Scarlette Douglas Names Ruby Wax as the Stand-Out Contestant to Watch on This Year’s I’m A Celebrity

Former I’m A Celebrity star Scarlette Douglas has revealed that Ruby Wax is her top pick as the one to watch in this year’s edition of the hit ITV reality show. Ruby, who has already taken part in several of the show’s early challenges, quickly set herself apart with her fearless approach, even just two episodes into the new series.

The comedian and television personality first impressed fans during the launch episode, which saw her face a house filled with snakes and creepy crawlies—an introduction that immediately thrust her into the spotlight (ITV News). On the following episode, aired Monday, November 17, she went on to tackle the first official Bushtucker Trial of the season, solidifying her reputation as one of the most determined contestants so far.

Scarlette Douglas Shares Why Ruby Wax Has Surprised Her

Speaking exclusively to ED! on behalf of Sky Vegas, Scarlette—who participated in the jungle herself back in 2022—offered her insight into this year’s line-up. When asked which contestant had surprised her the most, either positively or negatively, she named Ruby without hesitation.

“Ruby Wax really surprised me most on the launch show,” Scarlette said. She explained that Ruby’s demeanor shifted dramatically from the moment she entered the show. “When she was at the house as the first one to arrive, you could see she was anxious and nervous. But the minute they had to do the Cockroach Van challenge, she was laser-focused.”

Scarlette continued, “Nothing bothered her. She wasn’t squeamish or screaming, she was just going for it.” Her comments echo the reactions seen from viewers and press, many of whom noted Ruby’s unexpectedly gritty performance during her opening trials (Radio Times).

“I thought she’d be nervous and maybe not that game,” Scarlette added. “But she absolutely went for it. I liked that from Ruby, and I want to keep an eye on her.”

Ruby Wax’s Unflinching Performance in the First Bushtucker Trial

In Monday’s episode, Ruby teamed up with fellow campmate Angry Ginge for the first Bushtucker Trial of the series, and together they managed to deliver an exceptional performance. Viewers were both horrified and impressed as Ruby worked her way through a challenging menu of jungle delicacies.

Her first dish of the night was a witchetty grub topped with a cricket crouton. She then moved on to a cow’s teat served with a duck tongue coulis, before facing a trio of fermented vomit fruits accompanied by a matching jus. Ruby later downed a pig’s testicle paired with a fermented seaweed foam infusion. Finally, in an unforgettable moment, she finished the trial by eating a bull’s penis.

Despite the intensity of the challenge, Ruby remained composed and determined, helping the pair secure ten stars for the camp—enough to guarantee a hearty meal for the entire group. Entertainment outlets praised her commitment, describing her performance as one of the strongest Bushtucker Trial debuts the series has seen in years (Metro UK).

With that level of stamina, Scarlette’s prediction that Ruby may become a major contender in the competition could very well be accurate.

Ruby Faces Backlash from Viewers Despite Strong Performances

While Scarlette is thoroughly impressed, not all viewers are warming to Ruby just yet. During the launch episode on Sunday, November 16, Ruby shared several tongue-in-cheek comments with Angry Ginge, telling him to move out of her light ahead of the challenge. Although the remarks were clearly made in jest, some fans misinterpreted the banter as rudeness.

One viewer posted on X: “Not Ruby being rude to Ginge, we will not stand for it.” Another wrote: “Honestly, I couldn’t tell if Ruby was serious about telling Ginge to move out of the way, but either way, she is gonna be a problem I can already tell. She’s arrogant and rude so far imo.”

Others echoed similar frustrations: “Ruby is coming across really rude,” one user wrote, while another asked, “So, is everyone in agreement to vote Ruby off first?” Several viewers even called for her immediate elimination.

Despite the backlash, entertainment analysts have pointed out that Ruby is known for her dry, sarcastic sense of humour, which may take audiences a little time to adjust to (The Guardian). And historically, many contestants who initially divided opinion later went on to become fan favourites—something that could easily happen again as Ruby continues her journey in the jungle.

Is Ruby Wax Becoming the Unexpected Star of the Series?

Between her fearless approach to challenges and her distinctive humour, Ruby has quickly become one of the most talked-about contestants this season. While her straightforward personality may not appeal to every viewer, her determination, grit, and surprising resilience are winning her growing support.

If Scarlette Douglas’s instincts are correct, Ruby may well be one of the standout stars of the season—whether through triumph in the trials or through sheer entertainment value.

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