Aitch refected on a year where he introduced himself to a new legion of fans
Aitch with Oasis legend Noel Gallagher(Image: instagram/aitch)
I’m A Celebrity star Aitch has said that his life is ‘like a movie’ as the Manchester rapper’s fans exclaimed ‘what a year’.
The New Moston native is one of the UK’s fastest rising musicians, becoming a household name in 2018 with the release of his debut single Straight Rhymez. Going on to win a Brit Award and release two albums, the 25-year-old, whose real name is Harrison James Armstrong, has collaborated with the likes of AJ Tracey, Ashanti, Ed Sheeran and Anne-Marie.
Aitch has even played on the Pyramid Stage and travelled to festivals around the world in spite of him being still relatively early into his years. While his fans are known for being part of a younger demographic, Aitch introduced himself to a new legion of people last month.
Flying to Australia, Aitch was one of 12 celebrities who competed on the latest edition of Ant and Dec’s ITV reality show I’m A Celebrity. Much was made during his time in the jungle of his friendship with EastEnders actress Shona McGarty.
The rumour mill began spinning when Aitch said he had a ‘soft spot’ for the Shona, who recently began pursuing a music career, during a chat with his pal and fellow campmate Angry Ginge, who he is close friends with away from the show.
Fans were adamant that they sensed sparks, with presenters Ant and Dec teasing they wanted a jungle romance. However, both Shona and Aitch have both put the rumours to bed since leaving I’m A Celebrity.
“I mean, I’m like over 10 years older than him, and honestly, the rumours are rubbish. He is like my little brother, I was like his older sister, and we just had the same energy level, we were just hyper and silly, and that’s why we got on,” Shona said on Lorraine.
Aitch with his sister Gracie(Image: instagram/aitch)
Aitch ended up finishing in fourth place, missing out on a place in a final which was won by Ginge. However, he appeared delighted that it was his good pal who was crowned king of the jungle.
Taking to Instagram on New Year’s Eve, Aitch was one of many stars who were in a reflective mood ahead of welcoming 2026. Sharing images from the past 12 months, Aitch reminded his fans that he climbed Kilimanjaro in January.
Joined by his dad Mike, Aitch took on the challenge to raise money and support for the Down Syndrome Association. Over the years, Aitch has been vocal about raising awareness for Down’s syndrome, with his little sister Gracie having it.
Aitch captioned his new post: “Started the year climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, finished it in the jungle. Dropped the number 1 independent album somewhere in between, along with some other stuff! Life’s a movie. Thank You.”
The comments section of the post saw a number of Aitch’s close friends and fans congratulating him on a hectic year and wishing him further success heading into 2026.
Tom Read Wilson, who finished in second place on I’m A Celebrity, said: “You are wondrous x.” @defilippo_giulia78 added: “What an amazing year you’ve had, can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store for you.”
@krice1998 wrote: “Your going straight to the top, you are more than deserving of everything coming your way.” @lucynicole1993 stated: “Best day of the year was meeting you in Portsmouth for your CD signing.”
@limaxart commented: “Amazing, Happy New year @aitch hope you have an incredible 2026.” @miss_hollie_ posted: “Highlight of my year was meeting you at your album signing absolute legend. Happy new year Aitch.”