Watch Strictly’s Oti Mabuse arrive in Australia for I’m A Celeb as she reveals nerves over ‘creepy’ Bushtucker trials
BUZZING Oti Mabuse has touched down in Australia as she revealed her excitement — and a few nerves — about joining I’m A Celeb.
She told The Sun’s Amir Razavi: “I’m buzzing, buzzing, buzzing. It’s warm, isn’t that nice?”
The South African-born star, who grew up around some wild creatures, added: “How do you prepare? I’m from South Africa, we hang out with the spiders!”
Still, when asked directly about her fears, Ex- Strictly pro Oti admitted: “Snakes and spiders, they’re not my best friends.”
Aware of the challenges that await, she added with a laugh: “But if I say what I’m scared of, I feel like people will put me in a coffin with some snakes and spiders!”
Oti, known for her dazzling ballroom skills and judging on Dancing On Ice, said her departure from home was “emotional, but good,” with loved ones sending her off.
However, she’s eager to make the most of her time in Australia: “I’ve always wanted to be in this country and see what I can see. Great weather, great people, a good time, conversations.”
As she gears up for the adventure, Oti promised she’ll be a valuable member of the group and pitch in around the camp, adding: “I’m good company, I can help find some sticks!”
The star gave birth to her daughter with husband Marius Iepure, 42, in October 2023.
She previously said of the show: “I am going to use it to my advantage.
“I am going to catch up on a whole year’s sleep!”
But she added: “Of course not seeing my daughter is going to be hard. She is going to be one of my biggest motivators.”
Oti has more than spiders and coffins to worry about next week.
The Sun revealed how the epic Walk The Plank challenge is being replaced with something even more terrifying for this year’s brave celebrities.
Oti has followed Coleen Rooney, Barry McGuigan, and Melvin Odoom who have already landed in Brisbane for the ITV show.
Coleen – who is the highest paid star ever to take part on the show – arrived at the airport in style.
The WAG opted for a £1000 pyjama suit to wear for her long haul flight.
Meanwhile, Barry said he was Down Under to search for his next boxing champion.
The Sun was first to confirm they are part of the 2024 series of Ant and Dec‘s jungle show which kicks off on Sunday on ITV.