What Do You Get for Winning I’m a Celebrity? The Surprising Truth About the Prize

Introduction: The Coveted Crown Without the Cash

When Danny Jones was crowned the 2024 King of the Jungle on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! on 8 December, viewers may have wondered what tangible rewards awaited him. Unlike many reality competition shows that offer substantial cash prizes, I’m a Celebrity takes a decidedly different approach. Understanding what winners actually receive reveals an interesting aspect of why celebrities participate in this beloved ITV programme, and what truly motivates them through weeks of Bushtucker Trials and jungle life.

What the Winner Actually Receives

The winner is crowned King or Queen of the Jungle and receives a flower crown and wooden sceptre during the winning ceremony. However, the reality of these prizes is less glamorous than it appears. The iconic winning items have to be returned when the show stops filming, meaning winners don’t even get to keep their ceremonial prizes. Danny Jones himself confirmed this disappointing detail, stating he had to give the sceptre back and had nothing physical to show for his victory.

No Cash Prize for the Champion

Unlike other competitions such as Big Brother and The Traitors, I’m a Celebrity does not award its winner any money for coming in the top spot. Instead, celebrities are paid a fee for taking part, which is the only thing of monetary value the cast receives. There is no prize money for being crowned king or queen of the jungle, although the increase in name awareness and spotlight can prove quite lucrative after they return home.

The Real Value of Winning

Whilst the lack of a cash prize or permanent trophy may seem surprising, the true reward lies elsewhere. Winners get to wear the crown and hold the sceptre, plus they receive bragging rights over their campmates and a big moment in the spotlight. The enhanced public profile and career opportunities that follow a jungle victory often prove far more valuable than any one-off prize payment, making the title itself the ultimate prize for participating celebrities.