Holly Willoughby reveals Ant McPartlin is happy she’s taking on I’m A Celebrity but says it will be ‘weird’ for Declan Donnelly
The 37-year-old revealed that Ant was part of the decision making process when it came to his replacement this year
HOLLY Willoughby has revealed that Ant McPartlin has given his seal of approval for her to co-host I’m A Celebrity with Declan Donnelly in his absence.
Last month it was revealed that Holly was stepping into Ant's shoes Down Under, as the 42-year-old takes the rest of the year off from TV commitments, after he spent time in rehab and was fined £86,000 for drink-driving.
“Ant was part of the discussion from the off.
“He’s happy that I’m looking after it until he gets back. It does help that we all know each other.”
She added: "I think I’m A Celeb will be more weird for Dec than for me. He’s only ever worked with Ant.”
Her comment comes just a day after Ant revealed that he has been sober for six months after a public battle with alcohol.
The star celebrated the moment with his long term pal Simon Hargreaves, who praised him for his "strength and determination" in facing his problems.
In a message from Simon shared by McPartlin on Ant and Dec's official Twitter page, he wrote: "Long overdue catch up with my buddy of 20+ years for lunch this week. 6 months sober, annoyingly healthy looking, and happier than I've seen him in years.
";Immensely proud of this lad for his strength and determination to face up to his issues and get help.";
Ant replied: "Thanks pal. Really appreciate it. Lovely seeing you too. It really was long overdue. #weloveagoodlunch," signing off with his initial A.
The TV star's battle with alcohol came to a head in March when he crashed his Mini while over twice the drink-drive limit and was banned from driving for 20 months and handed an £86,000 fine.
It was subsequently announced he would take a step back from his television work.
Holly, who has worked with the presenting duo on and off for years, will fill in for him when the new series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! begins filming later this year.
Ant and Dec have presented the show together since it began in 2002.
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