Rita Simons is reportedly in talks to take part in ‘I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’.
The former ‘EastEnders’ star – who was known for playing Roxy Mitchell in the long-running show – has been keeping herself busy with musical theatre since she was axed from the soap two years ago, but it looks like she’s ready for a different type of television challenge now as she’s being lined up to compete in this year’s creepy crawly series.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Rita was one of the most recognisable faces in soap before her character was tragically axed. She is yet to venture into the world of reality TV so it will be a massive coup for ITV to secure her."
The 41-year-old actress has made no secret of the fact she suffers from anxiety, OCD and insomnia and, although bosses make contestants go through an intense mental health assessment before they’re allowed in the jungle, producers think the show will be good for her because it’ll give her time away from her busy lifestyle and help relaunch her career.
The insider explained: "Obviously it will be hard for Rita to live in the jungle with her health problems but she’s hoping that some time away from her hectic lifestyle will help and that it will also provide a career boost and hopefully lead to her landing another big TV part."
The new series of ‘I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’, which will be hosted by Declan Donnelly and Holly Willoughby this year – will return to screens in November.
The names linked to this year’s line up include Kate Garraway, Fleur East and Nadiya Hussain after she recently confirmed she had turned down rival ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
A representative for ITV said: "Any names suggested are just speculation at this stage."