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.
9. Reality tv stars
Demi Jones, from Cosham, did the city proud when she finished third in Love Island in 2020. After being diagnosed with thyroid cancer, she signed up for The Real Full Monty in 2021. She returned to compete in the spin-off series Love Island: All-Stars in 2024. Now she's a influencer, boasting 1.1million Instagram followers and is an ambassador for the Teenage Cancer charity.
10. Reality television stars
Lina Hodgkins featured in the ITVBe reality TV show Life On Marbs. Originally from Portsmouth, Lina had lived in the Spanish beach resort for several years before the cameras came to town. Now affectionately known as “Mummy Marbella”, she has organised countless legendary hen parties, and has a prominent place in Marbella’s vibrant nightlife scene.(151216-6)
11. Reality television stars
Former Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt first came to national prominence when taking part in Splash! in 2014 - and performing terrifying-looking dives very competently. Dame Penny was thrown back into the limelight for her role of carrying the heavy Sword of State during King Charles III's coronation. But she lost her seat in the Commons in 2024. Since then she continues a number of business, advisory, media, and charitable roles and is widely expected to try to return to politics. Earlier this year she appeared on The Wargame - a part-documentary, part-drama TV series on Sky.
12. Reality television stars
Zara Deniz Lackenby-Brown appeared on Love Island in 2023. A former University of Portsmouth student and Astoria nightclub disco girl, she was popular with viewers, many of whom were angry when she was savagely kicked off the island after a recoupling. Picture: ITV PLC/Astoria Nightclub.