Zara McDermott reveals why she didn’t meet Sam Thompson after I’m A Celeb win

Zara McDermott has explained the reason behind her absence when her boyfriend Sam Thompson was declared the champion of I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here in Australia last Sunday.

The one-time celebrity of Made In Chelsea, aged 31, has been declared the winner of the jungle competition, with the famous boxer Tony Bellew earning second place and Nigel Farage in third.

Even though Thompson was the one bookies predicted to win, McDermott opted to stay at their residence in London instead. His close pal Pete Wicks went instead to cheer him on.

The former Love Island contestant who now makes documentaries shared that she wasn't able to go to Australia because she believed she'd still be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing.

Earlier this month, she posted on her Instagram account stating that Pete is leaving. They had some fun and enjoyed humorously discussing the matter.

To be honest, Sam had the belief that I was going to remain in Strictly (he's such a kind soul), which caused Pete to free up his schedule for 2-3 weeks to attend.

In 2023, Thompson was declared the ultimate ruler of the jungle.

Ever since McDermott bid adieu to Strictly in the previous month of October, she has been bogged down with professional commitments. These obligations have also prevented her from traveling to Australia.

Additionally, I had to hastily return to my job right after the completion of Strictly. This was done so that I could finalize two of my documentaries before the Christmas period. As of now, I am overseas filming for these projects, while also engaging in rehearsals for the last Strictly dance performance.

"It was quite difficult to clear everything, but Sam was extremely thrilled about the prospect of Pete's presence. Hence, he didn't mind my waiting for him at the base."

Although he wasn't in the wilderness to commemorate his triumph, McDermott threw a farewell shindig at his residence in London and rooted for himself alongside his loved ones.

During an episode of Lorraine on Monday, McDermott expressed her delight in Thompson winning this year's competition in a heartwarming pre-recorded clip.

Speaking to her partner whom she had been with for four years, she expressed, "I am beyond proud. Your conduct in the jungle was admirable and you made all of your fellow campers feel at ease. You truly brightened up that camp."

"I have never encountered somebody like you previously. I cherish you to such an extent and am excitedly anticipating your return."

As a reaction to the incident, Thompson - a celebrity from a reality TV show - fought to control his emotions while speaking to presenter Lorraine Kelly. He expressed: "It's incredibly heartwarming to witness moments like that, because that's my darling little one!"

I really long for her presence. It fills me with gratitude that she chooses to rest by my side every night. There are people who inquire, "How did you manage to find such a companion?" and I have no concrete answer for them. There are even moments when I wake up and question whether it's all a figment of my imagination. However, fortunately, it's not!

I have intense feelings of affection towards her. I am incredibly thankful to have her be a part of my life.