Simon Cowell has defended his long-time friend and colleague Ant McPartlin, following his drink-driving arrest earlier this year.
The TV presenter stepped down from all his work commitments, including hosting Britain’s Got Talent, after he crashed into two cars while under the influence earlier this year.
The telly star, who has been battling a drug and alcohol addiction for years, was fined £86,000 after entering rehab for the second time – but his BGT boss Simon Cowell is confident that Ant will make a comeback next year.
Simon told the Daily Mirror, “He’s not the only person these things happen to. He’s in the public eye. It’s a wake-up call. It’s as simple as that.”
“He’s taken a step back because his health is way more important than a TV show,” he said. “I’m almost certain he’ll be back next year. And we want him back.”
As for Declan Donnelly, who was forced to present the show on his own this year, Simon said, “I have tremendous respect for him. He’s been a revelation.”
The BGT final on Sunday night saw comedian Lost Voice Guy win the £250,000 prize, and viewers were left starstruck by a surprise appearance from Channing Tatum.
