Kathy Lette shares Ruby Wax’s jungle adventure to prove midlife women have purpose in a hilarious talk with Lorraine
Ruby Wax, the 72-year-old actress and comedian, has quickly made her mark on the current season of I’m A Celebrity 2025. Her close friend, Kathy Lette, shared insights about Ruby’s motivations for joining the show during an entertaining chat with Lorraine Kelly.
Kathy Lette on Ruby Wax’s Purpose in the Jungle
Kathy and Ruby’s friendship dates back to the 1990s, making Kathy uniquely positioned to discuss Ruby’s jungle adventure. During the interview, Kathy highlighted that both women are passionate about the idea of a “sensational second act” for women, especially post-menopause.
The Benefits of Midlife
Kathy addressed the advantages women experience after menopause, stating:
- No pregnancy scares
- No period cramps
- Availability of funds previously spent on sanitary products
She emphasized that this phase of life allows women to prioritize themselves, breaking free from societal expectations and domestic roles. This liberation, according to Kathy, is akin to cutting the “psychological umbilical cord” that keeps women tied to traditional roles.
Facing Societal Perceptions
Kathy expressed concern about how society views post-menopausal women. She remarked that after reaching this stage, women often feel they are invisible and face discrimination in the workplace. She humorously noted that MI5 considered hiring older women as spies, indicating that they “go unnoticed.”
Ruby’s Role in the Camp
Kathy believes Ruby’s participation in I’m A Celebrity serves as a powerful message that women in midlife remain vibrant and capable. Ruby’s willingness to embrace this challenge showcases her adventurous spirit, and Kathy believes she will take on a nurturing role in the camp, encouraging her fellow contestants to express their feelings.
Gendered Ageism in Media
Discussing the different ways society views aging in men and women, Kathy pointed out that while older male contestants, such as Martin Kemp, may be called “silver foxes,” women of the same age are subjected to derogatory labels. This disparity highlights ongoing gender bias in perceptions of aging.
Kathy concluded her discussion with optimism, expressing her belief that Ruby has the potential to win the competition. With a mix of humor and compassion, Kathy conveyed the importance of recognizing the continued strength and contributions of midlife women.
I’m A Celebrity is currently airing nightly at 9 PM on ITV1 and ITVX, with episodes available for catch-up through ITVX after broadcasting.
