Coronation Street alum Claire Sweeney could be preparing for a very different kind of television challenge, with a new report claiming the actress and presenter is in advanced talks to join the 2026 series of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!.
Sweeney, who played Cassie Plummer on Coronation Street, has previously spoken positively about the ITV reality show. The latest report has therefore revived the possibility of seeing the former Weatherfield star swap the cobbles for the Australian jungle.
What has actually been reported?
The key point is that Sweeney’s participation has not been presented as a completed casting announcement. The current report says she is in advanced talks, which means viewers should treat her appearance as possible rather than confirmed until ITV or the programme makes an official announcement.
That distinction matters during the annual build-up to I’m a Celebrity, when potential contestant names regularly circulate before the final line-up is revealed.
Sweeney has, however, previously indicated that the programme appeals to her. In an earlier interview referenced in the latest report, she said she would love to take part and described herself as a big fan of the show.
Why Claire Sweeney would be a familiar face for ITV viewers
Sweeney has a long television career spanning drama, entertainment and presenting. For soap audiences, her recent Coronation Street role as Cassie Plummer made her a particularly recognisable figure on ITV.
A reality-show appearance would put her in a completely different environment. I’m a Celebrity relies heavily on contestants adapting to uncomfortable living conditions, public-voted trials and the social dynamics of camp. Performers who are familiar to viewers in scripted roles can therefore reveal a different side of their personalities.
That crossover is one reason soap stars have historically been natural candidates for reality television. They arrive with an existing audience, but the format gives viewers a chance to see the person rather than the character.
The 2026 line-up is beginning to attract attention
The same report also links broadcaster and Loose Women panellist Mariella Frostrup with the forthcoming series, again describing talks rather than presenting her involvement as officially confirmed.
As the launch approaches, speculation around the cast is likely to intensify. Until ITV releases its confirmed line-up, individual reports are best read as indications of negotiations rather than guarantees that a celebrity will ultimately enter camp.
From Weatherfield to the jungle?
If a deal is completed, Sweeney would bring a combination of soap recognition and extensive live-entertainment experience to the programme. That could make her an interesting campmate, particularly for viewers who followed Cassie’s turbulent time in Weatherfield.
For now, though, the story remains at the talks stage. The prospect of a Coronation Street alum heading to Australia is enough to generate interest, but the next meaningful development will be confirmation from the programme itself.
Until then, Claire Sweeney is a name to watch as the 2026 I’m a Celebrity cast takes shape.