The jungle drums are beating, and the second celebrity heading into television’s most unforgiving camp has officially touched down. Emmerdale favourite

Lisa Riley has arrived in Australia, confirming weeks of speculation and sending fans of the long-running ITV soap into a frenzy. ITV is poised to unveil the full cast

in the coming days, but Riley’s appearance at Brisbane Airport has effectively sealed her status as one of this year’s headline names. And in true Dingle fashion,

she didn’t waste a moment before declaring she’s ready for whatever the wilderness throws at her.

“I am a Dingle,” she announced with characteristic fire. “I can cope with anything. I’m from the north — we’re made of tough skin.”

For viewers who have adored her as Mandy Dingle, the bold statement felt less like bravado and more like a promise.

Riley, now 49, has history with the franchise and the country. She fondly recalled previous specials filmed Down Under and suggested this trip feels like unfinished business. There was laughter, confidence, and perhaps a hint of nerves beneath the surface — because everyone knows the Australian jungle has a way of humbling even the most fearless personalities.

Still, Riley insists she’s prepared. Creepy crawlies? She’s dealt with worse. Farm life has given her grit, she says, and mucking in is simply part of the job. Whether that resilience will hold when faced with sky-high trials, stomach-churning meals, and weeks cut off from the outside world is another matter entirely.

If Riley brings heart, humour, and theatrical flair to camp, producers will be delighted. She is warm, outspoken, and carries with her a fiercely loyal fanbase. Her presence alone guarantees emotional moments, big laughs, and likely more than one tearful confession by the fire.

But she won’t be facing the experience alone.

Earlier the same day, Kelly Brook also landed in Australia, radiating excitement while playfully dodging questions about jungle horrors. With a wink, she joked about visiting distant relatives and dreaming of surfboards, koalas, and sunshine rather than bushtucker trials.

Her light-hearted approach couldn’t be more different from Riley’s warrior stance — and that contrast could prove television gold once they share camp.

A mix of musicians, actors, sports stars, and internet personalities are expected to follow. Names linked to the lineup include Martin Kemp, YouTube star Angry Ginge, Shona McGarty, comedian Ruby Wax, presenter Alex Scott, and reality royalty Jack Osbourne. Further whispers suggest that Eddie Kadi, rapper H from Steps, and broadcaster Vogue Williams could also be making the long journey south.

ITV, however, is keeping its cards close to its chest. Tradition dictates that at least a couple of famous faces will arrive late, detonating fresh drama once alliances have already formed. For a milestone year, secrecy is part of the spectacle.

And make no mistake — this is a milestone. The upcoming season marks the 25th series, and insiders say producers are determined to make it unforgettable. Bigger challenges. Tougher twists. Emotional surprises designed to push campmates further than ever before.

Front and centre, of course, will be the inimitable duo Ant & Dec, returning to guide viewers through every terrifying trial and triumphant moment. Their chemistry remains one of the show’s most beloved ingredients, and they understand exactly how to balance mischief with compassion when celebrities hit their limits.

For Riley, the timing feels significant. After years of commanding storylines in the Dales, stepping into the jungle represents both a professional risk and a thrilling opportunity. Audiences who know Mandy’s bravado may discover new layers — vulnerability, homesickness, quiet strength in the dark.

Reality television has a way of rewriting public perception. Heroes emerge. Reputations wobble. Unexpected friendships bloom under pressure.

What is certain is that Riley won’t fade into the background. She is too vibrant, too quick with a one-liner, too emotionally open to simply blend in. Whether she becomes camp leader, chief morale booster, or resident agony aunt, she will be central.

And back in the village she calls home on screen, fans will be watching with pride. A Dingle in the jungle isn’t just casting — it’s destiny.

As Australia prepares to welcome its newest batch of nervous arrivals, anticipation is surging. Helicopters, harnesses, and hunger await. Comfort will be stripped away, leaving only character.

Lisa Riley says she’s ready.

Very soon, we’ll find out if even a Dingle can be prepared for this.