David Haye is reportedly preparing to sue ITV for up to £10,000,000, alleging that the channel caused 'irreparable brand damage' following his appearance on I'm A Celebrity South Africa. The former boxer has instructed lawyers to send a letter to ITV demanding a full investigation into the show's editing, which he claims was deliberately manipulated to portray him as the 'pantomime villain'.
Allegations of Unfair Editing
The 45-year-old athlete faced accusations of bullying Waterloo Road star Adam Thomas, who ultimately won the series during Friday's chaotic live final. Haye publicly stated during the broadcast that Thomas was not a 'worthy winner'. He also drew criticism for his views on women, including his controversial 'ugly duckling' theory, which was branded sexist by campmate Beverley Callard.
A source told The Sun: 'David is absolutely gung-ho about all of this – he is incandescent with rage about how the whole series has been handled and feels he's being made a scapegoat by ITV.'
Impact on Career and Earnings
Haye reportedly believes the editing made him appear misogynistic, aggressive, and a bully, while he insists he is none of these. He claims to have suffered trolling as a result. The source cited examples such as the Gemma Collins 'fat-shaming' moment, where clever editing and snide eye-rolls made his remark seem damning. Haye's lawyers will review the series meticulously to find further evidence.
The insider added: 'He is going for damages as a result of the 'propaganda' aired against him to recover lost earnings, which lawyers believe could total up to £10 million.' Haye was previously in talks with Netflix for a show, which have now stalled, and brand work has reportedly been paused. He is thought to have instructed the £500-an-hour legal firm Gatehouse Chambers.
The Gemma Collins Incident
During an uncomfortable moment with Gemma Collins, she offered a motivational talk before a trial, saying: 'We all need to eat tonight. You know what I'm like without food.' Haye then chimed in: 'You need to eat? Where was you last night? And where was I last night. What did I eat last night?' After a tense pause, Gemma replied: 'Do you know what? Sometimes, eating a bit of humble pie makes us stronger and better as people.' Haye agreed, and Gemma smiled, adding: 'I know you're gonna bring it back today.'
Jimmy Bullard's Legal Threats
Haye also backed Jimmy Bullard during the finale, demanding that Bullard's full row with Adam Thomas be aired. Bullard accused ITV's edit of not giving a fair representation of their argument. However, host Ant McPartlin rejected that characterization, stating that Thomas's language had been 'un-broadcastable' due to his use of C-bombs. Bullard described Thomas's conduct as 'abusive, aggressive and intimidating' nine times, a key phrase in the celebrities' contracts. He too is reportedly pursuing legal action against ITV.
Haye's Social Media Poll
On Tuesday night, Haye shared a video on Instagram, asking followers whether they thought he was a bully based on the show. Initially, 52% said no, leading him to comment: 'At least half the people have some sense!' Two hours later, when 77% said yes, he added: 'So much for the sensible people!! Is the world truly that full of sensitive morons?!?'
Metro has contacted representatives for David Haye and ITV for comment.
