Ferne McCann has confirmed that she will not be returning as a regular cast member when The Only Way Is Essex comes back to our screens.

In a video posted on the show’s Twitter page, she blamed her busy post-I’m A Celebrity career on the break from the show she became famous through.

She said: “Many of you have been wondering if I’m returning back to Essex after my adventures Down Under.

“I have been super busy since I’ve been back from Australia which means you won’t be seeing as much of this (points to her face) on The Only Way Is Essex. To be honest with you, you might enjoy the break.

Ferne McCann
Ferne rose to fame on the ITVBe show (ITV Pictures)

“However, if any of my friends ever need me or need my advice I will make sure I’m back to Essex to help them. Thank you for all your love and support.”

Ferne, who has appeared on TOWIE since 2013, came third in the jungle reality show last year, losing to George Shelley and eventual winner Vicky Pattison.

Ferne McCann
Ferne came third in I’m a Celeb (ITV)

She’s started a glamorous new life for herself as a showbiz reporter, regularly joining Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield on the This Morning sofa.

The news upset Ferne’s fans.