Mariella Frostrup Reportedly in Talks for 'I'm a Celebrity' After Jesy Nelson Withdraws

ITV is reportedly in advanced negotiations to cast Mariella Frostrup in "I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!" following the withdrawal of Jesy Nelson. Nelson, 35, a former member of the group Little Mix, reportedly backed out of a six-figure deal just weeks before the series launch to care for her daughters who are battling Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) type 1.

A TV insider told The Sun that Frostrup, 63, known for her career in broadcasting and journalism, would be a "prestige signing" for the show. "It's fair to say she isn't the sort of character you necessarily expect to see heading into camp," the insider added. "With a career in broadcasting and journalism she's likely to have a wealth of anecdotes to share with her campmates."

Frostrup began her career in music PR, contributing to the publicity for Live Aid in 1985, before transitioning to television presenting and journalism. She has interviewed notable figures such as George Michael, Paul McCartney, and Hillary Clinton.

Nelson's decision to withdraw comes after she announced in January that her daughters, Ocean and Story, were diagnosed with SMA. A source indicated that Nelson has been actively campaigning for SMA awareness and that "there is no way Jesy would leave her children to go into the Australian jungle." The source added, "Her family are her priority," and that ITV is supportive, leaving the door open for Nelson in the future.

Other celebrities reportedly in talks for the upcoming season include Wayne Rooney, AJ Odudu, Chloe Burrows, and Joanna Page. Previous participants from the show "Loose Women" include Jane Moore, Myleene Klass, Stacey Solomon, Janet Street-Porter, and Linda Robson.