…By Alan Peterson for TDPel Media.
Ant and Dec, the beloved presenting duo, have announced that they will be stepping away from their hosting duties on Saturday Night Takeaway.
Anthony McPartlin, 44, confirmed their decision, expressing their love for the show but stating that reaching the milestone of 20 series felt like the perfect time to take a break and recharge.
A Momentous 20th Series and Farewell
Declan Donnelly, 47, joined in, mentioning that they still have an exciting 20th series ahead in 2024 and promising to make it a memorable one.
Both Ant and Dec took to Twitter to share the news, outlining their plans for special retrospectives and new segments in the upcoming series.
They also revealed that it would be their last series for a while, acknowledging that the show occupies a significant part of their year and they feel the need for a breather.
Looking Ahead to the 20th Series
Despite their decision to take a break, Ant emphasized the importance of planning the upcoming 20th series, suggesting that they are committed to making it a success.
The variety show, which originally premiered in 2002, has had its fair share of hiatuses as Ant and Dec pursued other projects between 2009 and 2013.
The Show’s Format and Success
Saturday Night Takeaway features a mix of live and pre-recorded entertainment and quiz segments.
Notable elements include an audience-based quiz centered around television adverts during an episode of an ITV program and a competition between the two hosts each series.
The show has garnered multiple awards, including three Baftas, highlighting its popularity and acclaim.
Conclusion
Ant and Dec’s decision to take a break from hosting Saturday Night Takeaway after the 20th series marks a significant milestone in their careers.
While fans will miss their presence on the show, the duo’s commitment to delivering an exceptional final series before their hiatus promises an exciting and memorable farewell.