From the Jungle to the Limelight: Where Are Australia’s “I’m A Celebrity” Winners Now?
For over a decade, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Australia has been a staple of our television screens, delivering a potent mix of gut-wrenching challenges, hilarious antics, and unforgettable jungle moments. Since its debut in 2015, the show has catapulted a diverse array of Australian and international stars into the spotlight, crowning a new King or Queen of the Jungle each season. With the anticipation building for the upcoming 2026 season, set to kick off on January 18, it’s the perfect time to cast our minds back and see what our beloved past winners have been up to since their jungle triumphs.
Season 1 (2015): Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff
The inaugural season of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Australia saw a formidable intruder, former English cricket superstar Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff, make a memorable entrance. His victory in the first series cemented his status as a household name, particularly in the UK, where he gained further fame on James Corden’s panel show A League Of Their Own. However, Flintoff’s journey has also been marked by significant challenges. In 2022, he sustained severe injuries, including facial and rib damage, during a high-speed incident while filming the popular show Top Gear. His courageous battle for recovery was poignantly documented in his 2025 documentary, where he spoke candidly about the profound impact of the accident, revealing thoughts that he “wish I’d died.”
Season 2 (2016): Brendan Fevola
Following in Flintoff’s footsteps, former Aussie Rules football star Brendan Fevola was crowned the King of the Jungle in the second season. Post-jungle, Fevola transitioned seamlessly into the media landscape, joining Fox FM to co-host the popular radio show Fifi, Dave, Fev & Byron, which continues to entertain audiences. In 2023, he took on a new challenge, participating in the fifth season of The Masked Singer Australia, though his identity was revealed after his very first performance – a moment that likely brought a chuckle to many.
Season 3 (2017): Casey Donovan
Casey Donovan, the powerhouse Australian singer and former Australian Idol winner, made history in 2017 as the first-ever Queen of the Jungle. Donovan has continued to grace the stage and screen since her win. In 2019, she captivated audiences with her role in the Australian revival of the iconic musical Chicago. More recently, she starred in the hit musical & Juliet, which toured Australia throughout 2024 and 2025. Beyond her performing career, Donovan has become a passionate advocate for wellbeing, partnering with Juniper to promote a more compassionate approach to health and body image, drawing from her own personal experiences with her body, health, and weight.
Season 4 (2018): Fiona O’Loughlin
The sharp wit and infectious humour of comedian Fiona O’Loughlin saw her crowned the winner of the fourth season in 2018. Her success in the jungle opened new doors, and later that year, she made a cameo appearance as herself in the comedy film That’s Not My Dog! In 2020, a documentary titled Lady O’Loughlin chronicled her triumphant return to stand-up comedy, showcasing her resilience and dedication to her craft. The same year also saw the release of her insightful book, Truths from an Unreliable Witness, offering readers a glimpse into her unique perspective on life.
Season 5 (2019): Richard Reid
American showbiz reporter Richard Reid charmed his way to victory in 2019, earning the title of King of the Jungle. His Australian adventure didn’t end there; he made his Australian stage debut later that year in a Sydney production of Jack and Beanstalk. More recently, Reid has been a fixture on the Australian entertainment scene, serving as the official red carpet correspondent at the prestigious 2025 Logie Awards, where he engaged with the stars of Australian television.
Season 6 (2020): Miguel Maestre
The effervescent Spanish-born chef Miguel Maestre delighted audiences and ultimately won the hearts of the nation in 2020. A familiar face on Australian television, Maestre is perhaps best known for his role as the culinary expert on The Living Room. His television career has continued to flourish, and in 2024, he took on the full-time hosting duties for the revived cooking show Ready Steady Cook Australia, bringing his signature passion and expertise to a new generation of food enthusiasts.
Season 7 (2021): Abbie Chatfield
Abbie Chatfield, who first gained national attention as a runner-up on The Bachelor in 2019, proved her mettle in the jungle, winning I’m A Celebrity in 2021. Her win propelled her into a whirlwind of media opportunities. She has since become a prominent television personality, gracing the radio waves as a host and serving as a judge on The Masked Singer Australia. Chatfield also hosts her own popular podcast, It’s A Lot, and is currently in a public relationship with singer Kelli Holiday.
Season 8 (2022): Dylan Lewis
Veteran Australian TV and radio host Dylan Lewis emerged victorious in the 2022 season of I’m A Celebrity. Lewis continues to be a prominent voice in Australian media, currently hosting Mornings on Double J. Beyond his broadcasting career, he is a passionate musician, actively involved in two bands: The Brown Hornet and The Haploids, showcasing his enduring love for music.
Season 9 (2023): Liz Ellis
Former professional netball captain Liz Ellis showcased her resilience and strategic thinking to win I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Australia in 2023. Following her jungle triumph, Ellis has become a regular fixture on Australian television, frequently appearing as a panellist on the popular news and current affairs program The Project. In 2024, she also stepped into a hosting role, co-presenting Gladiator Australia alongside Beau Ryan, demonstrating her versatility across different genres of television.
Season 10 (2024): Skye Wheatley
Influencer and former Big Brother Australia star Skye Wheatley was crowned Queen of the Jungle in 2024. Since her jungle victory, Wheatley has maintained a strong presence on social media, sharing her passion for fashion, beauty, and home decor with her dedicated followers. The savvy business owner is currently embarking on a significant personal project, building her dream home with her partner, Lachie Waugh, a sprawling estate they’ve aptly named Tallai La Casa Grande.
Season 11 (2025): Sam Thaiday
The most recent winner to emerge from the jungle is former NRL player Sam Thaiday, who claimed the title in Season 11. Thaiday has successfully transitioned into a thriving media career since his jungle stint. He is a respected commentator for Channel Nine and a dedicated ambassador for prominent charities such as the Starlight Foundation and the Leukaemia Foundation, using his platform to make a positive impact.
Season 12 (2026): Concetta Caristo
The 2026 season of I’m A Celebrity delivered a unique twist, with Concetta Caristo being crowned the winner of a pre-recorded series. In a novel format, the three finalists – Luke Bateman, Gary Sweet, and Caristo – all filmed “winning” moments for the cameras, as viewers’ votes determined the ultimate victor. Ultimately, it was Caristo whose celebratory footage made it to air. Despite the unusual circumstances of her win, the new Queen of the Jungle celebrated with friends, family, and fellow campmates. However, the reality of her demanding schedule quickly returned, as she was back in the studio by 5 am the following morning for her breakfast gig on Triple J.
With Season 12 now wrapped and Season 13 looming, the excitement is already building for who will be the next to brave the jungle and claim the coveted title in 2026. The journey of these past winners highlights the transformative power of the show, not just for their careers, but also for their personal growth and public engagement.
