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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
Entertainment
Sarah Robertson & Beth Cruse

I'm A Celebrity could be axed as bosses in 'absolute panic' after storm disaster which could cost millions

This series of I'm A Celeb could be axed after Storm Arwen ripped through camp causing extensive damage.

The storm forced a 48-hour blackout which meant the show was pulled just hours before last night's episode.

It has since been confirmed there will be no live show tonight (Sunday, November 28).

Read more: Storm Arwen continues to cause disruption and more snow could be on the way - live

ITV bosses said the production base had suffered “significant damage” in the storm.

But contestants are safe and remain inside Gwrych Castle, reports the Mirror, which has published pictures of the damage.

It is the first mid-series shutdown in the show’s 18-year history. It comes after the series was engulfed in chaos when three celebs needed medical attention.

Producers are said to have fears for Naughty Boy, Arlene Phillips and Frankie Bridge following the departure of Richard Madeley.

And insiders are concerned a decision could be made to ditch the series, which would cost ITV millions of pounds.

One told the Sunday Mirror the “shutdown has caused absolute panic”. Only essential crew now remain on site.

The I'm A Celeb campmates (ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

The show averages 11.5 million viewers and advertising slots cost a fortune. There is also a sponsorship deal with bingo site Tombola.

Our insider said: ‘I’m A Celebrity is the jewel in ITV’s crown – one of their top-earning and most popular shows.

“Having it disappear, even for 48 hours, a week into the series is a disaster.”

Branding expert Mark Borkowski told us: “I suspect there’s a lot of wringing hands inside ITV because it’s about momentum.

“The first week is about building a relationship with the audience with those stars – good and bad – and that’s not happening. People will stray off.”

Clip compilations replaced tonight’s episode.

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