Maura Higgins has confirmed she will be the new co-host of the U.S. version of "I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here," adding another significant role to her expanding presence in American television. Higgins revealed the news via her Instagram stories on Saturday, sharing U.S. news articles that named her and Rob Rausch as the show's hosts.
The upcoming season is slated to air on Peacock next year, though filming locations have not yet been specified. This role marks Higgins' continued foray into the U.S. market, following her appearance on "The Traitors" and her hosting duties for "Love Island US: Aftersun."
Higgins will be joined by Rausch, 28, a fellow contestant from "The Traitors" U.S. season, where he played the role of Traitor and deceived Higgins, a Faithful. The pair reached the final of the competition earlier this year. Higgins stated she had forgiven Rausch, who offered her a Birkin handbag as an apology.
This announcement comes shortly after Higgins was named the host of a rebooted "Blind Date" in the UK. She is also scheduled to compete on "Dancing With The Stars" this autumn.
The "I'm A Celebrity" franchise has previously faced challenges in the U.S., with two prior iterations lasting only one season. However, ITV America, the producer of "Love Island US," has expressed persistent interest in selling the show, with CEO David George stating last year that they were closer than ever to a sale.
Higgins is no stranger to the "I'm A Celebrity" format, having competed in the U.K. version in 2024, where she finished in seventh place. Her previous reality television experience includes starring in both the U.S. and U.K. versions of "Love Island."
Rausch, like Higgins, first gained recognition through the U.S. dating show "Love Island," having appeared in its fifth and sixth seasons.
In her role as host for the "Blind Date" reboot, Higgins is expected to bring her characteristic humor and reality show contestant experience. Angela Jain, head of content at Disney+ EMEA, stated that Higgins is a "perfect match" for the show, citing her "straight-talking humour" and ability to engage new audiences.
The "Blind Date" reboot will retain the original format, where contestants select a date from three unseen suitors behind a wall, with added "innovative format twists and a spicy dose of drama."
Sources indicated that Higgins was considered for the "Blind Date" hosting role in June, with producers reportedly convinced of her suitability due to her reality dating show background and international appeal.
Beyond her hosting and competition roles, Higgins has also appeared on various other television programs, including "Dancing On Ice," "Glow Up Ireland," and "Supermarket Sweep."