Fatigue of Watching
As the theme song started, the "sweeping drone shots" of the jungle appeared on the TV, and the "people off-camera who are specifically paid to laugh at Ant and Dec's jokes (are they being dangled over the side of the walkway?) let out hearty laughs". Kelly in The Telegraph mentioned that the new series "gave off a sense of physical exhaustion just by watching it". The entire thing seems to be completely lacking in new concepts.
The Predictability of the Show
Indeed, after more than two decades of the show, viewers have a clear understanding of what to expect. The celebrities must "pretend to be surprised" when they hear helicopters approaching, hinting at the "inevitable skydiving challenge". And of course, the welcome drinks are "a concoction of blended bulls penis and fish eyes, decorated with cocktail umbrellas".
The Potential of Maura Higgins
Perhaps Irish reality star Maura Higgins (who is rumored to be making an appearance) will "inject some excitement if and when she shows up", as stated by Ed Power in The Irish Times. But for now, "it all seems a bit lackluster".
