David Haye has expressed astonishment that the majority of people disagree with his controversial comments about women, which have been widely labeled as misogynistic. The former professional boxer, 45, stirred significant backlash during his appearance on the I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! All Stars series, filmed in South Africa last September.
The Controversial Comments
While in the camp with celebrities such as Beverley Callard, Harry Redknapp, Scarlett Moffatt, and Gemma Collins, Haye shared his views on his relationship with model Sian Osborne, whom he has dated since 2020. He described her as 'lovely' but claimed she 'has the personality of a proper ugly bird,' coining the term 'ugly duckling syndrome.' According to Haye, 'girls are ugly when they start off, then they get pretty as they get older, but they've still got the personality of when they were ugly.'
These remarks were met with immediate criticism, with viewers and campmates branding him 'sexist' and 'disgusting.' Some viewers even switched off the show in protest.
The Poll Results
Following the dramatic finale, Haye conducted his own research via Instagram, posting a poll asking: 'Am I right or am I wrong?' The results shocked him, as only 13% agreed with his stance, while a staggering 87% deemed him incorrect. In a video shared over the weekend, Haye ranted about people being 'triggered' by his comments. He stated, 'I did a poll yesterday, and I was very shocked at the results. Couldn't believe it. Apparently, I'm wrong. Over 85% of people said I was incorrect. I wasn't expecting that. I thought I was right. I really thought I was right.'
Haye elaborated on his views, arguing that attractive women have it easier in life due to 'pretty privilege.' He said, 'I always thought that girls who happened to win the human lottery and are tall, attractive to the masses, have it easier going through life... But as a general rule, their personalities... People believe their personality, even though they've had all those advantages in life growing up, will be identical to some bird whose parents are short, fat, and ugly.'
He dismissed the backlash, claiming that 'ugly, fat girls need to do more than tall, beautiful girls' and that critics are 'triggered, really, really triggered.' He concluded, 'Over 85% think I'm wrong. That means there are not a lot of sensible people left in the world.'
Social Media Backlash
Users were quick to condemn Haye's remarks. @the_woodland commented, 'The fact that you don't understand why you're wrong is absolutely wild.' @orshilondon demanded, 'Stop talking about women's looks for god sake!' @jonnygiles13 told Haye to 'get a life and move on,' while @glittergirl1963 called him 'vile.' @dee_emmy_bee added, 'Your options are cruel & offensive. Until you are perfect then keep nasty comments to yourself! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.'
I'm A Celebrity Final Drama
The controversy comes amidst reports that Haye and campmate Jimmy Bullard were 'kicked out' of the live final after a heated altercation with Adam Thomas. Hosts Ant and Dec addressed the row between Jimmy and Adam, which stemmed from Jimmy quitting a Bushtucker Trial, potentially compromising Adam's time in camp. Adam stormed over, asking what Jimmy was 'playing at.' During the final, Jimmy accused Adam of 'abusive, aggressive, and intimidating' behavior, including alleged 'C-bombs.' Ant and Dec noted such expletives are 'unbroadcastable.' Adam took responsibility but insisted he has 'nothing but love' for Jimmy.
Haye also weighed in, accusing the show of editing to make Adam look like a 'victim.' Dec shut him down, reminding him, 'David, you weren't even there!' Sinitta walked off stage upset at the chaos. Ant disagreed that the moment was aggressive, stating, 'No, it wasn't. I was there.' Ultimately, Adam won the public vote and became Jungle Legend, but his victory was overshadowed by the feud.
