Declan Donnelly ‘would never’ host I’m A Celebrity without Ant McPartlin as his long-time pal continues rehab stint – not even with Holly Willoughby
Dec has reportedly told pals that he wouldn't do the long-running jungle reality show without his pal
DECLAN Donnelly has reportedly told pals that he won't be back for I'm a Celebrity this year if his partner-in-crime Ant McPartlin is still in rehab.
The Geordie duo have fronted the jungle-based reality show since it first launched in 2002, and is said to not be interested in going the show alone, or with another partner.
Pals told that Dec has no intention on working without Ant on any "major" show, and added: "He has said the last thing he would do is go to Australia without him."
They also branded the rumour that Holly Willoughby could replace Ant in the interim as "ridiculous", and said: "He is a good friend of hers but he would not do that to Ant."
A source told the last week: “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, Holly's team have also branded the claims as "complete nonsense".
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The Geordie duo usually spend six weeks in Australia every year from November - and it is hoped that Ant will recover in time for his next scheduled trip to the Outback.
In June, Ant checked into a rehab facility to beat his battle with substance abuse, prescription drugs and booze.
Making the decision to go public with his battle, Ant revealed he would be spending two months in the facility in order to get clean.
He told The Sun on Sunday: “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," he added.
“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.”
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