As jungle heroics earn fan praise, the soap star opens up about her future beyond Mandy Dingle

Mandy Today, Mogul Tomorrow?

Lisa Riley has never been one to stay in one lane—and now, the Emmerdale actress is eyeing a major shift. Known to millions as the fiery and loveable Mandy Dingle, Lisa revealed she has a long-standing dream that could take her well beyond the Dales.

Speaking on the Celebrity Side Hustles podcast, the 49-year-old star confessed:
“I would give my left arm to produce Saturday night television.”

She’s not talking about stepping in front of the camera. Lisa wants to get behind the scenes—to join the production and creative teams that shape the shows that bring the nation together every weekend.

A Performer With Big Plans

Currently delighting audiences in the I’m A Celebrity jungle alongside Jack Osbourne, Martin Kemp, and Ruby Wax, Lisa’s ambition is just as strong as ever. “As actors, you never know,” she said. “You’re only as good as your last episode.”

Despite her decades of success—including stints on Strictly Come Dancing and You’ve Been Framed!—Lisa says her drive hasn’t dimmed:
“It’s something that runs in my blood. It’s who I am.”

While she clarified that her producing dream isn’t for right now, she’s already dipped her toe in the world of behind-the-scenes work. She recalled producing a musical starring Kevin Kennedy, calling it “really successful.”

Queen of the Jungle?

Though her sights may be set on production, Lisa’s current role in the I’m A Celeb camp is earning her rave reviews. In a recent episode, she proved her bravery when fellow camper Kelly Brook screamed after a mystery creature dropped onto her hand mid-toothbrush.

Lisa sprang into action, venturing into the undergrowth to retrieve the flung toothbrush. Rapper Aitch was so impressed, he praised her in the Bush Telegraph:
“Lisa saved the day… she’s breaking the rules and everything. She’s a badman.”

Viewers agree. One fan posted:
“Lisa Riley’s winning this.”
Another added:
“She’s already the mama bear of camp.”

What Comes Next?

With jungle fans rallying behind her and a decades-long soap career under her belt, Lisa Riley is once again proving her versatility. Whether she remains on screen or heads behind the scenes, one thing is clear—Lisa’s not done dreaming.