The popular TV presenter – who announced his struggle with alcohol and prescription drugs back in June – is currently recuperating in Los Angeles following a recent two month stint in rehab.
And as he takes some time away from the UK, production for the ITV show has been “put on hold”.
A promotional shot at London’s Pinewood Studios has reportedly been pushed back until the Geordie star is ready to resume his hosting duties alongside Declan Donnelly.
“It would have been the first day filming but with Ant away, there is no way they could get started,” a source told The Sun.
Ant touched down at LAX last Wednesday with his agent and beamed to photographers as he passed through the airport.
A source added “He’s gone to get away from the spotlight. He’s in recovery and it’s important he has time and space.”
The news comes just weeks before crew-members prepare to jet to New South Wales, Australia to film the seventeenth series.
In August, it was finally revealed Ant would be returning with Dec to front the long-running programme this winter.
ITV boss Kevin Lygo confirmed to Radio Times: “Ant is doing really well and we’re expecting him to return to I’m A Celebrity, so we won’t be resting it.”
I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! returns to ITV later this year
Express.co.uk has contacted Ant McPartlin’s representative and ITV for comment.
Daily Express :: TV and Radio Feed
