I’m A Celebrity-Get Me In There

I must admit we don’t watch much celebrity reality TV. Things like “The Only Way Is Exeter,” “Rhyl Shoreline,” “Made In Chavski” are not for us. They are very popular though. However one that we do watch every year without fail is “I’m A Celebrity,” or to give it it’s full title “I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here.”

We all know that this year has been a nightmare for so many. The Covid-19 pandemic has seen to that…..big style. Having said that, the pandemic has presented a TV opportunity for us in the UK in the way of “I’m A Celebrity.”

Normally recorded in a remote jungle in the Australian outback, this year’s Australian adventure will not go ahead. Instead it will be relocated to good old Blighty. Not only that, it will be set at a location not a million miles from us here in Chester.

Instead of a steamy jungle, this year’s “I’m A Celebrity” will take place at a damp, rundown, listed building castle in North Wales. Gwrych Castle in Abergele to be exact. That would be about 35 miles away by my estimation.

That is a great coup and a great boost to all those towns in North Wales. I would imagine that Abergele and other places close by – e.g. Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Prestatyn, Llandudno, Conwy etc – are buzzing at the moment. And rightly so.

A great spin off from this announcement is that jobs have been created. Short term jobs albeit, but job opportunities nonetheless. Which has impacted on Chester as well as those North Wales towns.

I’m A Celebrity – Get Me In There

An advert recently posted on social media announced ITV’s interest in hiring regional runners in North Wales. It is believed that these positions are to be for “I’m A Celebrity.”

The advert on TV Conwy Community Forum, which is a Facebook page for media professionals, states that various contract start dates are available. Ranging from next week (week commencing August 31) through to November 2020.

If it is for “I’m A Celebrity” then this suggests that this year’s series will not be filmed during it’s normal November through into early December.

To be in a position to apply, certain job criteria needs to be met.

Firstly, applications will only be accepted from those living in seven North Wales towns or from Chester. Those seven towns and cities are listed as: Chester, Abergele, Llandundo, Conwy, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl, Prestatyn and Wrexham.

Runners Required In North Wales – For I’m A Celebrity?

The second application criteria is that runners must already have six months running experience. Furthermore, ideally any applicant should have experience of supporting a crew on location.

At this point many of you will be wondering what exactly is a runner in the TV industry?

What Is A TV Industry Runner?

Clearly if you fit the first two criteria then you don’t need to know what a runner. You will already know. Having already worked as a runner for at least six months and all that.

But for those that don’t know and who may be thinking it’s a career they would like to get into let’s take a look at what a runner is expected to do.

As a runner, you’ll act as a general assistant, working under the direction of the producer and other production staff to undertake whatever vital basic tasks are required to ensure the smooth running of the production process.

For most people entering the film or television industry, working as a runner is an ideal way to gain valuable experience and get your foot in the door at the same time.

It is a vital role of course as TV and film runners work behind the scenes helping productions run smoothly.

I would imagine that the University of Chester Media department are all over this opportunity. As will all North Wales educational institutes. And of course media students everywhere at other Universities but who live in the areas mentioned.

Some of these students may already have had job placements experience. Or helped to run student film, radio or TV productions. Which of course makes them ideal candidates.

Once you are in as a runner it is important that you get as much practical experience as you can. This will show employers that you’re committed to learning more about the industry. Becoming a runner will of course present you with an opportunity to meet people already working in TV and film.

Great Opportunity

In other words, a great opportunity to build a network of contacts. Having established the beginnings of a network, the world could be your lobster as Del Boy would say. That of course could help you when you are looking for future TV work opportunities.

Volunteering

Having already mentioned the University of Chester Media department, it would seem that there may be some academic qualification requirements. However, it may not completely close the door. You could always volunteer. Offering to become a runner on a volunteer basis will show that you are determined and enthusiastic. These qualities may be more important, or as important, as formal qualifications to potential employers.

One thing to be aware of I would imagine is that you would probably be prepared to work hard and long hours. But, like in most jobs, you have to start somewhere. And to succeed you will need to show a degree of determination and effort. And, in many cases, going above and beyond the call of duty.

I’m A Celebrity Runner – What Else Is Required?

Right, having established what a runner is, what about theses specific runner positions.

A number of roles are available and some will require driving, though this is “not essential”. Applicants must state if they are able to drive and if they’re over 21 on their application.

Does this sound of any interest? If so, to apply, send an email to ITVstudiostalent@itv.com with the subject ‘North Wales Runner.’

A cover letter must also be included in your email. This cover letter needs to include the following:

• your mobile number
• confirmation of availability
• confirmation you live within 10 miles of one of the areas in the advert
• any runner credits
• details of location experience you have as a runner
• where you heard about the job (specify the job site or group)
• names and contact details of two references
• The advertisement advises applicants not to contact ITV or relevant agencies with queries.

It is also stated that only those shortlisted for a vacancy will be contacted by project recruiters.

Best of luck to all those applicants thinking of applying.

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