Craig Charles from Coronation Street has revealed the heartbreaking reason he had to quit I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! just four days into the series back in 2014, explaining how a family tragedy forced him to walk away from the jungle. But now, years later, he’s about to change the ending to that story in a way no one expected.
A Look Back At An Abrupt Exit
Back in 2014, viewers watched with excitement as Craig Charles, known to millions as cabbie Lloyd Mullaney on Coronation Street, swapped the streets of Weatherfield for the I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! jungle.
The Red Dwarf actor quickly became a favourite, with many tipping him to go all the way and claim the crown. But his time on the show was cut short in heartbreaking circumstances. Just four days into camp life, Craig was told that his brother Dean had suffered a fatal heart attack.
He made the difficult decision to withdraw from the series, flying home immediately to be with his family. His fellow campmates and the production team supported his decision wholeheartedly, though viewers at the time felt a sense of unfinished business. Despite the short stay, Craig left a strong impression. Fans had rallied behind him, convinced he could have been King of the Jungle had tragedy not intervened.
Coronation Street: The Big Return To The Jungle
Now, ITV bosses have offered Craig another chance to finish what he started. He has officially signed up for the All Stars edition of I’m A Celebrity, which is currently being filmed in South Africa. Unlike the regular series in Australia, this spin-off brings back familiar faces in a high-stakes reunion of fan favourites. A TV insider explained that many viewers had been eager to see Craig win during his original stint, but his departure meant he never got the opportunity.
They added that ITV wanted to give him another go, bringing back someone whose time was cut short. Craig’s return will no doubt bring both nostalgia and excitement. The actor has since carved out a career as a popular DJ on BBC Radio 6 Music. While he takes part in filming, a stand-in presenter is covering his radio slot.
And the surprises don’t end there. This All Stars edition will also see the return of Gemma Collins, who had famously quit the jungle early. With both Craig and Gemma back, viewers can expect unfinished stories to collide. ITV has stayed tight-lipped on casting, with a spokesperson insisting that any names linked to I’m A Celebrity South Africa remain speculation. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for all the latest updates from the world of soaps and beyond.