Contestants on ‘I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!’ will no longer be fed live insects during trials.
After a campaign by wildlife experts and animal charities, ITV has now decided that only dead critters will be used in the show’s Bushtucker Trials.
A source told The Sun newspaper’s Bizarre TV column: "Producers have been debating the use of live critters in the eating tasks for some time.
"Last year only beach worms were fed to the celebrities still alive but now there’s a total ban. The increased sensitivity around the subject has become too hard to ignore."
The BBC’s Chris Packham, who presents nature show ‘Autumnwatch’, was among those who campaigned for ITV to change its policy.
However, live insects will still be used in other tasks.
Meanwhile, a gas stove will replace the traditional open fire in the camp as Australia battles a number of large fires.
An ITV spokesperson said: "In light of the current situation in Australia, ‘I’m A Celebrity’ will not feature an open camp fire.
"Instead, campmates will cook their food and boil their water on a specially made gas stove."
The latest series of the show, featuring stars including Caitlyn Jenner, Nadine Coyle and Kate Garraway, will kick off on Sunday (17.11.19) at 9pm on ITV.
I’m A Celeb bans live insects from eating trials
