Birthday boy Ant good luck tweet to Dec

ANT McPartlin sent a good luck message to Declan Donnelly and Holly Willoughby as I’m A Celebrity kicked off on his birthday yesterday – the first in decades he has spent without his pal.

For years Ant, 43, has celebrated the big day in Australia with Dec, but this year Holly is there in his place as he recovers from drink and prescription drug issues.

The troubled star, reported to be on holiday abroad with girlfriend Anne-Marie Corbett, tweeted yesterday: “All the very best of luck to the little fella and hollywills for the show tonight. TWEET Ant tweets his support Lots of love from the big fella!!”

Earlier Dec posted a photo of himself and Ant dressed as Homer and Marge from The Simpsons. Ant replied: “D’oh thanks kidda.”

Friends yesterday denied reports Dec could ditch Ant for good and pursue a solo TV career. A source said: “There is no rebrand of Dec as a solo act, he is very much looking forward to working with Ant again in 2019.”

Just last week Dec said of being in the jungle without Ant: “I’m going to really miss him, but it’s only for one series – and he will be back stronger next year.”

HOLIDAY Ant McPartlin