By The British Herald | Entertainment & Society
A surprising new report is setting social media alight this week: Anthony McPartlin is said to be preparing to step away from ITV within the next six months, with sources claiming he and longtime TV partner Declan Donnelly are quietly working on a £3.5 million plan to open a rural dog sanctuary.
🐾 A New Chapter Beyond Television?
According to industry insiders, McPartlin has been scaling back production meetings and reportedly cleared a large portion of his 2025 calendar. While ITV has yet to confirm any formal departure, one senior figure in the network told The British Herald:
“Ant has been open about needing time away from the spotlight. The idea of a long-term, off-screen project involving animals isn’t out of character — it’s just the scale that’s surprising.”
If true, the sanctuary would be based in the West Country, near a private property jointly owned by McPartlin and Donnelly, and would include:
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Rescue and rehabilitation for abandoned dogs
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An adoption and rehoming centre
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A training programme for rescue animals to become therapy dogs
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On-site vet care and community outreach facilities
🤝 Dec in on the Plan?
While McPartlin may take the lead, sources say Declan Donnelly is also financially involved, acting as both co-investor and behind-the-scenes organiser. One source close to the duo revealed:
“They’ve been passionate about dogs for years. This isn’t a gimmick — they see this as legacy work.”
The sanctuary will reportedly be run as a non-profit venture, with all proceeds reinvested into expansion and care services.
📺 What About ITV?
There is no official announcement of McPartlin’s departure from ITV, but producers are reportedly “bracing for a temporary pause” in his on-air duties. The next season of Saturday Night Takeaway has already been confirmed as the show’s last “for a while,” with Ant and Dec both citing a need for rest.
ITV declined to comment directly on McPartlin’s future but issued a general statement:
“We continue to work closely with Ant and Dec on several projects. Any long-term changes will be shared in due course.”
🐶 Public Reaction
The public response has been largely positive, with fans praising the idea of using wealth and influence to support animals in need. One viewer tweeted:
“If Ant’s stepping back from TV to save dogs, he’s a national treasure twice over.”
Another post read:
“Ant & Dec opening a dog sanctuary? This is their greatest double act yet.”
⚠️ Caution or Commitment?
While nothing has been officially confirmed, the whispers surrounding McPartlin’s next move point to a major personal shift — from celebrity host to full-time animal advocate.
Whether this is a brief hiatus or the beginning of a brand-new mission, one thing’s clear: Anthony McPartlin is preparing for something far more meaningful than just his next show.
The British Herald will continue to monitor developments closely.