Holly Willoughby protected by 'ex-military guns for hire' on new Netflix show

Holly Willoughby is being protected by ex-military guns for hire on a new Netflix show filmed in a country hit by a rise in kidnapping. The former ITV This Morning star, who has stayed on as a Dancing On Ice host after quitting the show last October, is set to present the series with Bear Grylls.

Holly, aged 43, Bear and at least ten celebs are due to fly to Costa Rica this month. Bosses will spend £1million on security in the jungle with a source telling the Sun newspaper: “Netflix are investing huge sums in creating a show which can rival ITV’s I’m a Celebrity, by bagging big names and choosing a tropical location.

“But keeping Holly and everyone fully protected in Costa Rica is the priority. That means hiring specialist teams of guards, many of whom will be ex-military and special forces experts. They’ll also need specialist vehicles, safe accommodation and a secure location in which to film.

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“That won’t be straightforward or cheap in a country which has a very luxurious tourist trade combined with a dangerous underbelly.” Jesy Nelson, the former Little Mix star, is rumoured to join Bear Hunt, Holly and Bear Grylls' upcoming Netflix series. Instead of laying down tracks in a studio, Jesy is expected to immerse herself in the stunning surroundings of Costa Rica, with filming starting off next month.

An insider opened up to The Sun: "Casting agents have approached Jesy to see if she would be interested and have deep pockets to ensure it's worth her time financially. She has a huge fanbase and the reality challenge series would be the perfect comeback for her. Filming takes place for a few weeks so she won't even be away from home and her creature comforts for too long. Jesy will be incredible."

The “action-packed competition” will see a group of British celebrities dropped into the jungle as “prey for one of the world’s most fearsome predators – Bear Grylls”. Made by the survival expert’s own production company The Natural Studios, along with two co-producers, Grylls will set about testing their will to survive.