Wayne Rooney in Talks for 'I'm A Celebrity,' Potentially Earning Record Fee

Wayne Rooney is reportedly in advanced discussions to join the cast of "I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!" This potential appearance could see the former footballer command the largest fee in the show's 24-year history, surpassing the £1.5 million his wife, Coleen Rooney, earned for her participation two years ago.

Rooney has previously expressed interest in the reality competition. In comments made last year, he stated that he would "never say no" to the show and acknowledged that he and his wife had always watched it together, considering it the one program they might participate in. "So, you never know in the future, but I've got other things I'm looking at at the minute," he said at the time.

TV insiders suggest Rooney is motivated to join the jungle to impress his four sons. There's a possibility his wife Coleen and their younger sons Klay (13), Kit (10), and Cass (8) could travel to Australia to support him. His eldest son, Kai (16), may remain in the UK to focus on his training, having recently secured a scholarship with Manchester United.

Coleen Rooney participated in the show in 2024, reaching the final and finishing in second place behind McFly star Danny Jones. A source told The Sun on Sunday that securing Rooney would be the show's biggest signing to date, with producers believing he could replicate Coleen's popularity. The source added that Rooney is competitive and wants to show his sons what he can do, with Coleen offering him advice for jungle life.

This potential television venture comes as the Rooney family prepares for the release of their upcoming £10 million fly-on-the-wall documentary, "The Real Rooneys." The 10-part series, scheduled to air on September 24, offers viewers an inside look at the family's life, including Wayne's transition away from football management and Coleen's career following her "I'm A Celebrity" appearance.

A teaser for the documentary features banter between Wayne and Coleen about the series, with Coleen playfully asking if he's glad she allowed him to participate. The synopsis promises unprecedented access to the family, covering their married life, raising their sons, and supporting Kai's burgeoning football career. It highlights personal revelations, career milestones, and family holidays, aiming to present "Britain's most famous and private family as never seen before: warm, funny and authentic."

Kai Rooney is on track for a professional contract with Manchester United next season after signing with agent Triple S Sports earlier this year. The documentary rights were reportedly secured by Disney+ in a competitive bidding war, with a significant portion of the £10 million fee allocated to Coleen and the production company Lorton Entertainment.