Britain’s Got Talent’s Simon Cowell says he’s standing by Ant McPartlin.
Simon has backed the TV host after his return to rehab following a car crash last month.
In a new interview, Simon showed his support for Ant after the Geordie stepped down from TV commitments.
While Ant is currently appearing in pre-recorded scenes, he will miss out on the live shows next month.
“We’ve known each other a long time, and you stand by the people you work with over the years, for the obvious reasons,” Simon said. “We always stand by our friends. We’re all human.
“The most important thing is he’s manned up, he’s going to get himself back together. And the show goes on, it’s as simple as that.”
Speaking to The Sun newspaper, Simon said Ant would be welcome back to host the 2019 series: “Of course. This is what happens.
“This is happening to people all over the world. People, for whatever reason, they get into a rut and at times like this you stand by your mates. It’s always been that way.”
Simon’s comments come as Ant prepares for court after being charged with drink driving following his crash.
According to The Sun, Ant is expected to plead guilty after his original court date earlier this month was postponed.
“The plan at this stage is for him to plead guilty. He is obviously gutted about the whole thing and wants to focus on getting better,” a source alleged to the tabloid. “He has a lot to do to prove himself again. Hopefully this is the first step.”
Britain’s Got Talent continues Saturday nights on ITV.
Dec will host the live shows solo later in the year.
