Holly Willoughby confirmed to replace Ant McPartlin and co-host I’m A Celeb – Declan Donnelly says he can’t wait

HOLLY Willoughby has been confirmed as Declan Donnelly's co-host for I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, The Sun can reveal.

The This Morning presenter, 37, has now signed a contract and will be heading Down Under later this year to replace Ant McPartlin, 42.

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Last week we told how she had held secret talks with ITV bosses about standing in for Ant on the juggernaut series while he continues his recovery from drug addiction.

She discussed joining Dec, also 42, with her This Morning co-host Phillip Schofield, 56, on today's show.

Holly said: “I couldn’t be more excited to have been asked to stand alongside Dec for the next jungle adventure.

"I love Ant and want to send him my best wishes and support for a continued recovery. These are big shoes, not to fill, but just to keep warm for a little bit."

Hours after her announcement Ant, who is staying off the telly for the rest of the year, was pictured looking happier than ever on holiday with his new love Anne-Marie Corbett.

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Holly added: "Honestly, I’m a huge fan of I’m a Celebrity and actually feel like I’ve won a competition to go and hang out on my favourite show. When is it a good time to tell Dec I’m scared of everything that moves.”

Her new colleague Dec, who was expected to host the long-running series alone after Ant checked into rehab following his drink drive crash earlier this year, said the blonde bombshell was "top of his list" to replace his best friend.

He said: "I am hugely grateful to Holly for agreeing to accompany me to Australia this year.

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"She was at the top of my list and I’m thrilled she said yes. It will be a different kind of series but we will try our best to ensure it is no less fun and eventful for our loyal viewers.

"I am also pleased to hear Holly is scared of everything. I am almost stupidly excited at the thought of watching her during the eating trials."