Ex-decat athlete Juergen Hingsen is ready to swap the track for the treetops as he joins the latest season of 'I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!' (IBES) 2025. The show kickstarts on January 24, set against the backdrop of the Australian rainforest, with Hingsen’s participation making headlines for multiple reasons.
Born on January 25, 1958, Hingsen will celebrate his 67th birthday during the competition. His storied athletic career began back in 1976, and during the 1980s, he earned recognition as one of Germany's most successful decathletes, claiming multiple silver medals and setting world records. Although he faced fierce rivalry from the British athlete Daley Thompson, these experiences have shaped his indomitable spirit, which he hopes to channel during his time in the jungle.
Hingsen’s participation marks his return to reality TV after his stint on 'Let’s Dance' in 2006, where he finished fifth alongside his dance partner Uta Albanese. Reflecting on his upcoming adventure, Hingsen explained how his athletic experience equips him for both the physical and psychological challenges of the jungle. "You have to fight constantly," Hingsen stated, recognizing the competitive nature of such reality TV shows. "There’s no room for whining; you have to push through,” he added, emphasizing the importance of resilience.
Despite his extensive athletic background, Hingsen admits he is stepping out of his comfort zone. He prepared both mentally and physically to cope with the harsh conditions he's likely to face. He joked about missing home comforts, particularly his wife’s famous pasta. “There’s no tasty pasta from my wife, but two weeks is manageable,” said Hingsen, who is used to the comforts of Olympic accommodations, comparing them to the more spartan environment of the camp where he will be sleeping on just a cot.
Family plays a significant role as well, with Hingsen planning to bring along his wife, Francesca Santonocito, who has been his partner through life’s ups and downs. The couple married after his first marriage ended amicably. Hingsen shares two daughters from his first marriage to Jeanne Purcell, who lives in the United States.
One prominent aspect of Hingsen’s appearance is leveraging his life story as inspiration. He is enthusiastic about sharing his life lessons, incorporating themes of motivation, fairness, and sustainability—topics he frequently discusses as part of his ambassador work for children and youth causes.
Currently, excitement is building among his fans and the general public over how Hingsen will adapt to the show’s challenging format. Will he take on the role of the supportive team player, or might he emerge as the guiding leader other contestants turn to? With his breadth of life experience, it seems possible he’ll blend both roles during the course of his time on the show.
Hingsen’s legacy as one of Germany’s greatest decathletes remains, with his world record of 8798 points—set back in 1984—holding until 2023. His silver medal achievements at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and other major championships showcase his talent and perseverance. Unfortunately, his career ended unexpectedly at the 1988 Seoul Olympics amid controversy after being disqualified for false starts.
Despite the trials of his sports career, Hingsen has transitioned well, enjoying moments on screen and engaging with sports fans through various channels, including television commentary and public speaking. Now, he is poised to reenergize his public persona through his participation on 'IBES.'
His presence will undoubtedly add intrigue and excitement to the new season as viewers tune in to see the dynamics of their favorite stars competing for the coveted jungle crown.
With the lineup of contestants featuring various other personalities, the interactions and challenges await to entertain audiences. Hingsen brings along not only his years of competitive experience but also his dedication to adapting to whatever hurdles come his way.
Perhaps most thrilling for fans will be Hingsen’s encounters with the unusual challenges of jungle life, including confronting his fears. The fear of creepy crawlies stands out, but he is prepared to face all—providing he doesn't meet any live spiders, which he admits do cause him distress.
Join millions of viewers as they watch Hingsen and his fellow contestants navigate the tough terrain of pulling off various tasks under less-than-ideal conditions. 'I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!' is set to deliver laughs, surprises, and perhaps some heartfelt moments from this legendary athlete as he embarks on this bold new chapter of his life.
The competition begins on January 24—with Hingsen's birthday falling right after the premiere. You won't want to miss this unique opportunity to see how the 'Hollywood Hingsen' adapts to this different world!