Chris Packham picks fight with Ant and Dec over I’m A Celeb’s ‘animal abuse’

Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “Its continued exploitation of animals for entertainment is an anachronistic embarrassment and betrays a dangerous disconnect between a world increasingly concerned with an environmental crisis.” Packham, who is president of the Royal Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, added that he was writing to Ant and Dec – full names Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly – in his personal capacity. Packham explained that shows such as I’m a Celeb – which has repeatedly been criticised for its use of animals such as snakes, insects, and reptiles – “recklessly countermands” the need for “essential action” to protect the world’s wildlife species for the sake of entertainment and humour. Urging Ant and Dec to “read the writing on the wall”, Packham continued: “The cruel exploitation of wildlife for gratuitous entertainment on your programme continues to damage the great reputation of the UK as a ‘nation of animal lovers’.” He concluded his letter with a list of recommendations for the show and its presenters. These include introducing an “educational component” about wildlife conservation from the 2024 season of I’m a Celeb, donating a portion of the profits to conservation efforts, and that Ant and Dec will “agree to be ambassadors and influencers for prominent wildlife charities”.