Co-star Bradley Johnson praises Lisa’s strength as she opens up about her late mother on I’m a Celebrity
A Jungle Journey Built on Grief and Strength
Emmerdale legend Lisa Riley has quickly become one of the most beloved stars in this year’s I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, but her path through the jungle has been far more emotional than many viewers realise.
Facing snakes, extreme weather, and brutal trials, Lisa’s courage hasn’t just come from physical challenges. It’s rooted in something far deeper: a grief journey that began with the loss of her mother in 2012—and has shaped every step she takes.
A Bond Forged in Loss
Lisa recently formed a deep connection with fellow campmate Jack Osbourne, whose father, rock icon Ozzy Osbourne, passed away earlier this year. Their emotional conversation aired during a quiet moment in camp, with Lisa gently asking Jack about his loss.
The soap star revealed that her own mother, Cath, died of breast cancer in 2012 at just 57. Speaking softly about what her mum would think of her jungle journey, Lisa said,
“While my mum would be gleaming at the prospect of me doing the jungle, I can also imagine her sat there… being frantically worried about me.”
Still, Lisa added with conviction, “She knows that I am a very headstrong person.”
Bradley Johnson: “She’s Been a Rock for Jack”
On Tuesday’s episode of Lorraine, Lisa’s Emmerdale co-star Bradley Johnson (Vinny Dingle) shared his admiration for her heartfelt presence in the jungle.
Speaking with Lorraine Kelly, Bradley said:
“Everything that Lisa’s been through with losing her mum and the grief journey she’s been on… you can tell she’s really been a support for Jack.”
Bradley praised Lisa’s emotional wisdom and her ability to lift others up, even while carrying her own pain.
“Lisa always says the best medication is to talk about it, to be open,” he explained.
“And she’s helping Jack do just that—be open, cry, and let it out.”
Lisa’s True Heart Shines Through
While fans know Lisa as the bold, brash Mandy Dingle on Emmerdale, Bradley reminded viewers that there’s so much more to the actress behind the character.
“Lisa is that person we all turn to at work,” he said.
“She gives advice, she listens, she cares. Watching her now, just being herself—it’s phenomenal.”
From tackling creepy crawlies to comforting a grieving friend, Lisa Riley has proven that courage comes in many forms. And in the depths of the Australian jungle, she’s showing that sometimes, the strongest thing you can do is simply open your heart.