I'm a Celebrity: Danny Jones emotional about Barry McGuigan

But on Thursday's episode (December 4), ITV fans saw Danny open up about his feelings towards Barry, admitting he has replaced the "fatherly figure" in his life.

Speaking to former Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse, he explained: “My dad, he doesn’t speak to me.”

Danny added: “It’s just weird because I don’t feel I’ve really healed with it maybe."

‘I’m discovering that every time I talk about it, it’s getting a little bit easier’ ???? #ImACeleb pic.twitter.com/UAQrP5qZa8

— I'm A Celebrity... (@imacelebrity) December 5, 2024

Discussing his time in therapy, the 38-year-old said: "I did but you can go to therapy, but you still crave your dad and that’s what’s hard. That’s why I get so much satisfaction out of Barry."

Later, Oti shared in the Bush Telegraph: "I know that Danny and Barry’s relationship is very special, they’ve come to a point where they love each other and they need each other now.

“It’s nice to know that not only are you going to leave with a brilliant experience, but you’re going to leave here with friends and family for life."

Danny also recalled some memories with his dad, telling Oti: "He was amazing yeah, we went to see Bolton Wanderers every weekend, got a Maccy Ds before, I’ve got great memories.

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“He was a hugger, he was a kisser and then when he left us, that’s when I had to grow up real fast, I bought my mum’s homes" target="_blank">house.

“I was 18 years old, I bought myself a flat in London and I bought my mum’s house, and I put my sister through university."

The pop star also appeared in the Bush Telegraph and said: "I think the world of Barry, he’s amazing and we’ve been through this whole experience together.

“It’s just nice having someone older than you that does replace that kind of fatherly figure. Just to put his arm around you and have your back. I’ve not had that feeling for a while.”

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Reacting to Danny and Oti's heartfelt conversation, one I'm a Celebrity viewer posted on X: "Aww Danny, I’m so glad he has Barry. They’re absolutely adorable."

Another added: "My heart breaks for Danny."

This fan wrote: "barry and danny oh my god i hope they stay talking."

I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! continues nightly at 9pm on ITV1, STV and ITVX.