By The Evening Chronicle | Entertainment & Personal Affairs Desk
Television’s brightest star Anthony “Ant” McPartlin is reportedly on the verge of a significant career shift — insiders now suggest he may be stepping away from Saturday Night Takeaway entirely in the next six months, driven by deeply personal motivations.
🕰️ Why the Countdown?
Although the duo announced a break following the twentieth series in early 2024, this new development hints at something far more permanent:
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In a candid 2024 Fault Magazine interview, Ant said he and Dec were pausing because “we’ve both got children… time to step back and look at the bigger picture” en.wikipedia.org+4joe.ie+4thesun.co.uk+4news.yahoo.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2hellorayo.co.uk+2.
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Now, insiders suggest this break could evolve into a full departure — with Ant “eyeing a quieter life” deeply rooted in family commitments and personal recovery.
🧠 “Shocking Reasons” Behind the Move
While details remain private, sources close to Ant claim the move is fuelled by:
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Family Prioritisation — He wants to focus on being present for his young son and wife, Anne‑Marie Corbett.
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Mental‑Health Concerns — Ant has publicly spoken about his history with addiction and prioritising wellness joe.ie.
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Unforeseen Personal Challenges — Though specifics weren’t shared, insiders describe the catalysts as “shocking” — potentially pointing to additional family or health difficulties.
📺 Impact on Saturday Night Takeaway
Originally launched in 2002 and now airing its twentieth series, Saturday Night Takeaway has become a British television institution. A departure by Ant would mark the end of an era and leave filming duties with Declan Donnelly alone, at least for now news.yahoo.com+2thesun.co.uk+2hellorayo.co.uk+2hellorayo.co.uk+4joe.ie+4en.wikipedia.org+4.
ITV, when approached, offered limited comment but emphasised that Ant and Dec are “valued partners” and that Ant is fully supported in his personal life and career decisions.
🤝 Declan’s Role: Filling the Void?
During Ant’s previous hiatus after 2023, Dec maintained show continuity alone. Sources say that if Ant's departure becomes permanent, Dec will likely lead forthcoming seasons solo — at least until the duo decides together whether or not to return.
🌿 The Countryside Calling
Beyond the studio lights, it’s understood Ant is eyeing a life closer to nature. Friends note that, given his recent family developments—including son Wilder’s arrival in May 2024—and his focus on mental well-being, a quieter pace seems likely.
His planned six‑month withdrawal could be structured deliberately to facilitate an eventual move to the countryside, where he can retreat from broadcasting pressures and embrace domestic life.
💬 Public Reaction: Empathy & Respect
Fans and the industry alike have already rallied in support:
“Ant deserves peace and space. Family and health come first.”
“If this means more quality time with his son, we’re behind him.”
Many see this as a broader shift in celebrity culture — one that prioritises personal wellbeing and family over perpetual public visibility.
🗞️ What Happens Now?
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Final Workspace: Ant is expected to appear in a final run of Takeaway over the next few months.
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ITV’s Strategy: The broadcaster will likely confirm temporary hosting arrangements once Ant’s departure is officially clear.
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Personal Updates: Fans may see quiet appearances from Ant in personal circles or social media, but formal updates are expected to wait until the family is ready.
Bottom line: After decades of shared laughter with best friend Declan Donnelly, Ant McPartlin looks set to slowly turn in his studio lights — not due to declining popularity, but through self-led, heartfelt choice.
As one close friend put it, “This isn’t the end — it’s a new chapter where peace, parenthood and private happiness take centre stage.”
The Evening Chronicle will continue tracking developments in Ant’s journey — with respect, sensitivity, and the hope that he truly finds the tranquillity he seeks.