Published On: Fri, Jan 23rd, 2026

Rice, Beans, and Drama: Dschungelcamp 2026 Kicks Off with Star-Studded Cast

The wait is over for reality TV fans across the German-speaking world. The 19th season of Ich bin ein Star – Holt mich hier raus! (widely known as Dschungelcamp) officially launched on Friday, sending twelve celebrities into the Australian wilderness for the ultimate test of patience, hunger, and public relations.

The RTL hit show, which dominates watercooler conversations in Austria and Germany every January, promises another year of grueling challenges and campfire conflicts as contestants vie for the coveted “Jungle Crown.”

The 2026 Celebrity Lineup

RTL has assembled a cast designed to spark friction. Among the most talked-about entrants confirmed for this year’s edition are:

  • Gil Ofarim (43): The musician and public figure, whose career has seen significant highs and controversies, is expected to be a focal point of the season.
  • Claudia Obert (61): The flamboyant luxury entrepreneur and reality TV veteran is infamous for her unfiltered commentary and love of champagne—luxuries she will have to forgo in the camp.
  • Simone Ballack (49): The entrepreneur and ex-wife of football legend Michael Ballack brings a competitive edge to the group.
  • Hardy Krüger Jr. (57): A veteran actor and familiar face on German television, bringing a sense of seniority to the campsite.

The mix of seasoned entertainers and polarizing personalities suggests RTL is aiming for high-voltage drama from day one.

Endurance, Fear, and Insects

Hosted by the sharp-tongued duo Sonja Zietlow and Jan Köppen, the show follows a strict format: celebrities must survive on a diet of rice and beans, which can only be supplemented by winning “stars” in the infamous Dschungelprüfungen (Jungle Trials). These trials range from physical endurance tests to eating challenges involving insects and animal organs.

According to production insiders, the 2026 season features stricter camp rules and renovated trial zones designed to push the stars to their physical limits faster than in previous years.

A Cross-Border Phenomenon

While produced by German broadcaster RTL, the show enjoys massive popularity in Austria. Much like the recent appearance of Christian Clerici and Arabella Kiesbauer on German screens, Dschungelcamp highlights the shared media landscape of the DACH region.

For Austrian viewers, the show has become a nightly ritual. It serves as a stark contrast to high-culture events like the Vienna New Year’s Concert, offering unfiltered, “guilty pleasure” entertainment.

How to Watch

Dschungelcamp 2026 airs daily at 20:15 CET on RTL. For those who prefer on-demand viewing or want to catch the “Aftershow,” episodes are available via the RTL+ streaming platform.

With the first campfire lit and the first trials assigned, the battle for the throne of the jungle has officially begun.

About the Author

- Nicole Marco is a driven journalist with a commitment to uncovering the truth. With over eight years of experience, she has made a name for herself in the industry with her investigative reporting and incisive writing. Nicole holds a degree in journalism from the University of Graz and has worked for well-respected Austrian newspapers. Her work has been recognized with several awards and she is dedicated to delivering in-depth and insightful journalism to her readers. Known for her courage and professionalism, Nicole is a valuable asset to the Austrian journalism community.

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