Sam Thompson has come a long way since he burst onto our screens in Made in Chelsea. Once known as the posh lad with a big grin and a habit of getting into sticky relationship dramas, Sam has transformed into one of the UK’s most beloved reality TV stars.
In 2025, he’s not just famous—he’s relatable, entertaining, and refreshingly honest. Whether he’s cracking jokes in the jungle, opening up about mental health, or making mischief with his podcast co-host Pete Wicks, Sam Thompson has truly earned his place as a household name.
Quick Overview
- Rose to fame on Made in Chelsea in 2013.
- Won I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! in 2023.
- Co-hosts hit podcast Staying Relevant with Pete Wicks.
- Open advocate for ADHD awareness and men’s mental health.
- In a long-term relationship with Zara McDermott.
Who is Sam Thompson?
Sam Thompson was born on August 2, 1992, and attended the esteemed Bradfield College whilst growing up in South West London. His older sister, Louise Thompson, was already a regular on Made in Chelsea, so it was only natural for Sam to eventually join the cast himself in series 6.
From the start, Sam was a breath of fresh air. Unlike many of his co-stars, he didn’t take himself too seriously. His sense of humour, emotional honesty, and knack for self-deprecation made him instantly likeable—even when he was tangled up in love triangles and awkward confrontations.
His Rise Through Reality TV
Made in Chelsea (2013–2021)
Sam spent nearly a decade on Made in Chelsea, navigating messy romances, break-ups, and the occasional late-night row in a Chelsea wine bar. His on-off relationship with Tiffany Watson became a central storyline and gave fans one of the show’s most emotional rollercoasters.
He left the show in 2021 to explore new opportunities, and it turned out to be a smart move.
Celebrity Big Brother (2017)
In 2017, Sam became a member of the Celebrity Big Brother house and placed third. Fans saw a more mature, thoughtful side of him—especially when he offered support to other housemates. His time in the house marked a turning point, expanding his fanbase far beyond Chelsea’s borders.
Celebs Go Dating
Sam’s appearances on Celebs Go Dating quickly became fan favourites. He wasn’t always lucky in love, but he was honest, funny, and completely unfiltered. His bromance with co-stars often stole the show, and he later returned to co-host the series.
I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! (2023 Winner)
Sam’s biggest moment came in 2023 when he entered the I’m A Celebrity jungle—and left as the winner. His enthusiasm was infectious, whether he was diving into disgusting trials or comforting campmates. Viewers voted him King of the Jungle, and the win cemented his status as a national treasure.
Love Life: Sam and Zara McDermott
For the most part, Sam and Zara McDermott’s relationship has been in the spotlight. The pair began dating in 2019 and seemed smitten. However, in 2020, they briefly split after Zara admitted to cheating—a moment that caused waves on social media and even inspired storylines on Made in Chelsea.
Instead of walking away for good, they worked through it and eventually reconciled. Their decision to rebuild their relationship—away from the cameras—won them both respect.
Fast forward to 2025, and Sam and Zara are still going strong. From romantic getaways to silly Instagram videos, they’ve struck a balance between privacy and authenticity that fans appreciate.
Staying Relevant: The Podcast That Says It All
Sam and Pete Wicks, a former cast member of TOWIE, started the podcast Staying Relevant in 2022. What started as a tongue-in-cheek look at life after reality TV has turned into a huge success. With millions of monthly downloads, the podcast features celebrity guests, industry gossip, and plenty of banter.
Their chemistry is undeniable. Sam plays the excitable, self-aware joker, while Pete is the deadpan realist. Together, they offer a surprisingly insightful take on fame, friendships, and the ever-changing world of entertainment.
Speaking Up About Mental Health
Sam has always been honest about his struggles, but in recent years, he’s become an outspoken advocate for mental health—especially men’s mental health.
In 2023, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with ADHD. Rather than shy away from it, Sam shared his journey publicly, helping others feel seen and understood. He’s worked with mental health charities, spoken on national platforms, and continues to use his influence for good.
Social Media and Influencer Life
With over 2 million followers on Instagram and a thriving TikTok presence, Sam is one of the most influential reality stars in the UK. His content is a mix of fun, humour, daily life, and heartfelt messages.
He’s partnered with brands in fashion, skincare, tech, and health, but his collaborations always feel organic—never forced. People trust him, which is part of what makes him so marketable.
What’s Next for Sam Thompson?
In 2025, Sam is in demand. There are whispers of a move into primetime presenting, possibly even a regular ITV slot. He’s also expressed interest in comedy acting and has been working on a potential sketch show pilot.
His future looks bright, but if there’s one thing we’ve learned from watching Sam all these years, it’s that he’ll take it all in his stride—with a smile, a laugh, and probably a dance or two on TikTok.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Sam Thompson still dating Zara McDermott?
Yes, Sam and Zara are very much together in 2025. Their relationship is stronger than ever after overcoming past challenges.
2. What is Sam Thompson known for?
He became famous through Made in Chelsea, but has since made a name for himself through appearances on Celebrity Big Brother, Celebs Go Dating, and I’m A Celebrity.
3. Did Sam Thompson win I’m A Celebrity?
He did! Sam won the 2023 series of I’m A Celebrity, winning over viewers with his humour and kindness.
4. What podcast does Sam host?
Sam co-hosts Staying Relevant with Pete Wicks. The podcast dives into the highs and lows of life in the spotlight and is hugely popular in the UK.
5. Does Sam Thompson have ADHD?
Yes, Sam has spoken publicly about his ADHD diagnosis. He’s used his platform to raise awareness and break down stigma around mental health.
Final Thoughts
Sam Thompson isn’t just another reality star—he’s one of the few who’s managed to stay relevant, evolve, and keep people rooting for him every step of the way. Whether he’s making people laugh, opening up about real struggles, or charming millions on TV, Sam has earned his place in the nation’s heart.
And if his recent success is anything to go by, the best is yet to come.
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