Dean McCullough’s mum has spoken out in support of her son after he has struggled in the I’m A Celebrity trials, saying he is ‘loved’ and ‘we are all cheering him on’

Dean will be “beating himself up” over his Bushtucker trial performance

Dean McCullough’s mum, Ann, has declared her son a winner in her eyes, despite his struggles on the challenging trials of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!. The 32 year old Radio 1 DJ faced another tough time last night, managing to secure only four stars in the Lethal Lab before calling it quits with the iconic phrase “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!.”

This marked the second time he’s used those words in three trials, following a zero-star performance in the Drown in the Dumps task alongside internet sensation GK Barry. But Ann, 55, is full of encouragement for her son, saying: “The trials have been tough, and he’ll be beating himself up over it.”

Dean McCullough’s mum Ann is backing the I’m a Celeb star after trial struggles
Speaking to the Mirror, she added: “He just needs to remember to do his best and have fun. I’m so proud of him. He is so loved and we are all cheering him on.” Despite Dean’s rocky start, Ann believes he has the potential to win the ITV show, stating: “Dean definitely has got what it takes to be king – and queen – of the jungle.”

Her support remains steadfast even after hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly expressed some disappointment over Dean’s trial attempts. Ant shared his frustration, admitting: “I got quite annoyed at one point because I am a bit like if you can’t do it you can’t do it, but just get on with it.”

Dec also hinted at a backstage “bit of a debate” regarding the authenticity of Dean’s fearful reactions during an Instagram Live session with fans. Nonetheless, Ann maintains that Dean will continue to give his all and stay true to himself.

Dean with brother Ben
She gushed: “As his mother I gave him special things to remember – how much he is loved, to remember where he’s from, to be himself, no cursing and to do his best and have fun. And to do a Myleene Klass in the shower! Words can’t describe how proud I am.” She revealed that after Dean was approached for the show, they sought divine intervention at their local church. “We both manifested and prayed. I saw him in the jungle – in the iconic boots, socks, bandana and hat. Lots of candles were lit. They’re still lit.”

Despite not being a fan of bugs, she reminisced about Dean’s childhood outdoor adventures with his brother Ben, now 27. “He loved camping and a caravan trip. And we still go now. Portrush [in Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland] is our go-to.”

Ann predicts that Dean will click with Coleen Rooney and Jane Moore but insists he “gets on with everyone”. She added: “He is very caring. If he sees anyone struggling, he’ll be the first to put his arm around them.” While Dean might not excel at winning camp meals, his mum boasts of his other skills. Ann says: “He is very tidy and will be cleaning the camp and helping people with their washing – he’s so helpful.”