News

Ant McPartlin reveals support he’s received from Prince Harry

Telly presenter has been very honest about battle with depression and addictions

Top telly presenter Ant McPartlin shocked the nation back in June when he admitted he was addicted to painkillers, and battling with booze and depression – and was heading to rehab to sort himself out.

Two months on, the Geordie favourite is now out and ready to reveal the full extent of his troubles.

He’s been overwhelmed by the support he’s received from everyone – some in very high places.

After leaving rehab last week, the Takeaway host was given a letter – from Prince Harry.

“It was a handwritten note from Harry sending all of his best wishes on behalf of him, William and Catherine and telling me well done for speaking out,” Ant revealed to The Sun.

“Obviously he leads the Heads Together charity, so it’s something he encourages.

“I wish I’d spoken out a lot ­earlier. But what a great time to get that letter. Brilliant. Thanks, Haz.”

In news that will stun fans, the 41-year-old has admitted that his addictions almost killed him.

Read more: Ant McPartlin checks into rehab

“I was at the point where anything — prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs — I would take,” he admitted.

“And take them with alcohol, which is ridiculous. The doctors told me, ‘You could have killed yourself’. ”

This wake-up call came during an early morning dash to Chelsea & Westminster hospital, as Ant was in excruciating pain from an ongoing knee injury.

Ant told the tabloid this was the moment he knew to unburden his secret issues to wife Lisa and best pal Declan Donnelly.

“Coming out of Chelsea and Westminster, that was when we sat down and it was decided I needed to go into rehab,” he continued.

“Dec came around and he kind of knew it was at the point where I needed help.

“Once I admitted I was in a bad way, they then helped get a team together because obviously I wasn’t in a fit state to do it myself.

“We had an hour’s conversation then I packed my bag and I went.

“I’m lucky because I have the means to do that. But there are a lot of people who don’t. So I’m very grateful.”

Read more: Joyful news for I’m A Celebrity fans

The Sun reports that the ITV star looks better than he has in some time – he’s lost a stone in weight and looks bright-eyed.

Here’s to his continued recovery – and return to our screens soon.


Kaggie Hyland
Editor-in-Chief

Related Topics