Pop star 'scraps TV comeback as they pull out of Holly Willoughby and Bear Grylls' Netflix show'

Little Mix star Jesy Nelson is said to have pulled out of Netflix's new survival show despite wanting to make a TV comeback.

The singer, 32, was rumoured to be taking part in the brand new series on the streaming platform hosted by Holly Willoughby and Bear Grylls. She had took a break from stardom following her departure from the pop group and the launch of her solo career. Jesy was tipped to join Bear Hunt, which starts filming in Costa Rica next month.

The show is due to air in 2025 and it has been reported The Saturdays singer Una Healy and rugby hunk Danny Cipriani are among those taking part. Jesy was said to have been approach by casting agents from the show and despite having "deep pockets", they have not been able to strike up a deal.

An insider told The Sun: "Jesy had meetings with producers who were casting for the show, but in the end they couldn’t come to a deal so Jesy won’t be in the final line-up. It will be a real blow to Little Mix fans who were excited to see her back in the public eye, and it would have been a huge global gig for Jesy, but bosses met with loads of big celeb names and not everyone ends up in the confirmed mix.

"The show is set to be a huge hit though and Netflix are ploughing loads of money into it so it’s sure to get another series - don’t be surprised if Jesy ends up in the line-up for the second season." Jesy left Little Mix abruptly in December 2020, citing mental health issues.

She made a TV appearance on Great Celebrity Bake Off last year, where she was criticised for attempting to knead cake mix with her long nails. Jesy has been enjoying downtime away from public attention. The singer told her fans last summer: "Hey guys! So for a long time I've really wanted to go travelling but never had the time to do it. I've got some really exciting things coming up with work and my music, but until then I'm gonna take the summer off to travel the world. I'm going to be off my social media, I love you all so much and I'll see you when I'm back."

Jesy made an unexpected return to her Instagram account in January as she shared several pictures from globetrotting adventures with boyfriend Zion Foster. Last month an insider claimed Jesy was ready to make a return to TV. They told 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." Bear Hunt will see celebrities receive training from survival expert Bear Grylls and take on nerve-shaking challenges to pick up essential wilderness survival skills.

The Mirror has contacted Jesy's representative and Netflix for comment.

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