In a gut-wrenching turn of events, Beverley Callard, beloved star of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! has been forced to miss the much-anticipated live final tonight (Friday, April 24) after receiving devastating news from her doctors. The iconic actress, who has become a fan favourite over the years, is battling breast cancer, and unfortunately, her health has taken precedence, leaving her unable to join her fellow campmates for the grand finale.
A Disappointment Like No Other
The excitement had been building all week as Beverley, a key contender, was looking forward to reuniting with her fellow contestants in the grand finale of I’m A Celebrity 2026. But, just one day before the live show, Beverley made the heartbreaking announcement that she could not make it after receiving medical advice.
Speaking in a tearful video to her 290k Instagram followers, Beverley revealed: “Yesterday, I was supposed to fly to England to get ready for the final. I was so excited, I couldn’t wait. But unfortunately, on medical advice, I can’t go. I am absolutely gutted.”
Her voice wavered with emotion as she explained, “They said it’s just too long of a day with the flight and a very late night. I wanted to see everyone, it would have been brilliant, but I have to rest, so here I am.”
The moment was raw, vulnerable, and painfully real. Beverley’s words spoke volumes about her love for the show, her fellow contestants, and the fans who have supported her throughout her incredible journey.
Battling Beyond the Spotlight
For those who have followed Beverley’s journey, this news has struck a chord. Known for her unbreakable spirit and fierce determination, Beverley has been dealing with more than just the challenges of I’m A Celebrity – she has been facing the toughest battle of all: breast cancer. Earlier in the week, Beverley had sparked concern when she hinted she might not make the finale. And while she fought hard to keep going, her health has sadly caught up with her.
Despite being unable to join the live final in person, Beverley’s love for the show remains unshaken. In her video, she made it clear that she would still be a part of the finale in some way, sharing that she’d be tuning in from home and joining the action via Zoom. “I will be watching and I will be on Zoom chatting to everyone. I’ve got to make the best of a bad job, but I am resting and doing as I am told. Thanks to everybody,” she said, ever the professional.
“Resting and Getting Well” – Fans Rally Behind Beverley
The love and support from Beverley’s fans and fellow campmates have been overwhelming. As soon as the news broke, messages flooded in from fans, many of whom were devastated to see their favourite contestant sidelined by illness. “Bless ya, Bev. We will miss ya,” wrote I’m A Celebrity star Ashley Roberts, showing her support.
One fan commented, “Glad they can Zoom you in to be part of it. Rest is recovery, sending lots of love.” Another fan added, “Ah Beverley, that’s so hard for you. But you will still be on TV. Rest up and enjoy being a part of it. We are all rooting for you.”
Beverley’s fellow contestants also chimed in with words of encouragement. “You’re our legend and our queen Beverley. Big hugs… and we will all be watching you on Zoom tomorrow night… rest and take time for you,” said one campmate, reminding everyone just how much Beverley means to them.
A Journey of Strength and Resilience
Earlier this week, Beverley had opened up about her emotional exit from the show. Reflecting on her time in the jungle, Beverley got tearful as she re-watched the moment she had to leave the camp. “I just watched my exit on I’m A Celeb, and it made me cry all over again. Of course, I didn’t know then that I had cancer, but I just knew that in those last couple of days, I hadn’t felt very well,” she shared.
In a vulnerable moment, she recalled, “What happened was, I went into the Bush Telegraph, and apparently, I lost consciousness for a little while. I just wasn’t feeling myself. They took me to a medical hut, and they were amazing. They really looked after me, and they said, ‘You can’t go back.’ And I said, ‘Don’t say that, don’t send me home, I’ll be fine.’ I wanted to succeed and make it through to the end, but that was the start of everything. It’s made me really emotional, but I will beat this. I will beat it.”
Those words resonate louder now than ever before.
The Nation’s Queen of the Jungle
While Beverley won’t be physically present at tonight’s finale, her spirit will undoubtedly be there. She’s a fighter, a woman of incredible strength, and above all, an inspiration to all who’ve followed her journey. As she rests and focuses on her recovery, we’re reminded of the true essence of I’m A Celebrity—it’s not just about winning, but about the strength we find in ourselves and in others.
As Beverley gears up for her next chapter, we all stand by her side, supporting the woman who has truly captured our hearts. Tonight’s finale may be missing one of its brightest stars, but Beverley Callard’s courage, resilience, and heartwarming spirit will be with us every step of the way.
This is more than just a show; this is the story of a woman who’s determined to beat the odds, no matter what.
We’re all rooting for you, Beverley.
