Everything you need to know about our radio presenter Sam Thompson
Hear him on Hits Radio!
Sam Thompson is truly the prince of reality TV, having started out his career on Made In Chelsea before taking part in the likes of Celebrity Big Brother and Celebs Go Dating - before, of course, the Hits Radio presenter went and WON I'm A Celeb 2023!
Outside of the jungle, Sam hosts The Hits Radio Evening Show every Monday - Thursday, and The Hits UK Chart every Sunday from 4pm. To help you get to know Sam better, we've gathered up everything you could possibly need to know about the 32-year-old, from which TWO Guinness World Records he broke, his upcoming I'm A Celeb spin-off show, and even his feature in the recent highest-grossing animated film of all time...
Who is Sam Thompson?
Sam Thompson is a well-loved reality TV star and a presenter on Hits Radio.
Sam first found fame when he appeared on E4 reality show Made In Chelsea, joining the cast in 2013 alongside his sister and established cast member Louise Thompson, also acting as best friend Jamie Laing's intern for his hugely successful Candy Kittens business.
He also won the 2023 series of I'm A Celeb.
Where's he from?
Sam was brought up in Leafy in West London. He was educated at private school Bradfield College growing up, which is located in the English county of Berkshire.
What is his real name?
Sam Thompson is Sam's real name! But he does a have a pretty cool middle name.
His full name is Samuel Robert De Courcy Thompson.
How old is Sam?
Sam Thompson was born on 2nd August 1992, meaning he is currently 32-years-old.
Sam's girlfriend Zara McDermott paid tribute to his on his 32nd, sharing a photo of Sam with his balloons to her Instagram Story. She wrote: 'happy birthday Goose'.
Sam also posted on his own account for his 32nd birthday, sharing photos of a meal out with his nearest and dearest.
He told fans: 'It was my birthday today. 32 years old! Spending it with my nearest and dearest 🥹❤️ I’m not very good at soppy captions, but I just wanted to say how grateful I am for this year and to all of you. I haven’t stopped smiling! You are my family. Here’s to another year! Love you ❤️❤️❤️'. (sic)
When is Sam on Hits Radio?
Having previously hosted a show on Sunday mornings, Sam now presents an exciting show called The Hits Radio Evening Show with Sam Thompson
Sam first joined us in February 2022, and speaking about joining the station, Sam said: "I’m super-excited about joining… The music is insane and I can’t wait to bring my energy to listeners’ Sunday morning routines!! It’s going to be one hell of a ride."
From 9th January 2023, Sam began hosting his evening show. He's regularly joined by some of the world's biggest stars, and plays the biggest hits and the biggest throwbacks.
Before the show started, Sam commented: "What a start to 2023! I cannot wait to bring all my favourite new artists, tunes and entertainment picks to Hits listeners across the UK – and to finally have a lie-in on a Sunday morning! From January 9th join me from 7pm every Monday to Thursday for great music, great gossip – just general all-round greatness. Weeknights are the new weekends!"
Sam is also the host of The Hits UK Chart Show, bringing you the biggest hits every Sunday from 4pm as he counts down the UK's hottest new music.
Sam said: ‘I cannot believe that I am going to be revealing the Number One to the nation every Sunday night! It is an actual dream come true to be hosting the Chart Show and I cannot wait to get started. Who’s going to be my first Number One?! Make sure you’re listening this Sunday to find out.’
Sam's bromance with Lewis Capaldi
Sam joined us backstage at Hits Live 2022 to fanboy over Lewis Capaldi - and, to be fair, who wouldn't?! He played a game of The Biggest Hit with the Scottish singer...
...Got a lovely big hug with him...
...And even stripped during his set! 😳
See what else Sam got up to at Hits Live:
Sam Thompson's Guinness World Records
As fans of Sam may well have realised, he's not shy when it comes to hugging it out with his nearest and dearest... And anyone else, for that matter. Gaining himself a rather sweet reputation of being an avid fan of hugging, it may come as no surprise to you that he is in fact now the proud holder of the Guinness World Record for the ‘most hugs given in one minute’.
Brightening up Blue Monday on 15th January 2024, Sam broke the record on This Morning, being cheered on in the studio by his I'm A Celeb co-star and This Morning host Josie Gibson, and Dermot O'Leary, with it taking him two attempts to gain the gong.
Not content with just one Guinness World Record, Sam made a second attempt in October 2024 — this time to hit more than 25 conkers in 60 seconds live on This Morning. Yet again, the Hits Radio presenter was successful, smashing the total with 31 conkers in the same timeframe.
In true Sam style, it wasn't without a little chaos — as Sam broke his mic while celebrating the win, with a...hug!
How many hugs did Sam give to beat the world record?
Well, we're glad you asked. Sam visited the 'most miserable town in the UK’ to spread some January joy, heading to the streets of Shoreham-By-Sea to attempt to beat the previous record of 87 hugs in 60 seconds.
Successful in his endeavours, Sam managed to complete an impressive 88 huge in a minute, winning over the Guinness World Record title. The official adjudicator watching over, Joanne Brent from the Guinness World Record, revealed: "It is such a fast paced record to evaluate so thank you for giving me a little bit of time there.
"I had to review some video evidence just to double check the count and... For the most hugs given in a minute by an individual, with the record to beat of 87, you achieved 88!"
Who is he dating?
Sam is currently dating former Love Island star Zara McDermott, after the pair first met when Zara slid into Sam's DMs on Instagram.
It wasn't until May 2019 that the pair went official with their romance, sharing the most loved-up snaps together on social media.
However, things took a sour turn in 2020 when Zara appeared on Celebrity X Factor and later admitted on Instagram to cheating on Sam. After months of trying to win back her man, through public declarations of love and letters, it had looked like things were over for the two, after Sam refused to forgive Zara for her actions.
By the end of the series, Sam found it in his heart to forgive Zara, with Zara later getting a moon and stars tattoo in tribute to Sam on her foot. Since then, the pair have been seriously smitten, moving in together and enjoying a number of holidays together.
In December 2022, to mark Zara's 26th birthday Sam shared an adorable montage video with clips of the pair and wrote a heartfelt message. He said: 'I’m never really that serious on here but in all honesty, I can’t imagine life without her.
'zara_mcdermott you are the most special, precious shining star in this world I am so grateful for you, and how you make me the best version of myself. Happy birthday and thank you for putting up with me 😂❤️❤️ ps….she’s still got that suitcase 😂'.
To which Zara replied: 'Love you forever ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️'.
Sam and Zara took on the 'Try Not To Laugh' challenge in March 2023, for Amazon as part of the Comic Relief campaign. After the pair took it in turns to try and make each other laugh, whilst holding water in their mouths, Sam gushed over his wonderful girlfriend, citing "laugher" as the key to their relationship.
He said: "It's not that Zara is funnier than me - I think I'm just better at laughing! We love doing our prank videos together but this was a good test at delivering a punchline, which is not always easy and I still maintain I've got that bit down, even with my dad jokes.
"I'm pretty sure I'll be in the running to be one of the Amazon Alexa joke tellers next year, when they hear the delivery of that bear paws joke. Comedy gold. Laughter is the key to our relationship - how do you think a guy like me ended up with a Zara?"
In August 2024, Sam and Zara headed off on holiday together, sharing a selfie from a luxury location.
Are they engaged?
No, Sam and Zara are not engaged!
However, in December 2022, Sam tricked some of his Instagram followers into thinking he'd popped the question to Zara, by posting a video with the caption: 'SHE SAID YES'.
Although a lot of fans congratulated the pair, if you watch the video to the end, you'll know Sam was just joking around, and he was actually referring to Zara saying yes to a TikTok video.
Sam also had EVERYBODY talking back in 2021 when he enjoyed a romantic holiday to the Maldives with his girlfriend Zara McDermott.
Sharing a photo of the pair on the beach with a very romantic-looking setting behind them, Sam wrote on Instagram: 'I love you so much @zara_mcdermott ❤️ so lucky to have such a strong beautiful woman by my side every single day. You are truly one in a million 💃🏼'.
Many thought it was an engagement post, but it turns out Sam was just being all lovey-dovey. Aww!
Rumours were again rife in March 2024, when the pair jetted off to Dubai for a holiday together.
After no engagement took place, Sam later spoke about the speculation during a chat with OK! Magazine, where he said: "Zara just really wanted to get away so it wasn’t like one of those really special on-one-knee places. I probably wouldn’t do it in Dubai anyway to be fair.
"But it was an amazing trip. I don’t know if Zara can say the same as I got insomnia for the first three nights and Zara got really annoyed at me. One day I shall be getting down on one knee to propose. Marriage is on the cards at some point, yes."
Who is Sam Thompson's sister?
Sam Thompson is the younger brother of fellow reality star Louise Thompson, who has featured on Made In Chelsea since the second series in 2011.
As documented on the show, Sam previously moved into Louise's flat and the pair have a very close relationship, with Sam also being good friends with Louise's fiancé Ryan Libbey.
At the start of 2022, Sam publicly expressed his love for his big sister after she 'nearly died' during the birth of her son Leo-Hunter.
Sam wrote on Instagram: '2021 has been a year of many highs and many lows. But nearly losing my sister was one of the toughest things I’ve ever had to deal with. The hardest situations teach the biggest lessons, and I learnt to never take any day for granted ever again.
'To see all the pain she has suffered, and all the setbacks she has faced, and to see her still smiling at the end of it just shows how incredible of a woman she is. Just to see you put on a dress for the first time in months is everything I could have asked for and more.
'I am so grateful for you and your strength @louise.thompson and I promise 2022 will be your year!! And I will be there to p-ss you off every step of the way ❤️'. (sic)
Did Sam take part in Soccer Aid?
He did! On Tuesday 19th March 2024 it was confirmed that Sam would be making his Soccer Aid debut for 2024, as the charity football match hit Stamford Bridge on Sunday 9th June.
Sam, who is a huge Chelsea fan, said at the time: "From watching Chelsea in the stands throughout my life, to walking out at Stamford Bridge and playing in front of thousands of fans! As pretty much everyone knows, I am a massive Chelsea fan, so I can’t quite believe this is actually happening. I know everyone must say this – but this is believe this is actually happening. I know everyone must say this – but this is my actual dream coming true!
"I live around the corner from Stamford Bridge and have been to so many Chelsea games over the years, watching my heroes – I can’t quite believe I’m about to play with some of them. I mean Frank Lampard is a living legend and he’s my manager – it’s insane!
"As you all know, I’m a pretty excitable character but this has put me on a new level! This is a brilliant family day out which I am honoured to be part of. So, buy your tickets and come support Soccer Aid for UNICEF on Sunday 9th June."
Sam was in Frank Lampard's starting 11 for the game on Sunday 9th June, playing left wing alongside the likes of Jill Scott, Gary Cahill, Joe Cole, Jack Wilshire and Ellen White.
Despite not scoring, Sam played very well, with England grabbing a 6-3 victory against the Rest of the World to lift the trophy for the first time since 2018.
Taking to Instagram after the game, Sam shared a photo of himself on the pitch with the words: 'What a dream last night was'.
Posting another snap of himself in his England kit, Sam then wrote: 'Never been so proud. Thank you so much Soccer Aid and thank you all so much. This year has been the best year of my life'.
Sam's girlfriend Zara McDermott was in the crowd for the match, alongside his sister Louise and mum Karen, and she made the cutest video for him.
Sharing the video onto his Instagram account, Sam told fans: 'My girlfriend made me this video for memories and I wanted to share it… 🥺I still cannot believe what happened yesterday. I got to play football on the very pitch that I would go to with my dad. To play in front of my family aswell….I don’t think I will ever be able to get over it!!!!
'Look at @louise.thompson shouting 😂 Thank you to @socceraid for allowing me to be a part of such a special game for the most incredible cause @unicef_uk . I am truly honoured!!! We raised 15 million baby!!'. (sic)
Was he on Made In Chelsea?
He sure was! Sam made his debut on E4 reality star Made In Chelsea in 2013. He's since appeared in 163 episodes of the popular show, being a fan favourite!
Sam left Made In Chelsea in 2018, after admitting he found it a struggle to film alongside his ex-girlfriend Sophie Habboo (Habbs) at the time.
Although Sam returned to the cast in 2019, he left the show again after series 21 in 2021. All together he appeared in 174 episodes.
Check out what all of the original Made In Chelsea cast are up to now.
Sam Thompson on Loose Women & Men
Sam joined the Loose Women & Men panel, appearing alongside Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe, and Loose Women Kaye Adams and Nadia Sawalha on 16th February 2024.
Speaking about his excitement for the special episode, Sam said: "Let's go Loose Women and Men! I can't wait to join the show for the first time and to get stuck into lots of conversations with the rest of the panel.
"As well as sharing my view point on what's been going on in the news, I'll also be chatting more about my ADHD and what life looks like since I've had an official diagnosis. I know Nadia has ADHD too, so I'm really looking forward to speaking with her about it. As a subject that's naturally close to both of our hearts, what better week to be discussing it than around Valentine's!"
Which other TV shows has he been on?
Sam has appeared on a number of TV shows since he's been in the public eye, from reality shows to quiz, and even some chat shows! Most recently, Sam WON I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, taking the Jungle crown for the 2023 series.
For the 2024 series, it was announced that Sam, along with Joel Dommett and Kemi Rodgers would be hosting I'm A Celeb: Unpacked - a brand new spin-off show set to follow in the footsteps of I'm A Celeb: Extra Camp, which was shelved by bosses in 2020. The show will air every night on ITV2/STV2 immediately after the main show.
Check out the most memorable TV Shows below:
Made In Chelsea
Sam made his debut on E4 reality show in 2013, acting as Jamie Laing's intern at the time. Sam was later given more air time in the show and went on to become one of the most popular stars, appearing in over 160 episodes to date.
Despite briefly leaving the show in 2018, Sam returned to the cast just one year later.
Celebrity Big Brother
Sam was a fan favourite when he appeared on the 20th series of Celebrity Big Brother in 2013.
Sam made it all the way to the final, finishing in third place behind Amelia Lily and eventual winner Sarah Harding.
Celebs Go Dating
Sam has appeared on E4 reality show Celebs Go Dating not once, not twice, but THREE times, in 2018, 2019 and 2020.
Luckily, Sam managed to make up with his girlfriend Zara McDermott, so let's hope he won't be making any further appearance on the show to find love.
Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins
Sam was put through his paces by Ant Middleton and co in 2019, when he signed up for gruelling show Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins in order to raise money for Stand Up To Cancer.
Celebrity Coach Trip
Sam joined his friend James Dunmore to appear on Celebrity Coach Trip in 2019 for the special Road to Benidorm series.
Unfortunately, the pair were the first to be eliminated.
The Celebrity Circle
Sam took part in the celeb version of Channel 4 show The Circle in 2021, alongside his best mate, TOWIE star Pete Wicks.
The lads tried to catfish their fellow contestants into thinking they were actual Countdown presenter Rachel Riley.
Winter Love Island
Sam is hosting Love Island's official podcast, Love Island: The Morning After alongside former contestant Indiyah Pollock. He said of joining the show: "It feels like I'm with my family and we're all in it together and I really like it. We're all massive fans of the show and it's really, really nice." Sam will also appear as a regular panellist on Love Island: Aftersun.
Sam Thompson: Is This ADHD?
In a documentary which aired on E4 in 2023, we followed Sam as he made the decision to get tested for ADHD, and explored what a possible diagnosis might mean for him. For years, his girlfriend Zara, as well as friends and family, told him he exhibits signs of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), with Sam finally deciding to get tested as he approached his 30th birthday.
The documentary saw a rawer side of Sam, as his behaviour is placed 'under a microscope'. With him widely known for his larger-than-life and creative personality, we see him question whether medication could change the persona he's built his career on.
I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!
In November 2023 it was announced that Sam Thompson would be entering the jungle for the 2023 series of I'm A Celebrity along with 11 other celebrities. Sam WON the series, going up against boxing legend Tony Bellew and Nigel Farage in the final and winning the majority of votes to become the latest winner of the show.
Loose Women & Men
Sam made his debut on the Loose Women & Men panel on 16th February 2024, appearing alongside Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe, and Loose Women Kaye Adams and Nadia Sawalha.
In addition to discussing the hottest topics of the day, Sam and Nadia will also open up about their experiences of living with ADHD.
Inside Out 2
Sam voiced a character in the UK version of popular Pixar film Inside Out 2! The film is a sequel to the 2015 animated flick, and following its release on 14th June 2024, was pegged the biggest movie of the year! Not only that, but it was announced in July of that year that it had become the highest-grossing animated film of all time GLOBALLY. Sam voiced Security Man Sam - a "character who finds himself on a chase with everyone's favourite emotions."
Of joining the cast, Sam said: "Having watched Pixar films since I was a kid, it's a dream come true to join the voice cast of Inside Out 2. The film nods to the rollercoaster of emotions growing up and what a wild ride your teenage years can be. I for one can't wait to see my family's reaction to hearing my voice on the big screen." Following the release, Sam spoke of how he was a fan of the original film, saying that taking part was a "no brainer", continuing: "It's such a bucket list thing, to be able to go in and do something that all of these amazing people (have done)".
Sam has also appeared on shows such as Apocalypse Wow, Take off with Bradley and Holly, Tipping Point: Lucky Stars and Hey Tracey!
Sam Thompson on I'm A Celeb
As mentioned above, Sam Thompson won the 2023 series of I'm A Celeb! The Hits Radio presenter took to social media to announce the exciting news ahead of the launch show, saying: '✨The rumours were true ✨ I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be joining the adventure of a lifetime on #ImACeleb 🐍🕷️Tune into @itv every night from Sunday 19th November to see how I get on… wish me luck! 😱🇦🇺'. (sic)
Check out Sam's best bits on I'm A Celeb:
Sam gets announced for I'm A Celeb
After weeks of rumours, Sam was officially confirmed as a contestant on the 2023 series on Monday 13th November!
Taking to social media after the news was made public, Sam said: '✨The rumours were true ✨ I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be joining the adventure of a lifetime on #ImACeleb 🐍🕷️Tune into @itv every night from Sunday 19th November to see how I get on… wish me luck! 😱'.
Sam gets a send off from his girlfriend Zara McDermott
After Sam supported his girlfriend Zara throughout her time on Strictly Come Dancing, the former Love Island star is now repaying the favour!
When Sam headed over to Australia ahead of the start date, Zara shared this cute photo of the pair, writing: 'HES GONE DOWN UNDER !!! 🦘🇦🇺🌏 the rumours were true, I am so proud of you and so excited for you and for this adventure. I cannot wait to watch you every single night and be supporting you every step of the way. ❤️ p.s. can we all please vote for Sam to do one of the eating challenges?? I think it would make great entertainment considering how squeamish he is 😂😅'. (sic)
Sam lived up to his name of being the BEST hugger
The minute Sam landed in Australia, he immediately kept up his reputation of being the best hugger of all time! Joining former EastEnders star Danielle Harold, First Dates' Fred Siriex and food critic Grace Dent, Sam went straight in for the hug - and it was definitely what they all needed before taking on their challenge... Viewers loved how excitable Sam was and flooded comments sections on social media with support for him.
He absolutely smashed his first challenge
Along with Grace, Danielle and Fred, Sam was whizzed round on an incredible helicopter ride... Before being plopped on top of a 32-storey building on Australia's Gold Coast. They were then instructed to climb down to a terrifyingly small platform, shimmy themselves down a pole and undo carabiners while pushing a star to the end of the pole - all in under three minutes! Thankfully, they were gracefully lifted to safety and not forced to jump off the end.
Learning some JLS moves with Marvin
After the campmates noticed that Jamie Lynn Spears was looking particularly down, she broke down to the group and they immediately rallied round her to try and lift her spirits. As the audience has dubbed Sam a "golden retriever in human form", he was a perfect candidate to be involved in the cheer-up team! He excitedly encouraged her to have a bath, going on to suggest they sing a song to her.
As JLS singer Marvin Humes walked past, Sam roped him in to join the serenading party - before admitting in the Bush Telegraph that he was actually a HUGE fan of JLS. So viewers laughed along as an incredibly odd scene played out - Sam and Marvin singing 'Everybody In Love' as First Date's Fred Siriex played the drums on a bucket. What a scene! Marvin taught Sam the choreography to the hit song as well as 'She Makes Me Wanna' - something they performed for the group later in the episode. Wholesome fun!
Comparing his cats to Jamie Lynn's children
Fans of the show could see Jamie Lynn really suffering on Day 3, missing her kids - Maddie and Ivey - and her spirits weren't able to be lifted after four of the campmates unsuccessfully attempted to win her luxury item... A picture of her daughters!
We all know that Sam is a ray of sunshine, and took it upon himself to try and make her feel better... By comparing Jamie Lynn missing her kids to him missing his cats at home! He said: "I get it man, I've got two cats at home - Albus and Cedric - little fluffy men. Know what I mean? So I get it. Not kids, but I get it." Not QUITE the same Sam, but good try!
Sam got candid about the hilarious reason he joined Made In Chelsea
In a chilled conversation with fellow telly stars Josie Gibson and Fred Siriex, Sam was enthralled by Josie's tale of how she got her job on This Morning. He told the Bush Telegraph: "Everyone's got a story and it's never as easy as it looks. Really awesome for someone like me to hear, if you believe you can do whatever you put your mind to. I really liked it."
He then opened up about his own start to fame - revealing the hilarious reason why he wanted to be on the show: "When I started doing Made In Chelsea, I genuinely thought, I was like, the only reason I'm doing it is to get into nightclubs for free and to hopefully go on a date! So I was like this could be great, I'll do that for like two years then just get like a real job." When Josie asked him if he got all the dates he wanted, he quipped: "No, I kept on getting in relationships!"
Sam triumphed at the Scarena
After the campmates took part in a group trial at the Scarena, Sam finished in the top five to join the Home camp, as they compete for the breakfast of dreams. Coached by new campmate Frankie Dettori, the camp is also made up of Jamie Lynn Spears, Danielle Harold, Fred Siriex and Nella Rose.
He was overcome with emotion at the Breakfast of Champions
As part of the Home team, Sam won the Breakfast of Champions after taking part in the Head to Head games at the Scarena. They all thoroughly enjoyed their incredible brekkie made up of scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes, fruit, toast, orange juice and plenty more besides. During the huge eating session, Sam couldn't help himself and went in for a hug with Fred, who kindly participated for a few seconds before asking Sam to let him eat. Bless 'em!
Bossing the Fishy Business Bushtucker Trial with Nella
Sam was voted by the public to take part in the Fishy Business trial along with Nella. Nella's role was to stand in an enclosed space with spiders and crocs, reading out questions, and Sam's role was to find which sea creatures' box corresponded to the answer. He then had to remove a star with his tongue before even finding out if the answer was correct! The pair won a massive 10 out of 12 stars between them, conducting the trial in only 12 minutes.
In true Sam style, he told Ant and Dec how much of an honour it was to be stood before them taking part in a task: "It's a pleasure, it's an honour. I've always wanted to be stood here looking at you guys like this, so this is just really, really cool." Hilariously, Sam was confronted by a load of toads in one box, just like the initiation we put him through here at Hits Radio before he headed out to Australia!
Being a total fanboy over Tony Bellew
Once the Away team rejoined the Home lot in Main Camp, Sam was wholly excited to meet boxing legend Tony Bellew. He immediately asked if he could hug him, which Tony was thankfully happy to oblige, later telling the Bush Telegraph: "I've watched a tonne of his fights. He's bigger in real life, he's a unit." Fred even commented on it in his own Bush Telegraph interview: "Sam is so excited that Tony Bellew has arrived in the jungle. He can't believe his eyes and he can't believe his ears!" He later compared hand sizes with Tony, excitedly telling Marvin: "This hand is just a hand, but this hand has knocked out so many people!"
Being crowned Camp Leader
In the first leadership vote, Sam was crowned Camp Leader - and immediately celebrated in true Sam style by jumping up and down and doing a few laps of the camp! He was then tasked with choosing a deputy leader which - of course - went to Marvin, before the pair of them went off to choose the rest of the camp roles.
Pepping up Jamie Lynn
We knew Sam would be great for camp morale before he even entered the jungle - his enthusiasm for everything is infectious! In the episode on Tues 28th Nov, Jamie Lynn was once again seen struggling with camp conditions and expressed a desire to leave the jungle. After Sam tried to rally the camp by asking if everyone had a nice day, she asked Sam almost as a throwaway comment whether he ever had bad days - to which he sincerely replied that he did. She said: "That's nice to know," as he genuinely explained: "But I was up there by the shower, there are frogs everywhere - it was really, really pretty! I stood there and went, 'I'm never gonna be in a place where I can see that beautiful waterfall with loads of wild frogs just while you're showering. It's just so cool." Jamie Lynn agreed: "We're never going to do this again," as Sam jokingly encouraged her to think of the frogs if she ever wants to leave the camp. Cute!
THE LEECH
Sam woke up from his first night in the caravan as Camp Leader with his Deputy Marvin to find blood in his sleeping bag and instantly panicked - like we imagine the majority of people would. On closer inspection, there was a fair amount of blood in there... And he spotted the culprit! A leech had made its way into Sam's sleeping bag and had a field on day - where else? - his bum. Sam later told the Bush Telegraph that he felt "violated" and Marvin added in his own interview: "He certainly woke up on the wrong side of the leech."
When he slapped a literal professional boxer in the face
After winning a Dingo Dollar challenge together - during which viewers could see Tony very slowly but surely losing his patience - he and Sam headed over to Kiosk Kev, who rang the campmates to ask them the all important question and win some choccie biccies. As Sam was telling Tony the answer, he immediately slapped Tony in the forehead to kill a mosquito - yes, he slapped a former professional BOXER in the face. At least he was doing him a favour! Viewers were left in stitches as Tony took a very long exhale to calm himself, while Sam chatted away to himself about how Tony might have decked him. Sam's girlfriend Zara commented on the moment on Instagram, writing: 'I have never laughed so hard in my entire life... This is the most Sam thing ever,' with a whole host of laughing emojis.
He opened up about his ADHD diagnosis
Viewers have noticed how close Sam and JLS star Marvin Humes have become throughout the show, and in the episode on 30th Nov, heartstrings were pulled as Sam candidly spoke out about his ADHD diagnosis. While Marvin gently asked questions, Sam was happy to answer in a chat with Josie, revealing that he was only diagnosed last year: "There's loads of people who are actually like of a certain age who get diagnosed way later. When the low bits happen it goes low. But then the highs are really high."
He credited girlfriend Zara McDermott with keeping him on track: "My girlfriend Zara is so steady and it's so good for me. When she's going steady I'm going like that mimes wavy line," adding that he felt guilty for being "selfish" sometimes. He even spoke about his childhood: "Weird no one spotted it beforehand at school, but if you look at all of my report cards, every single one says the same, it says: 'Likeable enough guy, but lacks focus'. It's staring at you in the face. If I'd known as a kid, not much would have changed, but how you feel about yourself probably changes. I remember crying into my textbook because I couldn't understand the words going into my head. You want to do good. You don't want to be mischievous or anything like that." He then confessed that he'd love to be a dad, with Marvin reassuring him: "You would be the most incredible dad. Trust me, all my kids care about is giving them attention, being with them in the moment, loving them, cuddling them, they just want to have all of you and to be as fun as possible and feel loved."
Who's chopping onions?!
Receiving his letter from home
It was a bumper evening for the campmates during Sunday 3rd December's episode, as all 10 campmates received their letter from home thanks to the whole team working hard during a Dingo Dollar Challenge. Sam's letter was, of course, from his beloved girlfriend Zara McDermott, who wrote: "It's your Goose here. Keep shining, keep lighting up the camp in your special way and know just how beautiful a person everyone thinks you are." N'aww!
Acting out an improvised film with BFF Marvin
Marvin and Sam really took their friendship to the next level after they improvised a full film plot purely for their campmates' entertainment. Explaining what was going on to an absolutely bewildered Josie, Marvin explained how Sam's character was a cop gone bad and Marvin himself was his cop buddy. Josie ended up being pretty impressed, and we have to say - so were we!
Fooling the rest of camp with his Secret Mission
Sam was recruited by producers to stir up some drama, and in turn signed up Josie for the high jinks too - but with good reason. The pair were tasked with pretending to fail at a challenge so that the group could head out in the evening to the famous and beloved Jungle Arms. The pair poured slime and feathers all over themselves while wearing koala masks, then headed back to camp to tell their campmates the "bad" news. Josie took the fall, making out that she'd come up against some huntsman spiders and she couldn't cope - which is pretty believable!
Living out his dream by performing with Marvin
What a night it was! The campmates were well and truly treated to a night they'll never forget down at the Jungle Arms - and they all took part in some karaoke, as is tradition at this point on I'm A Celeb. Sam and Marvin took to the stage together to perform 'Everybody In Love'... And it was clear to see the utter joy on Sam's face at living out this dream!
Casually throwing berries at Tony like he's got a death wish
Sam well and truly poked the bear when he began started throwing berries at Tony, who was enjoying a mid-afternoon nap. The cheeky chap could be seen hiding in the bushes chucking bits at the boxer who - obviously - was pretty enraged by the whole thing! Nick Pickard did not hang about and turned away once he saw what was going on, and even Sam's jungle BFF Marvin did not endorse his actions, telling Nick: "He's got a death wish!" We'd hate to be around when Tony realises it was actually Sam's doing...
Chatting to Josie about his future with Zara
We all know how totally devoted Sam is to his girlfriend Zara, and it was lovely to hear him chat about his future with her in a heartwarming conversation with Josie. After Sam and Josie discussed their careers, talk turned to parenthood and Josie told Sam he'd be "the best dad." Sam said: "Thanks, Jose. It's kind of tough to explain this, a lot of people - you not included - a lot of guys who are like, 'Mate, you need to have kids, you need to have kids,' but my circumstances are different to yours. My girlfriend, and I would never want to take this away from her, is doing so well. I know she doesn't want to give that up. And she shouldn't have to. There will come a time where we'll both be like, 'Yeah, now's the time', but I just don't think it's now." Josie replied: "I had Reg at 33 and I'm so glad I had him at that age as well. I really lived my life. I totally lived it. If anything happened to me tomorrow Sam, I have had a blinder. I've had a real a good time. Until you feel like that, you know, hold out."
Squabbling with Nigel Farage over burnt rice
After Nick's departure from camp, Sam was unwittingly promoted to head chef, with Nigel becoming sous chef. Unfortunately, things didn't get off to a great start as the campmates tucked into burnt rice for breakfast due to a miscommunication between the chefs... Nigel was adamant that he'd asked Sam to watch it (despite viewers at home seeing the truth), and Sam stuck to his guns that it'd had been Nigel's responsibility... Yikes!
Absolutely smashing his spy-themed Bushtucker Trial
We all saw how disappointed Sam was to be shot down for a Bushtucker Trial earlier in the last week of the show, but he was thrilled after being encouraged to undertake a spy-themed challenge by his campmates, hilariously entitled This is No Time To Cry part two, Cry Harder. Cementing his status as the most enthusiastic campmate in I'm A Celeb history, Sam declared the laser beams as "so cool" - and even got hosts Ant and Dec caught up in his excitement, as they got on board with the spy theme, referring to him as Agent Murph throughout the trial. He even thanked them for having him at the trial! He got an incredible six stars out of six.
Seeing Pete in the jungle
Sam had an incredibly heartwarming moment when he was surprised with a one-on-one meet-up with his best friend, Pete Wicks. The pair, who have been close friends since appearing on the sixth series of Celebs Go Dating which aired in 2019, were reunited in a truly wonderful scene. Tears were shed from both sides and there were LOTS of hugs - with Pete telling Sam how proud he is and how much he loves him. It was super sweet!
CELEBRITY CYCLONE!
Sam achieved a literal LIFE GOAL by making it to the semi-final and taking part in the Celebrity Cyclone trial alongside Josie, Tony and Nigel! The quartet absolutely smashed the Cyclone - always a viewer favourite - and won themselves a full quota of stars, resulting in some delicious ribs for their evening meal!
The eating trial
We were all desperate for Sam to take on an eating trial during his time in the jungle. He may have left it til literally the last opportunity, but he finally did it! Viewers up and down the country watched through their hands as Sam choked down various - ahem - delicacies... But it meant that all three finalists got their main meals for camp. What a hero!
WINNER!
Sam WON I'm A Celeb 2023! It was never in any doubt for us, and we're absolutely over the moon for him. He was visibly overwhelmed after hearing the news, but equally thrilled - what a worthy winner!
Sam chats to the Hits Radio team about his win
He may be the King of the Jungle, but Sam didn't forget his roots - and made time in his busy schedule to chat to Fleur East, James and Matt after winning the show. After revealing that he didn't initially react to his win due to being distracted by a comment from Tony, Sam admitted his life flashed before his eyes after THAT moment he slapped the boxing legend to save him from a mosquito... He's a braver man than us!
Sam enjoys a special homecoming celebration!
Sam received a royal welcome when he returned to the Hits Radio studios! Sam was met with confetti, banners and a crown as he made his entrance.
From November 2024, Sam is co-hosting I'm A Celeb: Unpacked alongside other former campmate Joel Dommett and Kemi Rodgers.
Sam Thompson's ADHD diagnosis
Sam took part in the Channel 4 documentary, Is This ADHD?, which aired in May 2023 to explore a potential diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The documentary saw Sam approach his 30th birthday, undergoing a test and eventually receiving a diagnosis.
Those close to Sam, including his girlfriend Zara, friends and family, not only know Sam for his large personality, but also his forgetful and impulsive characteristics. For years, many told him he exhibited signs of ADHD.
Sam said: "As someone who has worked in television for nearly a decade, I’ve shared some of my most personal moments with the world. But nothing has come close to this. This documentary is the most vulnerable I’ve felt in front of the camera, as I wanted to be totally open about how I react to people in situations, and whether these could be linked to ADHD.
"It has been an incredible, and at times, scary experience, but by exploring what’s been going on inside my head, I hope people can see that we should be more understanding before judging others. I also want to encourage people to learn more about themselves, and be proud of everything that makes them unique."
Prior to the documentary being aired, Sam appeared on ITV's Lorraine, where he opened up about his diagnosis. He said: "It's one of those things that I've been told from a very young age to then sort of my early twenties. Everyone kept coming up to me like: 'You've got ADHD, I'm convinced you've got ADHD.'
"At the time, because I was so young, I was just like: 'I don't care.' Then as I got older, especially as I hit 30, I just started really caring about finding out more about myself and seeing if my life could be any better. I want to be the adult that I see everyone else being."
Sam Thompson: Ambassador of ADHD UK
Sam has been very open and honest about his ADHD diagnosis, and in July 2024 announced that he was now an ambassador for charity ADHD UK! Taking to Instagram with the news, Sam wrote: 'As many of you know, this is a cause very close to my heart. Their charity slogan is ‘positively changing what it means to have ADHD in the UK’ – and that just sums up my own mission as someone diagnosed with ADHD not too long ago.
'Changing perceptions of those with ADHD, and encouraging conversation around this topic is and will continue to be a huge and central part of my life. This is what I want my legacy to be, above anything else.
'Since I left the jungle, I’ve met so many children and adults who have come up to me, or contacted me to say I’ve helped change their minds on how they view ADHD. I want to reach as many people as I possibly can, especially young people, and show there is such magic in being neurodiverse.
'Yes there are some very real challenges along the way, but with the right support, it can be a superpower, it can be a blessing and we can achieve all of our dreams.'
Was Sam on Love Island?
He's never made an appearance on the show as a contestant, but Sam is co-host of the official Love Island podcast and a regular panellist on Aftersun! He began hosting alongside former islander Indiyah Polak for the Winter series in 2023, discussing all the villa antics on Love Island: The Morning After.
He said of joining the show: "It feels like I’m with my family and we’re all in it together and I really like it. We’re all massive fans of the show and it’s really, really nice."
The pair returned to host the podcast for the summer series in 2023...
Sam's sunglasses brand with Pete Wicks
In March 2023, Sam launched his very own brand called DINELLI EYEWEAR with his BFF Pete Wicks. He told fans: '@dinelli has just launched baby!!🙌🏻 we started this completely from scratch a long time ago and it’s finally here!!
'I truly believe that we have created something of the best quality ❤️ I really hope you love them as much as we do! Head to the instagram page to get our first drop of the Tint Eastwood tinted eyewear…you won’t regret it! 💃🏼 (even managed to rope @p_wicks01 into the photoshoot) 😂'. (sic)
Can Sam play any musical instruments?
Yes, Sam can play the trumpet, and he's pretty good at it too! Not wanting to blow is own trumpet (see what we did there?), Sam revealed in a chat to James Arthur, that he is Grade 6 on the trumpet! 🎺
How can I follow Sam Thompson on social media?
You can follow Sam Thompson on Instagram: samthompsonuk
You can follow Sam Thompson on Twitter: @SamThompsonUK
You can follow Sam Thompson on TikTok: samthompsonuk
How tall is Sam?
Sam is 6 foot tall (1.84m).
Catch Sam on the air hosting The Hits Radio Evening Show, where he will be joined by some of the world's biggest stars, as well as playing the biggest hits and the biggest throwbacks.
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