ITV considering hosting I’m a Celebrity ‘every other year in Wales’ if series is a success

ITV bosses are reportedly considering making I’m A Celebrity’s move to Gwrych Castle semi-permanent, if this year’s series of the hit reality show is a success.

Producers were forced to relocate from Australia to Wales for its 20th series due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

According to The Sun, plans are now afoot to host the show in Wales every other year, with it being held back in New South Wales in the intervening years. 

Permanent move? ITV bosses are reportedly considering making I’m A Celebrity’s move to Gwrych Castle semi-permanent, if this year’s series of the hit reality show is a success

Showrunners have reportedly already asked the owners of the castle whether the move might be possible. 

An insider told the newspaper: ‘It’s been really challenging for everyone involved just to get the show on air this year, but it’s given producers a chance to reflect and take stock more than usual. 

‘They’ve loved trying new things with a different location and the idea of having alternate years has been discussed. 

‘It depends a lot on how viewers like this coming series, but everyone is confident it’ll be more loved than ever given its new twists.’ 

Previous years: The new Welsh series is set to completely alter the show, having been held in Australia for each of the past 19 years. 2019 Queen of the Jungle Jacqueline Jossa is pictured

Previous years: The new Welsh series is set to completely alter the show, having been held in Australia for each of the past 19 years. 2019 Queen of the Jungle Jacqueline Jossa is pictured

Mixing things up: If the rumours are true, it would mean Ant and Dec would only have to fly out to Australia every other year (pictured in Australia in 2019)

Mixing things up: If the rumours are true, it would mean Ant and Dec would only have to fly out to Australia every other year (pictured in Australia in 2019) 

MailOnline has contacted ITV for comment. 

The new Welsh home certainly has not put celebrities off from applying to be a part of the show.

The forthcoming 20th series is set to be a bumper year for A-list talent, with Olympian Sir Mo Farah, 38, TV host Vernon Kay, 46, top flight journalist Victoria Derbyshire, 52, and EastEnders legend Shane Richie, 56, all set to take part.

Contestants are said to be isolating at a lavish country estate in North Wales ahead of the new series this Sunday. 

The lavish country estate in North Wales is set on sprawling land for guests to enjoy with its own lake, buildings and farm on the grounds. 

The countdown is on: The hosts shared this behind-the-scenes snap at the castle ahead of Sunday's series launch

The countdown is on: The hosts shared this behind-the-scenes snap at the castle ahead of Sunday’s series launch

Fancy that: The I'm A Celebrity 2020 contestants are said to be isolating at a lavish country estate in North Wales ahead of the new series this Sunday

Fancy that: The I’m A Celebrity 2020 contestants are said to be isolating at a lavish country estate in North Wales ahead of the new series this Sunday 

No expense spared: Vernon Kay also gave fans a glimpse into isolation as he revealed his accommodation had a hot tub,and its very own gym in a remote location on Anglesey coast

No expense spared: Vernon Kay also gave fans a glimpse into isolation as he revealed his accommodation had a hot tub,and its very own gym in a remote location on Anglesey coast 

Cosy: A log fire...

... and a wide screen TV were also featured during Vernon's guided tour on Monday morning

Cosy: A log fire (L) and a wide screen TV (R) were also featured during Vernon’s guided tour on Monday morning

Other details in in the mansion, which is nearby Gwrych Castle, include period features such as slash windows, slate roof tiles and ascending plants on the walls. 

Earlier this week, Vernon Kay gave fans a glimpse into isolation as he revealed his accommodation had a hot tub, sprawling gardens and its very own gym in a remote location on the picturesque Anglesey coast.

Taking to Instagram on Monday morning, he told fans: ‘So it’s been announced that I will be taking part in I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! I’m looking forward to it to be honest with you.

‘But, prior to going into the castle in North Wales we’ve been isolating separately in beautiful farm houses, bed and breakfasts, hotels, that kind of thing. 

‘And I’ve been fortunate enough to stay in this place. It’s beautiful, little farm house in Anglesey.’

The presenter also offered a worrying portent of things to come by admitting the dire Welsh weather was already starting to affect him.

He added: ‘The weathers been interesting. Hideous winds at time where I haven’t been able to sleep, apart from that it’s been great.

‘I brought my own golf net so I can practice my golf swing. Look at the Moors behind me. You get the RAF flying over pretty much every day practising their low flying skills.’

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! launches at 9:00pm, ITV1 on Sunday November 15th. 

New home: Showrunners have reportedly already asked the owners of Gwrych Castle whether a semi-permanent move might be possible

New home: Showrunners have reportedly already asked the owners of Gwrych Castle whether a semi-permanent move might be possible