Zara McDermott reveals ‘real reason’ she’s not joining Sam Thompson in Australia ahead of new I’m A Celeb spin-off show
FORMER Love Island star Zara McDermott has admitted the reason she’s not going Down Under to support Sam Thompson’s new spin-off show.
Previous King of the Jungle Sam, 32, is set to host the sister show, Unpacked, with Joel Dommett and Kemi Rodgers.
Model Zara, 27, opened up in a Q&A on Instagram after a fan asked: “How come you didn’t go with Sam to Australia?”
Zara explained: “You guys are funny. I’ve had this question so many times! Well firstly I’m filming my documentary about stalking at the moment and it’s really not possible to take time off filming at short notice.
“Sam’s show only got confirmed last month. I am working with some amazing women.
“It wouldn’t feel right, and I wouldn’t want to just pull out of filming and let everyone down, especially the brave women who have come forward to share their stories with me.
“Secondly; Sam has to get up for work at 1am every day, it’s a closed set so I wouldn’t be able to go to work with him. I’d just be sat at the hotel while he’s working.
“He also goes to bed at around 4/5pm Australia time in order to get up at 1am.
“I don’t know how it would work me being out there with him because it’s not like I’d be able to go for dinners and stuff on my own. I’d probably have to go to sleep at that time too.”
She added: “Let’s see, if he ends up going back next year for another season then I’ll defo go out there if I can.
“Also though, I think it’s funny how people assume just because Sam is working away, I automatically should go.
“Love you guys but I also have a job too.”
The ex Strictly star has also shut down any dreams Sam had of striking up a bond with Ant and Dec.
The night before he caught his flight to the Aussie jungle, Sam shared a video of himself in bed with Zara where they talked about his forthcoming trip.
The former Made In Chelsea star was seen beaming that the new job meant he would be “best friends” with main presenters Ant and Dec.
However, Zara quickly reminded him he was “only hosting the spin-off show” and wasn’t “technically” working with the Geordie duo.