ITV boss Kevin Lygo says that I'm a Celeb should go ahead this year despite the coronavirus pandemic playing havoc with TV schedules.
It has been feared that the popular reality showed might be shelved until the pandemic eases up alongside other TV favourites such as Emmerdale and Eastenders.
But Kevin has now told that the show looks 'likely to return this year', with filming being planned to take place in Australia during December.
The TV boss told the Edinburgh Television Festival via video link that although it is likely the show will go ahead, the show's bosses were looking for alternatives.
But the official remained tight lipped on what shows could replace I'm a Celeb.
Kevin's comments come after I'm A Celeb officials said earlier this week that they are adamant that filming will go ahead in the famous Aussie jungle as planned.
Inside sources close to the telly bosses told The Sun that 'virtual talks' are being initiated to prepare for the next series.
The insider explained that executives are determined to get the show up and running this year due to the fact that ratings are bound to sky rocket.
They also people being holed up in their homes for months on end would also boost ratings.
They told the paper:"ITV is certain lockdown will be well over by the time I’m A Celeb normally starts which is in November.
"Every year it's a ratings smash and this year will more than likely be even bigger as the public will be desperate for some fresh and uplifting TV."
According to the source ITV have already begun to advertise and hire for new crew members to join them in the Australian jungle.
There has been recent speculation about which celebrities could make an appearance if the show returns.
Charles Ingram is highly tipped to join this years list of contestants who will battle it out until the end to be crowned king or queen of the jungle.
Other celebrities whose names have been thrown into the jungle hat include former Strictly Come Dancing star AJ Pritchard alongside his brother's ex girlfriend and former Love Island siren, Maura Higgins.
