Ant has to ‘take responsibility’
HOLLY AND PHIL OFFER SUPPORT TO THEIR FRIEND
PHILLIP Schofield and Holly Willoughby say Ant McPartlin must take responsibility for his actions after being arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.
The This Morning hosts appeared sombre as they addressed Ant’s recent troubles on Tuesday’s show.
Phil said they were “shocked and saddened” by the news and it was difficult for them to discuss because they were “talking about a friend”.
He added: “The overwhelming feeling we believe has to be that, no matter who you are, no matter what you do, if you get into a car having had a drink the responsibility is entirely yours.
“We wish Ant and all those involved in these sad events all the very best.”
The 42-year-old was involved in a collision with two other cars while he was driving his Mini in West London at about 4pm on Sunday. He was arrested after failing a roadside breathalyser test.
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said he has “since been released under investigation” and that inquiries continue.
Police previously confirmed that a number of individuals were treated at the scene for minor injuries, and a child passenger from one of the cars was taken to hospital to be checked as a precaution.
The Geordie presenter’s management have said he will now head back to rehab. This week’s episode of Saturday Night Takeaway, which he hosts alongside Dec Donnelly, has been cancelled.
Ant’s publicist said in a statement: “Ant has decided to go back into treatment and step down from his current TV commitments.
“He has spoken with Dec and ITV today and asked for time off for the foreseeable future. As such, Saturday Night Takeaway will not be going ahead this Saturday.”
An ITV spokesman said: “ITV has taken a joint decision with Ant and Dec’s team not to broadcast Saturday Night Takeaway this weekend.
“We will be reviewing options for the last two episodes of the series (March 31 and April 7) which would not feature Ant, who is taking time off to seek treatment.
“We very much hope that he gets the help that he needs.”