Anthony McPartlin, of beloved presenting duo Ant & Dec, has checked into rehab, battling with “substance abuse, prescription drugs, and drinking”.
A knee injury reportedly led to the TV host’s addiction to prescription pain medication, while bouts of depression and anxiety contributed to substance and alcohol abuse.
It’s thought that Ant entered rehab last night after breaking down to his wife Lisa and Declan Donnelly, his colleague and close friend.
In an interview with The Sun, the TV personality said:
“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”.
The 41-year-old first had an operation to fix cartilage in his knee two years ago but it was “botched”.
The Sun has reported that Ant had surgery for the same injury at a different hospital last week, leaving his knee heavily bandaged and requiring him to use a wheelchair for the next six weeks.
As the news broke, there was an outpouring of support for the TV star, with many hoping that McPartlin’s actions will inspire others to ask for help.
https://twitter.com/SeanMccormack1/status/876324409983856641
https://twitter.com/Malcolm_Holt2/status/876338033611739136
Ant McPartlin is a true reminder that addiction/depression doesn't care about status, money or fame. Well done to him for speaking out🗣
— Ben Bowler (@Ben_Bowler98) June 18, 2017
It's very brave of Ant McPartlin to talk openly about his addiction & depression.
I just hope he wasn't forced into it by the tabloids.— Our Rach (@ourrachblogs) June 18, 2017
https://twitter.com/oliviawillixms/status/876341427378245633
