A comment made by I’m A Celebrity campmate James Haskell in an episode which aired earlier this week has sparked complaints to TV watchdog Ofcom.
During Monday night’s instalment of the ITV reality show, James referred to fellow contestant Ian Wright as having a “clubfoot”, which many viewers felt was insensitive to those who live with the congenital condition.
After seeing Ian running through the camp, James remarked: “He’s completely lost the plot. Look at that clubfoot. Go on then, expend that energy.”
In the days that followed, 78 viewers complained to Ofcom about the comment, which the media regulator has said they are now assessing before deciding whether to launch an investigation, as is their standard procedure.
This week also saw many I’m A Celebrity fans sharing their concerns that comedian Andrew Maxwell was being bullied by Ian, which sparked a further 32 complaints.
The pair have clashed on more than one occasion during their short time in the jungle, with Ian taking particular issue with Andrew when the comedian chose to take a nap after earning 10 stars in a Bushtucker Trial, rather than doing his assigned task of washing the dishes.
Ian’s wife Nancy Hallam has spoken out in defence of the former footballer and TV pundit, insisting that everyone in the jungle is just “tetchy” because of the hunger they’re facing.
“I don’t think it’s anything particular between [Ian and Andrew],” she said. “They’re both quite strong characters. He has his moments but he’s doing well.”
I’m A Celebrity airs every night on ITV.