Jump directly to the content

ANT McPartlin's emotional last TV appearance on Britain's Got Talent will be aired tonight as he congratulates the contestants going through to live semi-finals.

The pre-recorded episode is the last time the 42-year-old will be on screen after cancelling all his telly work and checking into rehab  following a drink-drive charge.

 Ant McPartlin will appear alongside Declan Donnelly for the final time on Britain's Got Talent tonight
4
Ant McPartlin will appear alongside Declan Donnelly for the final time on Britain's Got Talent tonightCredit: ITV

It leaves co-host Declan Donnelly to present the live shows solo when they begin next week.

The Geordie duo aren't expected to appear together on-screen until much later in the year when they reunite for I'm A Celebrity.

In a now poignant moment, Ant's last time on camera sees him congratulating a successful contestant before bidding them farewell and saying they'll see each other again.

His final on-screen words are to the hopeful, as he says: "Howay the lads. Well done. Go and celebrate - we'll see you next time kidda. Toot toot."

 In happier scenes on the show, Ant gets on stage to perform a dance with one hopeful
4
In happier scenes on the show, Ant gets on stage to perform a dance with one hopefulCredit: ITV
 DJ Murray Mint managed to get both the Geordie presenters and the judges on stage
4
DJ Murray Mint managed to get both the Geordie presenters and the judges on stageCredit: ITV

But it's not all filled with sadness for Ant as he also gets a chance to get up on stage and dance with Dec and judges Simon Cowell, David WalliamsAmanda Holden and Alesha Dixon.

They run onto the stage waving Union Jack flags and wearing funky digital display sunglasses as hopeful DJ Murray Mint gets everyone moving.

But is it enough to get through to the semi-finals?

Meanwhile Dec's preparing to go it alone from Monday night - making it the second time this year he's had to present solo.

 DJ Murray Mint gets even Simon Cowell up on his feet and dancing
4
DJ Murray Mint gets even Simon Cowell up on his feet and dancingCredit: Rex Features

Each night, eight acts will perform in the semi-finals, with two acts making it through to next weekend’s final.

He’s told TV Mag previously that not watching himself back on TV and not engaging with social-media critics is usually how he copes.

“You can’t do anything about live stuff once it’s done,” says Dec, 42.

“At times the criticism stings, but not often. Usually it’s a case of: ‘Look at you with your 11 [Twitter] followers. You’re brave.’”

  • Britain's Got Talent will air tonight on ITV at 8pm

Got a story? email [email protected] or call us direct on 02077824220.

We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.