Ofcom complaints flood in over Ant and Dec's controversial jokes on I'm A Celebrity

In Australia, the reality show I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! faced backlash after its hosts, Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, made jokes that offended some viewers. The controversy unfolded during the live shows when Reverend Richard Coles joined the camp with Love Island's Maura Higgins. Ant and Dec engaged in a humorous routine that involved mimicking prayer gestures and chatting about Richard in a mock-serious tone. Their comedic exchange included lines that referenced Biblical themes, which some audience members interpreted as insensitive. The remarks followed Coles making a cheeky joke about having bedded a royal, which further fueled viewer discontent. As the fans reacted to the episodes, the hosts' quips quickly drew complaints directed towards Ofcom. Viewers cited that their jokes, particularly those about Coles, lacked respect for his position as a reverend. Dec's comment, "More tea vicar?" and the whimsical retelling of Richard's night in the jungle were perceived by many as diminishing the seriousness of being a religious figure. The ongoing reality show's dynamics changed substantially with the introduction of Reverend Richard Coles, as he brought a contrasting aura to the camp's already lively atmosphere, garnering both humor and controversy. In light of the complaints, the conversations on social media platforms exploded, with fans expressing both their love for Richard Coles and their disapproval of Ant and Dec's humor. Their comments about Coles' interactions and hot takes regarding royalty were widely shared online. The polarized responses indicated that while some viewers enjoyed the playful antics of the hosts, others found it distasteful and a violation of appropriate comedic boundaries, signaling a divide among the audience base. This incident raised questions about the balance between entertainment and respect within reality TV programming. As the complaints escalated, it became evident that public sentiment could sway on what constituted acceptable humor. With an audience that varies vastly in background and expectations, the incident highlighted the need for sensitivity in comedic approaches, especially in a setting that features religious figures and personal anecdotes. Overall, the episode sparked much reflection on the responsibility entertainment platforms have in ensuring their content resonates positively with all audience members.