With the return of Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway this weekend, ITV were forced to make lots of changes to the Ant and traditional format.
Unfortunately the usual live studio audience that makes the interactive entertainment show so vibrant was axed after careful consideration from bosses.
Due to the national lockdown and social distancing restrictions, programme makers were unable to create a workaround that would ensure the safety of everyone.
As Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly revealed the new system, the latter became emotional and was seen fighting back tears as his co-host turned to console him.
Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway saw Dec get very emotional after an unexpected opening
Dec was overwhelmed by the mass of 300 live video feeds he saw in front of him, as the presenters explained that inside of a live audience they would have a virtual one instead.
The new format will continue each week, with producers expected to be switching up the lucky audience members for every live show.
The co-hosts will still be following their usual schedule as much as possible – sharing giveaways, setting up games and revealing guests’ secrets in the show’s usual heartwarming moments.
But the return of Saturday Night Takeaway was undoubtedly a very different experience to what Ant and Dec, both 45, and viewers normally see.
Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway returned with heavy restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic
Following the show’s dramatic new opening. Dec struggled to contain his emotions as the hundreds of audience members began cheering and waving at him.
“We’re gonna do our best,” he promised. “And we’ll be doing that with the help of our virtual audience every week.
“There they are, let’s say hello to this week’s audience. Hello everybody! It’s lovely to see you all.”
Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway also saw Ant consoling his co-host as he fought back the tears
Pausing to swallow back the tears, Dec then chuckled: “I’m a bit overwhelmed!”
Smiling at his friend of over 20 years in support, Ant rested his hand on Dec’s shoulder and waited for him to collect himself so their could carry on as a team.
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“For the first time ever we can see into the living rooms live of 300 people all at the same time,” Dec continued. “Make sure you are all decent please, no questionable behaviour. I’m looking at you madam!”
Saturday Night Takeaway airs Saturdays at 7pm on ITV.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
