Ant and Dec have become a household name since their debut in 1988. Over the past thirty years the Geordie duo have made a success at anything they have tried, from; "Britain's Got Talent," "I'm a Celebrity..." and their very own show "Saturday Night Takeaway," two of which Declan Donnelly has already hosted successfully by himself.
Back in June, many fans were disappointed to see Dec solo host at the live finals of 'Britain's Got Talent', as the comedic banter between the duo has always been a reason to watch the show. However, by the end of the first live final show, social media could do little else but praise Donnelly's fantastic performance on the show.
Despite his success, fans still hoped that Ant would return for 'I'm a Celebrity...' which usually takes place nearer the end of the year. However, just yesterday McPartlin broke his silence and released a statement that he would not be returning to TV until 2019.
Breaking his silence
The Huffington Post quoted Ant's newest statement in which he wrote "My recovery is going very well and for that to continue having spoken to Dec and ITV, I've made the decision to take the rest of the year off" His decision to focus on his recovery was received with positive reactions.
The Daily Mail reported how fans took to Twitter to show him their praise and support, Twitter user mmegan_z wrote "So important to focus on your health rather than your career...
A brave move from Ant" while another showed their support by writing "Very brave of Ant to hault [sic] his tv commitment till 2019. I think your very brave and i think you made the best decision for u. Wishing you a speedy recovery"
McPartlin's break follows his second arrest for drink driving. Ant returned to TV after his first arrest but, some believed he came back too soon as shortly after he was in trouble once again.
His decision to take an extended break until the new year just shows that he is taking his recovery seriously this time.
ITV's Director of Television also released a statement, with The Daily Mail quoting him as having said: "ITV is completely supportive of Ant taking as much time as he needs in his recovery and of this mutual decision to rest Takeaway in 2019."
I'm a Celeb 2018
Now that Ant will not be returning to 'I'm a Celebrity...' many people are left wondering who will host the show now.
Will Dec host the show alone? or will there be temporary replacement put in place?
The Huffington Post quoted Declan Donnelly's statement in which he said, "Whilst I am obviously sad at the thought of being without my best friend in Australia this year, I am proud of the work Ant has been doing privately and I am fully supportive of his decision. I’m looking forward to us both being reunited on screen in 2019.”
According to The Daily Mail, bookmakers Coral have Scarlet Moffatt tipped at 3/1 with Stephen Mulhern also a close favourite with odds of 2/1. But no official statements have been released yet in relevance to the show, which usually begins around November.
