Luke Bateman has confirmed he is heading into the jungle for I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2026, becoming the first official cast member revealed for the upcoming season.
The former NRL player confirmed his involvement on Instagram on Wednesday, sharing that he is swapping outback Queensland for the South African jungle, putting an end to weeks of speculation surrounding his casting.
Bateman had been widely tipped as the mystery “Rugby League Romeo” from early on, with his confirmation also backing TV Blackbox reporting earlier this week that he was part of the 2026 lineup.
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In his post, Bateman said he was looking forward to what lay ahead, teasing both the challenges and the chaos still to come.
“I’m very excited to see what Robert and Julia have cooked up for me, I’m sure there will be some delectable food items and some fear instilling trials. I can’t wait. I’ll see you all in the jungle.”
Luke Bateman, pictured right alongside The Bachelors co stars Wes (left) and Ben (middle), previously appeared on Network 10’s 2023 season of the dating series (image – 10)
Bateman is no stranger to reality television, having previously appeared on Network 10’s The Bachelors in 2023 as part of the trio format, with the series cancelled following that season.
The season also featured Ben Waddell and Wesley Senna Cortes, with the finale delivering a mix of romance and heartbreak that divided viewers, culminating in Bateman leaving the experiment having found love with Ellie after an emotionally charged final chapter.
The relationship later came to an end, with Bateman confirming publicly in early 2024 that he and Ellie had gone their separate ways following the series.
Before his move into television, Bateman built a strong profile through his rugby league career, playing in the NRL with stints at the Canberra Raiders and Wests Tigers, before transitioning into media and reality TV appearances following his retirement from the game.
He will be competing in the jungle in support of Farm Angels, a charity focused on providing financial assistance and support to Australian farming families experiencing hardship.
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As in previous years, Network 10 is expected to confirm several more cast members in the lead up to launch, with further announcements anticipated ahead of Sunday’s premiere.
The new season of I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! Australia premieres this Sunday, January 18 at 7.00pm on 10, continuing Sunday to Wednesday nights across the season.
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