ITV confirmed yesterday that Declan Donnelly will be presenting the live shows of Britain’s Got Talent alone this year.
This follows his recent solo stints on the final two episodes of Saturday Night Takeaway, after his co-star Ant McPartlin stepped away from his TV work to concentrate on his well-publicised personal problems.
But the latter will still make his mark on this year’s show, as audition episodes were filmed with both Geordie faves earlier this year. (Hooray.)
And, as the show returns this Saturday evening, Ant gets emotional watching one hopeful’s performance.
Read more: BGT send message to Ant as they put all faith in Dec flying solo
Watching from the side of the stage, Ant tells viewers: “I can’t stop the tears from falling.”
According to The Sun, this particular act gave everyone a little lump in the throat – so be warned!
Ant and Dec began filming Britain’s Got Talent in January and, although you would not spot from Ant’s professional performance, his personal life was not in the best place.
The same month he announced his separation from wife of 11 years, make-up artist Lisa Armstrong.
Ant had appeared to be moving on with his life, after spending some time in rehab last year for issues with alcohol and addiction to painkillers.
But last month, the 42-year-old was charged with drink-driving following an incident in south-west London, and made the decision to return to treatment.
Read more: Stephen Mulhern says ITV refused to replace him when he became ill during BGT auditions
Yesterday, ITV showed their support for Ant, which confirming Dec would tackle the live BGT shows alone, saying: “We send Ant all our love and we know Dec will do a brilliant job.”
Other BGT colleagues have also stepped in and showed their support for Ant.
Last week, judge David Walliams said: “Ant and Dec are very relatable. It’s hard as they want you to be smiley and happy but you’re going through something that causes you pain.”
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