Reality and talent shows have not only found a place on our television screens but also a firm place in our hearts – prompting much chat over topics such as who has won Traistors or who auditioned in front of Simon Cowell.
Whether it’s the disgusting challenges on I’m a Celebrity, surprising acts on talent shows or some Apprentice candidates being a little too sure of themselves many memorable moments have been made and much repeated on the small screens an on social media.
For some reality television is a platform to stardom, while for others who are already well-known it is a chance to show a different side to themselves.
This year’s I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, which begins its annual residency on our television screens tomorrow (November 16), is no different.
But this area has had its fair share of stars of the small screen who are from the Portsmouth area, or who have very strong connections to our city.
Here’s a look back at a few people who have graced our screens, with shows that range from the big-hitters to those which were slightly shorter lived.
5. Reality television stars
Bessie Cursons, then 12, made it to the final of the first series of Britain's Got Talent in the summer of 2007. She later appeared in the film Nativity! and continued to shine on the local stage. She now runs her own theatre and dance academy in Portsmouth Picture: Michael Scaddan
6. Reality television stars
Portsmouth-born Kim Woodburn was known as the "Queen of Clean" and came to prominence by co-presenting the Channel 4 series How Clean Is Your House? She maintained a media career that spanned over two decades and went on to appear on various reality television shows, most notably I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in 2009 and Celebrity Big Brother 2017. Sadly she died following a short illness on 16 June 2025, aged 83. | Ian Hargreaves
7. Strictly Come Dancing
Para Triathlete Lauren Steadman has won all there is to win in her sport - and she wowed on Strictly Come Dancing, reaching the semi final in 2018. The former University of Portsmouth student and Portsmouth Northsea swimmer has also competed and was one of two finalists in series 2 of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins. Earlier this year she competed in and won Celebrity MasterChef.
8. Reality television stars
Helena Blackman was the runner-up in the contest How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria? in 2006, which looked to find someone to play Maria von Trapp in a production of the Sound of Music. From Locks Heath, Helena has had a successful career on stage, appearing at the Kings Theatre several times and is continuing with her acting career.