Ant & Dec Left Emotional After 23-Year Winning Streak Ends: “Sad but Proud”
London, UK – After more than two decades of dominance in the Best TV Presenter category at the National Television Awards (NTAs), beloved duo Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly – the faces of British television – have finally had to surrender their long-held crown to Gary Lineker. The moment marked not only a major shift in the NTAs but also left the veteran presenters with a bittersweet mix of sorrow and gratitude.
In a video message to fans from South Africa, where they are currently filming I’m A Celebrity… South Africa, Ant & Dec admitted to feeling a profound sense of loss: “It’s truly heartbreaking. After 23 years, stepping onto the NTA stage had become such a huge part of our lives. To no longer hear our names called in that moment feels like losing something sacred.”
Yet, the duo showed nothing but respect for their successor. They praised Gary Lineker – the former footballer and veteran broadcaster – for his heartfelt speech about using his platform to speak up for those without a voice. “Gary absolutely deserved this. His speech touched all of us,” Dec reflected, while Ant described Lineker as “a wonderful colleague, respected across the nation.”
For more than 23 years, Ant & Dec have been far more than TV presenters – they’ve become part of the cultural fabric of British entertainment. From SMTV Live to Saturday Night Takeaway, from Britain’s Got Talent to I’m A Celebrity…, their presence has shaped generations of viewers and built a legacy few can match.
Losing their crown at this year’s NTAs, many believe, is not the end of their story but rather a moment to reflect on the extraordinary journey they’ve taken. In their message to fans, the pair emphasized: “We will keep doing what we love most – bringing joy to audiences. Awards are an honor, but it’s the viewers who remain our greatest motivation.”
A chapter may have closed, but for Ant & Dec, the journey is far from over. And for millions of loyal fans, their status as the nation’s presenters will never be easily replaced
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