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Scarlett Moffatt ‘preparing to stand in for Ant McPartlin on Saturday Night Takeaway’

Scarlett has definitely wowed TV fans with her bubbly personality

Queen of the Jungle Scarlett Moffatt managed to bag a presenting role on Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway shortly after winning I’m A Celebrity… last year.

But it looks like the former Gogglebox star would relish taking on a bigger and more exciting role on the ITV show, should the chance arise to stand in for Ant McPartlin, who is currently in rehab for alcohol and drug issues.

It’s been reported that Scarlett would be “more than happy” to fill her co-star’s shoes and host the show alongside Declan Donnelly, 41.

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A source told Reveal magazine: “Scarlett knows that presenting rather than being a sidekick is a massive difference and requires a whole new set of skills.

“She’s been putting in extra hours taking TV-presenting lessons and learning the art of carrying a live show.

“She thinks this will help her hit the ground running if she’s given the official call-up from TV bosses.”

Speaking about how the Geordie beauty is focusing on getting her body in shape they added: “Scar is spending up to 16 hours a day working on the whole package – her body, diet and presenting skills.

“She was planning on having a real indulgent summer of eating whatever she wanted and taking a break from TV.

“But that’s all gone out the window now with the potential offer of standing in for Ant.”

Ant, 41, headed into rehab just over a week ago to get help for alcohol, drug and prescription medication addiction.

The beloved presenter reportedly wept as he told wife Lisa and best pal Dec that he needed help.

The BGT host released a statement saying: “The first step is to admit to yourself you need help.

“I feel like I have let a lot of people down and for that I am truly sorry.

“I want to thank my wife, family and closest friends for helping me through this really difficult time.

“I’ve spoken out because I think it’s important that people ask for help if they’re going through a rough time and get the proper treatment to help their recovery.”

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And opening up about his battles has definitely gained him respect from both ITV bosses and his fellow celeb friends.

Following the shocking news an ITV source revealed the presenter’s bosses have vowed to support him.

They said: “The feeling amongst senior executives is that Ant has been very brave to admit this. He’s got our total backing and he knows he can take as much time as he needs.

“If there’s anything we can do to support him in getting better then of course he only needs to ask – he’s a huge part of the ITV family and that isn’t going to change.

“He has many friends here who are right behind him, and hope to see him out of rehab and on the mend as soon as possible.

“Those close to him are very impressed by how open and honest he has been about his issues – it can’t have been easy for him and it took real courage.”

Ant’s close mates This Morning’s Phil and Holly shared a message of support for the star.

Talking on the ITV lunchtime show Phil, 55, said: “We wanted to take this moment to send our love and best wishes to our mate Ant, as you may have seen he’s checked into a rehab clinic for help with substance abuse, prescription drugs and alcohol.”

Meanwhile Ant’s presenting partner Dec shared a heartfelt message thanking fans for their support.

He wrote: “Thank you for all the kind messages and well wishes for the big fella.

“He will be touched. Your support is, as ever, much appreciated. DD xx.”


Rebecca Carter
Associate Editor (News)