Gemma Collins has revealed she felt forced to step in and “protect” fellow campmate Adam Thomas from David Haye’s harsh comments during the latest series of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! All Stars in South Africa. The outspoken reality star opened up on the spin-off show I’m A Celebrity: Unpacked, admitting there were moments in the jungle where she had to play peacekeeper to prevent tensions from exploding.

The drama unfolded around a Bushtucker trial called “Termite Terror.” Adam Thomas, who was feeling unwell at the time, declined to take part and suggested that Ashley Roberts — who had already volunteered and whose birthday it was — should do the trial instead. Former heavyweight boxer David Haye responded dismissively with “Who gives a s***” and later branded Adam “useless,” adding that he “doesn’t like men like that.” The comments were made within earshot of Adam and other celebrities, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere in camp.

Viewers quickly took to social media, accusing Haye of bullying rather than light-hearted banter. Many described the scenes as “hard to watch,” noting that Adam appeared to laugh it off but seemed visibly affected. One fan commented: “David Haye, what a bully. Times like this he should be chucked out.” Another added: “That was not banter, that was bullying. You could see through Adam’s ‘laughter’… that was him trying to disguise it.”

Gemma Collins, known for her larger-than-life “GC” persona, chose a more measured approach while in the jungle. On Unpacked, she explained: “There was times where I had to protect Adam in there. If I was going full GC mode on David Haye, and a lot of them, then it would’ve been a disaster in there but I had to remain calm and composed.”

She continued: “I think David Haye might have seen a weakness in Adam… Well, basically, I knew if it was ever gonna get too bad I would be taking David on. You know, bring on the heavyweight champion fighting the world. Because if I feel that something’s too much, I’m not afraid to step up.”

Gemma described using subtle body language to defuse the situation, stretching her arms out as a non-verbal signal to the group that enough was enough, without launching into a full confrontation. She stressed that she was there as her authentic self rather than performing for the cameras, choosing restraint to keep the camp harmonious.

The incident is the latest in a series of clashes involving Haye. Earlier in the series, he reportedly gave Gemma a “dirty look” after another disagreement, and fans had already criticised him for comments perceived as fat-shaming towards the TOWIE star. Beverley Callard was also seen urging Haye to show more “sympathy and empathy” towards Adam during the trial row.

Adam Thomas, best known for his roles in Coronation Street and Emmerdale, has since spoken about the emotional toll. In a separate interview, he admitted that the experience with Haye left him feeling “broken,” especially as he was already battling a personal struggle with arthritis. He described having to put on a brave face while dealing with both physical pain and the camp dynamics.

Gemma’s protective stance has earned praise from viewers, with many calling her an “incredible inspiration” and applauding her for staying composed under pressure. One supporter wrote: “Love her she’s fabulous. Well done Gemma.” Her willingness to defend a friend without turning the jungle into a battlefield has been highlighted as a mature move from someone often portrayed as outspoken and dramatic.

Reality TV shows like I’m A Celebrity thrive on conflict, but when banter crosses into perceived bullying, it sparks fierce debate among audiences. This series has already seen heightened scrutiny, with hosts Ant and Dec reportedly addressing the Haye-Thomas tension in rare on-air comments. The format places celebrities in extreme conditions — hunger, discomfort, and high-pressure trials — which can amplify small frictions into major storylines.

For Gemma Collins, the experience appears to have reinforced her growth. She has repeatedly emphasised that she is no longer interested in performative drama, instead focusing on genuine connections and standing up for what she believes is right. Her friendship with Adam Thomas seemed to provide mutual support, with the pair often seen confiding in each other during tougher moments.

David Haye, a decorated former boxer known for his confident and sometimes blunt personality, has defended his straightforward style in the past. However, the repeated accusations of bullying have led some fans to call for his removal from the show, arguing that certain behaviours have no place in the camp environment.

The South Africa All Stars edition has delivered plenty of memorable moments, from emotional breakdowns to humorous trials, but the Haye-Thomas-Gemma dynamic has become one of the most talked-about arcs. Gemma’s revelation on Unpacked has given audiences fresh insight into what really went on behind the scenes, painting her as a quiet guardian rather than the fiery diva some expected.

As the series continues, viewers remain glued to see whether further confrontations arise or if Gemma’s calm intervention helped maintain peace. In the high-stakes world of jungle life, where every word and gesture is captured on camera, having someone willing to “protect” a campmate without causing chaos has resonated strongly with the audience.

Ultimately, Gemma Collins’ story highlights a common reality TV dilemma: how to stay true to yourself while navigating group dynamics under constant observation. Her decision to stretch her arms out instead of “biting heads off” shows a level of self-awareness that many have admired. Whether Haye’s comments were tough love or unnecessary harshness continues to divide opinion, but Gemma’s protective instincts have clearly won her plenty of new fans.

In the end, I’m A Celebrity remains a pressure cooker that reveals true character. Gemma stepping up for Adam Thomas without escalating into full “GC mode” may be one of the most telling moments of the series — proof that sometimes the strongest protection comes not from loud confrontation, but from composed, quiet strength.