David Haye is reportedly preparing to take legal action against ITV for “irreparable damage” to his reputation following his controversial appearance on I’m A Celebrity… South Africa. The 45-year-old retired boxer has instructed his legal team to demand a full investigation into the show’s editing, which he believes deliberately portrayed him as the “pantomime villain.”
The feud with I’m A Celeb winner Adam Thomas, which aired last year, led to accusations of bullying and misogynistic behavior. Viewers also criticized Haye for his comments about women, particularly his remarks about fellow contestant Gemma Collins. Haye, however, claims that the show’s editors manipulated footage to make him appear more aggressive and antagonistic than he was.
According to sources, Haye is seeking up to £10 million in damages to recover lost earnings, citing the negative impact on his personal brand. The boxer’s potential lawsuit comes after the collapse of a major Netflix project and other paused brand deals, believed to be a result of the portrayal on the show.
In particular, Haye is angry about a moment where he allegedly fat-shamed Gemma Collins. During a camp debate about who would take part in a challenge, Haye’s comment, “You need to eat tonight,” was edited to appear more cutting and hurtful, according to his camp. Haye feels this moment, along with other edits, painted him as the villain unfairly.
A source close to Haye revealed, “David is absolutely furious about how the series was edited. He believes he’s been made a scapegoat, and he wants answers from ITV.” Haye is also reportedly unhappy with how his interactions with Adam Thomas were portrayed. Despite their fractious relationship during the show, Haye insists they had a good rapport afterward.
In the live finale of the show, Haye clashed with Thomas, questioning his victory and calling him out for allegedly playing the victim. “I got on with everybody, even Adam. I think he’s playing the victim card,” Haye said during the live broadcast, prompting a tense exchange with Thomas.
David’s comments, both inside and outside the jungle, have sparked a backlash from viewers who labeled him a misogynist. Critics have pointed to his remarks about women and a controversial statement regarding his girlfriend’s appearance, which was interpreted by many as sexist. However, Haye defended his comments, claiming they were misunderstood and that his relationship with his girlfriend is based on mutual understanding.
David’s legal battle with ITV is just the latest in a string of controversies surrounding his I’m A Celebrity appearance. Fans and critics alike continue to debate whether Haye’s portrayal was fair, or if ITV’s editing choices were made with dramatic effect at the cost of his reputation.
