Presenter Caroline Flack is the favourite to replace Ant McPartlin on this year’s I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here and fans are not happy.
Currently recovering in Los Angeles following his stint in rehab, filming has already been pushed back in an attempt to accommodate Ant.
Now, should Ant choose not to go to the jungle this year, Caroline Flack is the favourite to co-present alongside Declan Donnelly.
Flack, who presented ITV2’s hit show Love Island earlier this year, is the favourite according to betting website Paddy Power.
A spokesman told The Daily Star:
Usually, Z-list celebrities are scrambling to appear on I’m A Celebrity as contestants – but now it seems like a top job might be available.
Caroline might have copped a lot of Flack for her time fronting X Factor, but her experience on Love Island should serve her well for going Down Under.
With ITV bosses yet to confirm whether Ant will travel to Australia to film the 17th series, Flack has seen her odds slashed to 6-4 after a flurry of bets.
Holly Willoughby is a second favourite with 2-1 odds, despite her representatives saying there’s ‘no chance’ she’ll present the show.
The next series is due to launch next month, so ITV don’t have long to resolve the situation.
Ant checked into rehab in June after admitting he has drink and drug problems to both his wife and co-star Dec.
He confessed he was facing a crisis with prescription drugs and alcohol, telling The Sun:
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.
Spending two months at the rehab facility, Ant was not allowed either a phone or visitors.
He is currently in California with his agent, staying away from the limelight.
A source close to the star said:
He’s gone to get away from the spotlight.
He’s in recovery and it’s important he has time and space.
Paul’s gone to provide support. He is one of his closest friends.
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Ant and Dec have hosted the popular show together since 2002.
Despite Dec previously saying he had no intention on working without Ant on any ‘major’ show, ITV may need to find another presenter.
Fans are not happy though with the choice of Flack though.
One commented:
I would rather they cancel this year till he’s fit and well. There’s no Dec without Ant like no Phil without Holly!
Another added:
Worst suggestion ever!
She was hopeless on X Factor and Love Island!
She sucks at presenting!
Leave her in the corner licking envelopes where she belongs.
With this reaction, ITV probably need to rethink their options. We want Stephen Mulhern!
