Adam Thomas opens up on I’m A Celebrity struggles

Adam Thomas has admitted that David Haye “broke” him during his time on I’m A Celebrity… South Africa.

The show – currently airing on ITV but pre-recorded last year – features a group of memorable former contestants competing to be crowned an I’m A Celebrity Legend.

In last week’s episodes, former Emmerdale star Thomas, 37, was repeatedly targeted by ex-boxer Haye, 45, for his decision to break the rules and share sweet treats with the rest of the group.

The attacks left Thomas notably withdrawn and led to accusations of bullying from viewers, as well as drawing concern from other celebrities in the camp.

Thomas, who has previously disclosed that he suffers from arthritis, posted a picture of him looking downbeat during his time on the show to Instagram alongside a lengthy message.

He wrote: “Not going to lie, this picture breaks my heart, as I know on the inside what I was dealing with and truth be told I thought it was all my fault. I now know that’s not the reality… My time in I’m a Celebrity South Africa was one of the toughest things I’ve ever been through, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

“Watching it back hasn’t been easy at all. There were moments I felt pushed to my absolute limit, and if I’m honest, times I didn’t even recognise myself. Living with arthritis is something I don’t really talk about, as much as I should do… but in there it really took its toll. My biggest fight was pretending to put on a brave face and trying to hide the pain! that can be exhausting within itself. There were days my body just didn’t want to keep going, but I did.

“I won’t sit here and say I handled everything perfectly, because I didn’t. I wish I spoke up for myself sooner. I wish I stood my ground instead of trying to keep the peace, but I’ve learned that being kind doesn’t mean being weak, and sometimes it takes going through tough moments to find your voice.

“Since coming out, I’ve taken time to process everything, and I’m in a much better place now. I let go of the anger, had the conversations I needed to have, and chose peace. What I’m most proud of, is at times like this I wanted to walk, I wanted to quit but I didn’t . Even when I wanted to walk away, even when it felt like too much, I never give up! and that means everything to me.

“He broke me in there, he pushed me to my limits, and I’ve told David this and he’s apologised and that’s that! I’ve moved on now, am not one to hold a grudge.

“But thank you for all your lovely messages and all the kind words ❤️ We all face people and situations that try to break us, but sometimes those moments are what rebuild you stronger than ever. Be kind.”

I’m A Celebrity… South Africa continues tonight at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX.