Ant and Dec offered a very public show of support to Stephen Mulhern as he stepped into their shoes to host a Britain's Got Talent special on Sunday night.
While it was confirmed when The Ultimate Magician was filmed back in October, that Ant and Dec wouldn't be hosting it, due to them both testing positive for Covid, it still came as something of a surprise to viewers who tuned into watch the special episode, that ur wasn't Ant and Dec at the helm.
Their forced absence from the special; episode was addressed by an ITV spokesperson at the time who said; "Ant and Dec are both unwell and have postponed all work commitments until they recover.
"Sadly, this means they were unable to film Britain’s Got Talent: The Ultimate Magician. Whilst we wish them a speedy recovery, we are thrilled to confirm that BGT’s favourite magician, Stephen Mulhern has stepped in."
READ MORE: Ant and Dec confirm TV return after Britain's Got Talent absence
Given that he was a magician, before finding TV fame on shows like SMTV and Catchphrase, Stephen was a very apt replacement for Ant and Dec and showing there were absolutely no sour grapes on their behalf, Ant and Dec took to Twitter before The Ultimate Magician went out on ITV on Sunday to share their excitement for the show.
Sharing a BGT teaser featuring judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and David Walliams, alongside guest panellist and magic legend Penn Jillette, the Geordie duo wrote: "Looking forward to this tonight!" alongside heart eyed and wand emojis.
While, prior to watching the show,. one fan told the presenters: "Won't be the same without you," after it aired, another responded: "I really think @StephenMulhern did you proud guys... and how on Earth did Professor X do that!! It’s magic." Another fan agreed, commenting: "Me too, its about time @StephenMulhern had his own Magic Show."
*Strictly final prompts 'tactical' Channel 5 move to attract fans
*Gemma Atkinson's Strictly tears as Helen Skelton pays emotional tribute to Gorka Marquez
*Gorka Marquez shuts down 'sore loser' jibes with Jowita reply
*Helen Skelton's Strictly chances 'hindered' by judges' decision as fans complain
*Strictly's Helen Skelton highlights crowd 'reaction' as she breaks silence after final defeat
