He was missing for much of a chunk of last year’s series and Ant McPartlin nearly broke down as he made his much publicised return to Britain’s Got Talent.
While he appeared on screen during the audition stages for the last series of BGT, Ant was absent for all of the live semi finals and the final, after his drink driving conviction following a car crash in March of last year.
But any concerns he had over how he’d be received on his return to the show were put to bed on Friday when he received a rapturous welcome from the audience for the start of the 2019 auditions at the London Palladium.
Addressing the audience before auditions began at the famous venue, Ant’s best pal and co-host Dec Donnellyant said: “We’ve got the judges back, the golden buzzer is back, and someone else is back.
“My co-host for the series, would you please welcome… Mr Ant McPartlin.”
Ant’s introduction received an amazing reaction from those present, leaving the 43 year old choked up.
He said: “Hello everyone. Oh god, I’m really really emotional now. I’ve missed you all. As for you (pointing at Dec) I’ve missed you.
“Thank you very much, what a warm welcome. What a great show to come back to, I’m thrilled, I’m over the moon.
“Shall we move on before I cry?”
Britain’s Got Talent judge Simon Cowell also referenced Ant’s comeback, saying “Ant welcome back. We missed you; it wasn’t the same.
“I mean even though Dec was brilliant, it still wasn’t the same. It would be like me not being with David (Walliams), I would be happy, but not happy – if that makes sense.
“So on behalf of all of us, welcome back, we’re family. (Turns to audience) You are family!”
