Tony Bellew reveals family tragedy just hours before heading into I'm A Celebrity jungle... as show is set to launch with line-up including legendary jockey Frankie Dettori and Nigel Farage

Former boxer Tony Bellew is set to appear as a latecomer on ITV's I'm A Celebrity,' which is set to air its first episode on Sunday. 

Bellew revealed on his social media that he had recently faced a family tragedy with the passing of his grandmother, just a day before the show's launch. 

The former Cruiserweight World champion shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, expressing his love and admiration for his grandmother, who played a significant maternal role in his life. 

Posting on Instagram, Bellew penned: 'Goodnight Nan! I'll love you forever girl... An amazing mother to me Mum in what I can only imagine was a difficult time.

'You carried me and my 3 brothers like we was yours! I can't lie it was like having 2 Mums! You always put us straight and told us off! You was the boss of our house.. 

'97 years old! You was a lady and a boss right to the end... I love you Nan.'

Despite the personal loss, Bellew is preparing to join the other latecomer, Frankie Dettori, in the jungle. 

The duo are expected to integrate into camp life alongside a range of names, including the likes of This Morning's Josie Gibson and Britney Spears' sister Jamie Lynn Spears. 

Former UKIP leader Nigel Farage will also be joining them down under, with Made in Chelsea star Sam Thompson, Eastenders' Danielle Harold and YouTube sensation Nella Rose filling the jungle.

JLS singer Marvin Humes, food critic Grace Dent, First Dates' Fred Sirieix, and Nick Pickard are the final stars to grace the jungle's infamous bush-tucker trials and challenges this winter.

Jockey Dettori, 52 and professional boxer Bellew, 40, will be entering as latecomers - like last year's Matt Hancock and Seann Walsh for the shows' 23rd series.