Rumours Holly Willoughby is set to replace Ant McPartlin alongside Declan Donnelly on I’m A Celebrity branded ‘complete nonsense’
The This Morning presenter is close friends with the Geordie duo
RUMOURS that Holly Willoughby is set to replace Ant McPartlin on I'm a Celebrity as he battles his drink and drugs demons has been branded as "complete nonsense".
The Sun on Sunday exclusively revealed last month how the much loved presenter had entered rehab after struggling with substance abuse, prescription drugs and a growing dependency on alcohol.
While the 41-year-old is said to be doing well, the claims I'm a Celebrity bosses are lining up This Morning presenter Holly to take his place if he needs more time to deal with his personal issues.
Ant and his on-screen partner Declan Donnelly usually spend six weeks in Australia every year from November, but ITV have reportedly granted the star a year off from his presenting duties to get his life back on track.
A source told the Star: "I’m a Celeb is ITV’s biggest show of the year so they’re keen to get a plan in place should Ant want to continue his down time.
"Holly is the number one choice, she’s the nation’s favourite and already a huge fan of the show – the perfect Jane of the jungle to Dec’s Tarzan.
“Building on-screen chemistry and relationships is what Holly does best, which is perfect for the jungle.”
However a representative for Holly branded the claims "complete nonsense".
Despite this, the Star added that ITV were reportedly prepared to pay for Holly's children: Harry, eight, Belle, six and Chester, two, to fly out and stay with her throughout her potential time Down Under.
However, the 36-year-old isn't the only name being considered by show bosses, according to the publication, as former I'm a Celebrity spin-off presenter Caroline Flack was said to be second favourite.
Other names included Keith Lemon, Mark Wright and last year's Queen of the Jungle, Scarlett Moffatt, who has already worked with Ant and Dec on this year's Saturday Night Takeaway.
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The source added: “Holly’s the perfect cover for Ant. She’s wholesome, fun and has the experience needed to pull-off the comedy links expected of the presenters.
“That’s something which upcoming stars like Scarlett and Mark don’t have yet.
"It’s ITV’s blue chip show and there’s no way they’d risk handing Ant’s role to a wild- card signing.”
Ant and Dec have presented I'm a Celebrity since it began in 2002.
The duo reportedly signed a new three-year £30 million 'golden handcuffs' deal with ITV in November 2016.
Their other hit shows on the channel include Saturday Night Takeaway and Britain's Got Talent.
Speaking to The Sun on Sunday to reveal his rehab plans, Ant said: "The first step is to admit to yourself you need help.
“I feel like I have let a lot of people down and for that I am truly sorry.
“I want to thank my wife, family and closest friends for helping me through this really difficult time.
“I’ve spoken out because I think it’s important that people ask for help if they’re going through a rough time and get the proper treatment to help their recovery.”
The Sun Online has contacted ITV for comment on the rumours.
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