30 Facts About Ant McPartlin

Early Life and Background

Ant McPartlin, one half of the famous British TV duo Ant & Dec, has a fascinating life story. Let's dive into some interesting facts about his early years and background.

1. Born in Newcastle
   Ant McPartlin was born on November 18, 1975, in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. This northern city is known for its vibrant culture and history.

2. Full Name
   His full name is Anthony David McPartlin. He often goes by "Ant," a nickname that has stuck with him throughout his career.

3. First TV Appearance
   Ant made his first TV appearance on the children's show "Why Don't You?" at the age of 13. This early exposure to television set the stage for his future career.

4. Parents' Occupations
   His mother, Christine, worked as a cleaner, while his father, Raymond, was a publican. They provided a humble yet supportive environment for Ant's budding career.

5. Schooling
   Ant attended Rutherford Comprehensive School in Newcastle. It was here that he developed an interest in acting and performing.

Career Beginnings

Ant's career took off when he teamed up with Declan Donnelly. Together, they became one of the most beloved duos in British television history.

6. Byker Grove
   Ant and Dec first met on the set of the children's drama series "Byker Grove" in 1989. Ant played the character PJ, while Dec played Duncan.

7. Formation of PJ & Duncan
   After "Byker Grove," Ant and Dec formed a pop duo called PJ & Duncan, named after their characters from the show. They released several hit singles in the 1990s.

8. First Single
   Their debut single, "Tonight I'm Free," was released in 1993. It marked the beginning of their music career.

9. Chart Success
   PJ & Duncan's single "Let's Get Ready to Rhumble" reached number 9 on the UK Singles Chart in 1994. The song remains a fan favorite.

10. Transition to Hosting
    In the late 1990s, Ant and Dec transitioned from music to television hosting. Their first major gig was hosting the Saturday morning show "SM:TV Live."

Rise to Fame

Ant and Dec's chemistry and charm quickly made them household names. Their rise to fame is filled with memorable moments and achievements.

11. Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway
    In 2002, they launched "Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway," a variety show that became a massive hit. The show features pranks, games, and celebrity guests.

12. I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!
    Ant and Dec began hosting "I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!" in 2002. The reality show, set in the Australian jungle, has become a staple of British TV.

13. Britain's Got Talent
    In 2007, they started hosting "Britain's Got Talent," a talent competition that showcases a wide range of performers. The show has produced numerous stars.

14. National Television Awards
    Ant and Dec have won the National Television Award for Best Presenter a record number of times. Their winning streak began in 2001 and continues to this day.

15. BAFTA Recognition
    In 2014, they received the BAFTA Special Award for their outstanding contribution to television. This prestigious honor highlights their impact on the industry.

Personal Life

Beyond the glitz and glamour of showbiz, Ant has a personal life filled with ups and downs. Here are some key facts about his life off-screen.

16. Marriage to Lisa Armstrong
    Ant married makeup artist Lisa Armstrong in 2006. The couple had been together for over a decade before tying the knot.

17. Struggles with Addiction
    Ant has been open about his struggles with addiction. In 2017, he entered rehab to seek treatment for prescription drug and alcohol issues.

18. Divorce
    In 2018, Ant and Lisa announced their separation. Their divorce was finalized in 2020, ending their 23-year relationship.

19. New Relationship
    Ant began dating Anne-Marie Corbett, his former personal assistant, in 2018. The couple got engaged in 2020 and married in 2021.

20. Love for Dogs
    Ant is a dog lover and has two pet dogs, Hurley and Milo. He often shares pictures of them on social media.

Fun Facts

Ant's life is filled with quirky and fun tidbits that fans love to hear about. Here are some lesser-known facts that add color to his personality.

21. Football Fan
    Ant is an avid supporter of Newcastle United Football Club. He often attends matches and shows his support for the team.

22. Height
    Ant stands at 5 feet 8 inches tall. His height is often a topic of playful banter between him and Dec, who is slightly shorter.

23. Nickname Origins
    The nickname "Ant" was given to him by his friends during his school days. It has stuck with him ever since.

24. Favorite Food
    Ant's favorite food is Italian cuisine. He particularly enjoys a good pizza or pasta dish.

25. Philanthropy
    Ant is involved in various charitable activities. He supports causes related to mental health, addiction recovery, and children's welfare.

Awards and Achievements

Ant's career is decorated with numerous awards and accolades. These achievements highlight his talent and dedication to the entertainment industry.

26. OBE Honor
    In 2016, Ant and Dec were awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for their services to broadcasting and entertainment.

27. Guinness World Record
    Ant and Dec hold the Guinness World Record for the most National Television Awards won consecutively. Their streak is unmatched in the industry.

28. TV Choice Awards
    They have won multiple TV Choice Awards, including Best Entertainment Show for "Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway."

29. Royal Television Society Awards
    Ant and Dec have received several Royal Television Society Awards, recognizing their excellence in television hosting.

30. Hollywood Walk of Fame
    In 2019, Ant and Dec were honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This accolade cements their status as international television icons.

Ant McPartlin: A Remarkable Journey

Ant McPartlin's life is a fascinating blend of talent, resilience, and success. From his early days on "Byker Grove" to becoming a household name with "Ant & Dec," he's shown incredible versatility. His struggles with addiction and subsequent recovery highlight his strength and determination. Ant's numerous awards, including multiple BAFTAs, underscore his impact on British television. His love for animals, especially his dogs, adds a personal touch to his public persona. Whether he's hosting "I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!" or making us laugh on "Saturday Night Takeaway," Ant's charm and wit are undeniable. His journey, filled with highs and lows, serves as an inspiration to many. Ant McPartlin isn't just a TV presenter; he's a testament to perseverance and passion. Here's to many more years of entertainment and success for this remarkable individual.