Kelly Brook confronted a long-standing tension with hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly during her recent appearance on I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here. The model and radio presenter took part in the reality show, which aired on November 2023, marking her first encounter with the duo since a public feud that began in 2009.
Brook was hired as a temporary judge on Britain’s Got Talent but was dismissed after just six episodes. She has often expressed her belief that Ant and Dec played a role in her firing, which made their reunion particularly fraught. The moment arrived when she parachuted into the jungle alongside fellow contestants, including EastEnders star Shona McGarty, musician Martin Kemp, and comedian Eddie Kadi.
Body Language Expert Analyzes the Encounter
The initial meeting was described as awkward by body language expert Judi James. Despite Brook’s attempts to project confidence, James noted that the experience left her feeling “deflated.” As Brook arrived, she circled above the hosts in a helicopter, humorously pointing down at them and exclaiming, “It’s Ant and Dec,” reminiscent of a theatrical performance.
James remarked, “When Ant and Dec welcomed the group, all the contestants raised their arms in excitement—except for Kelly, who appeared to linger at the back.” This dynamic suggested a lack of comfort during a moment that should have been celebratory. Although there was no close interaction between Brook and the hosts, James pointed out that Brook made several gestures signaling a desire for dominance, including a confident hair-preen and a hip placement that could indicate a warning to potential rivals.
The tension escalated during a challenge where contestants had to grapple in a vat of offal to win a luxury ride. Brook struggled with the task, and her disappointment was evident when she remarked that she felt “like a loser.”
Reflections on the Past
The history between Brook and the hosts is not just a footnote; it has been publicly discussed before. In their 2010 memoir, Donnelly reflected on the hiring process, questioning why Brook was brought in as a fourth judge. He recalled reassuring her before the show, suggesting that she relax and enjoy the experience. Brook’s response indicated her unfamiliarity with the format, which may have contributed to the earlier conflict.
As the reunion unfolded on screen, the tension was palpable. While Brook attempted to navigate her emotions, the underlying sense of competition and past grievances emerged clearly.
This reunion not only rekindled old memories but also highlighted the complexities of relationships forged in the often unforgiving environment of reality television. As Brook continues her journey on I’m A Celebrity, viewers are left wondering how her dynamic with Ant and Dec will evolve throughout the season.
