ITV bosses are said to be disappointed that Joe Bugner was put out of I’m A Celebrity this week and worry that his departure will lead to another drop in ratings for the show.

The jungle based series already lost viewers when Katie Price walked out last week and producers are worried that now controversial Joe has gone, more will tune out.

A show source told The Sun: “Joe leaving was the last thing bosses wanted.

“He has been the centre of attention and has helped to create quite a few arguments. Stuart’s a nice guy but is seriously dull.

“They can’t have the interesting people picked off. Ratings might tumble even further.”

Joe said: “I didn’t want to go. I wanted to stay till the end.

“I’ve had a wonderful time. I knew from the word go that the youth would take over here and I’m happy for Stuart.”