ANT McPartlin has confirmed that he’s seen first names for this year’s series of I’m A Celebrity.
However, it seems that ITV may have left Declan Donnelly out in the cold.
The fan-favourite double act have fronted the endurance show together since its inception back in 2002.
They both travel to the outback over the winter period as they preside over the camp evictions and the infamous Bushtucker Trials.
Viewers love their jolly and sarcastic humour and they are more popular than ever if the 2024 National Television Awards were anything to go by.
Last night, Ant and Dec were once again crowned as the winners in the TV presenter category, beating out the likes of Alison Hammond and Claudia Winkleman.
After they collected the gong, the forthcoming series of I’m A Celebrity was mentioned backstage.
Referring to the duo’s excitement over the project, Ant, 48, exclaimed: “We bloody do!” in response.
“It’s getting colder isn’t it. Time for a trip to Australia! Nice bit of winter sun.”
They were then asked to divulge any information they received from bosses at the commercial broadcaster.
When asked if they were able to tell us anything, Dec, 48, replied: “Well, nothing.
“Because we’ve got a meeting next Tuesday. So I’ve know absolutely nothing.”
However, Ant confirmed it was not the case for him as he hinted that ITV bosses may have given him some secret information at the star-studded event.
“I think I know a little more than you. I’ve been chatting to some people tonight.
“But I’m obviously going to mention them now. It’s really good, I’m really happy.”
A seemingly jealous Dec then asked his longtime friend and presenting partner: “Who have you been talking to?”
Comment by Rod McPhee
THE only surprise at tonight’s National Television Awards was that there were virtually no surprises.
Ant and Dec took home Presenter Award for the millionth time, Strictly bagged the Talent Show gong and I’m A Celebrity triumphed in the Entertainment category.
Kate Garraway scooping the authored documentary award for Derek’s Story was entirely deserved, but not a total shock either as she’d already done the same two years ago with Caring for Derek.
There were a few curveballs.
Emmerdale beating Goliath soaps EastEnders and Corrie was unexpected, particularly as the rivals have both boasted big storylines recently.
And though there was no doubting how hugely moving Mr Bates Vs The Post Office was for viewers this year, it was still stunning to see them bag three awards.
Does the general lack of surprises diminish the thrill of the NTAs? Not at all.
It remains one of the few awards shows which actually gauges what the majority of Brits are actually watching.
We live in a bewildering world where scandals often rock shows, in an age where streaming means the shared experience is diminished and ratings are hard to decipher.
But year in, year out NTA voters leave us in no doubt which shows they adore, which ones they’ve fallen out of love with, and which celebrities they’re prepared to back.
Look at how quickly relatively new shows like The Traitors, Bridgerton and The 1% Club have been embraced by NTA voters.
They aren’t interested in PR stunts and promotion, in highbrow actors and writers lauded by their fellow luvvies and they certainly can’t stand having what they ought to be watching dictated to them.
They tell us all loud and clear, every year, who they consider to be the best – and woe betide any telly exec who ignores them.
Before stating: “Favouritism.”
Rumoured signings currently include Loose Women star GK Barry, who was the youngest ever panelist on the daytime show.
It was a brilliant night for the duo at the annual award ceremony, as they took home a number of awards.
As well as taking home the presenting honour, the long-running jungle series was given the Bruce Forsyth Entertainment Award.
Speaking on stage, Ant gushed: “It’s really, really hard to put into words just how this feels year after year and how much it means to us that you take the time to vote for us and make us your winners.
“Honestly, it’s a joy, we know we’re not gonna win it one year but it’s not tonight, thank God.
“But thank you to everybody who works with us on our shows, we love you, we wouldn’t be here without you guys.”
Dec said: “Thank you.
“It’s really hard to put into words just how this feels and what it means to us that you take the time to vote for us.”
I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here will air on ITV1 and ITVX later this year.
