Jeremy Vine has faced widespread criticism over apparent double standards after questioning Coleen Rooney’s decision to take her children out of school for an I’m A Celebrity visit.
The broadcaster sparked controversy during his Channel 5 programme when he debated whether it was appropriate for Rooney’s children to miss school for their Australian jungle visit.
Critics have pointed out that Vine failed to raise similar concerns about fellow contestant Danny Jones, who also had his young son visit during the show.
During the final stages of I’m A Celebrity, both contestants received emotional family visits in the Australian jungle.
Coleen Rooney was reunited with her two youngest sons, Kit, eight, and Cass, six, along with her mother Colette.
Meanwhile, eventual winner Danny Jones shared an equally touching moment with his wife Georgia and their six-year-old son Cooper.
Coleen Rooney’s youngest children visited her in the jungle
ITV
Both reunions were brief, with Rooney taking time to show her family around the camp before bidding them an emotional farewell.
During his Channel 5 programme, Vine initiated a debate about Rooney’s parenting choices, citing criticism from MPs.
“Coleen has faced criticism from MPs for reportedly taking the children down under for almost two weeks,” Vine stated on his show.
He referenced shadow education minister Neil O’Brien’s comments that her “bad example was the last thing schools need.”
Suzy Stride defended Coleen Rooney and the decision to have her children there
CHANNEL 5
Political commentator Suzy Stride responded: “This story annoyed me so much. What does this show? It shows that she’s a mum that loved her kids, missed her kids. It shows that she’s human and wanted to see them.”
A viewer named Shelley from Newcastle directly challenged the apparent double standard during the show.
“Why is nobody criticising Danny who won? His six-year-old was out of school and in the jungle. I’m not hearing criticism for him!” she said.
She pointed out that Coleen’s mother had been helping with schoolwork during their time away.
Vine appeared unmoved by the criticism, maintaining that it was irrelevant that only Rooney was receiving backlash and asserting that children shouldn’t be taken out of school.
The backlash against Vine intensified after he posted the clip to X, formerly Twitter.
Coleen was thrilled to see her sons again
ITV
“Danny Jones did the exact same thing but OF COURSE only the woman/mother is judged,” wrote one user.”
Another commented: “Jeremy Vine the Colleen full-on hater…!! What about others in the jungle that have done the same thing??”
“I see your baiting isn’t working. You are actually gutted the public are not outraged at Coleen,” added another user.
“And Danny Jones’ son, or is it just Coleen Rooney you’re discussing?!!! Would you ask the same question of a man?” questioned a fourth. (sic)
