In a finale that captivated the nation with a record-breaking 13 million votes – the highest in over a decade – YouTuber and Twitch sensation AngryGinge was crowned King of the Jungle in I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! 2025. Yet, it was the eloquent and endlessly charming Celebs Go Dating receptionist Tom Read Wilson who stole the emotional spotlight as runner-up, leaving viewers in floods of tears during his raw exit interview.

The 39-year-old late entrant, known for his impeccable manners, theatrical flair, and that unmistakable posh accent, entered the Australian jungle as an underdog alongside Vogue Williams. What followed was a masterclass in resilience, kindness, and unexpected bravery. Tom quickly became the camp’s emotional glue – offering poetic pep talks, diffusing tensions with wit, and forming unbreakable bonds with unlikely allies like the fiery AngryGinge and rapper Aitch.

His trials were legendary. In the infamous Bushtucker Bonanza eating challenge during the final stretch, Tom made history by swallowing a fermented duck egg whole – a feat no celebrity had achieved before. He powered through camel brain (likening it to “foie gras gone bad”), a pig’s vagina (surprisingly “not ghastly”), and a huntsman spider, all while maintaining his signature composure and humor. These moments showcased a side of Tom far removed from his polished TV persona: vulnerable, determined, and utterly fearless.

As the final three – Tom, AngryGinge, and former EastEnders star Shona McGarty – faced elimination, the atmosphere was electric. Shona placed third, leaving the two fan favorites. When Ant and Dec announced AngryGinge as winner with 65% of the vote, Tom didn’t miss a beat. Beaming through tears, he kissed his campmate on the cheek and declared, “That’s as it should be.” The camp erupted in cheers, a testament to the genuine brotherhood forged in hardship.

But it was in his one-on-one interview that Tom truly broke hearts. Visibly emotional, eyes glistening, he reflected on the journey: “I really did give it everything I had – and that’s enough for me.” His voice cracked as he spoke of the profound growth, the lifelong friends made, and the overwhelming public support that propelled him so far. Tom admitted the jungle stripped away layers, revealing raw hunger and isolation amplifying every feeling, yet it also revealed his core strength.

Fans flooded social media with praise, many declaring Tom their “moral winner” or “King of our hearts.” His sister echoed this sentiment online, while viewers noted how he embodied grace under pressure – supporting AngryGinge’s dream without a hint of bitterness. This series, marking the show’s 25th anniversary, highlighted contrasts: the brash energy of new-gen stars like Ginge against Tom’s old-school elegance. Yet Tom’s warmth bridged generations, earning him adoration from teens to grandparents.

Beyond the crown, Tom’s story is one of triumph. From trained singer and actor (he starred as Squidward in SpongeBob the Musical) to reality TV icon, he proved authenticity shines brightest. As he reunites with family and returns to Celebs Go Dating, one thing is clear: Tom Read Wilson didn’t need a crown to rule – his heart did that all along. In a world of cutthroat competition, his tearful gratitude reminds us victory looks different for everyone. And for Tom, second place feels like pure gold.