Will Ant and Dec really be sticking with ITV for another three years? Reports suggest the iconic duo is on the verge of signing a colossal £30 million ‘golden handcuffs’ deal just as they hit a major milestone birthday. What does this mean for the future of their legendary shows and the entertainment landscape? You won’t believe the details!

Television’s beloved duo, Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, are reportedly on the cusp of finalizing a staggering three-year “golden handcuffs” deal with ITV, an agreement estimated to be worth an astonishing £30 million, solidifying their enduring presence on British television screens.

This significant contract renewal is being heralded as one of the last major ‘golden handcuffs’ agreements in the television industry, a testament to ITV’s unwavering confidence in the pair’s appeal and consistent ratings success. For the network, investing in Ant and Dec represents a strategic move to secure the future of some of its highest-performing shows.

Their immense popularity among the public remains undiminished, a crucial factor in the network’s decision. The timing of this potential announcement couldn’t be more serendipitous, coinciding with both presenters preparing to celebrate their milestone 50th birthdays later this year, giving them double the reason for jubilation.

While details are still emerging, industry insiders anticipate that Ant and Dec will make the official announcement regarding this lucrative new deal in the New Year. This timing aligns perfectly with the expiration of their current contract, setting the stage for a seamless transition into their next chapter with ITV.

Both Newcastle-born stars, Ant McPartlin (born November 18, 1975) and Declan Donnelly (born September 25, 1975), began their journey in entertainment as actors before venturing into pop music under the moniker PJ and Duncan. Their transition to television presenting, however, cemented their iconic status.

Over their illustrious careers, Ant and Dec have become synonymous with some of British television’s most watched and critically acclaimed flagship programmes. Their extensive hosting credits include the much-loved SMTV Live, the adventurous I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, the spectacular Saturday Night Takeaway, and the globally popular Britain’s Got Talent.

The reported £30 million figure for this three-year term is not unprecedented in their storied history with ITV. Previous ‘golden handcuffs’ agreements include a multi-year renewable deal in 2016, also valued at an estimated £30 million over three years, alongside earlier contracts in the 2000s that reportedly reached up to £40 million, underscoring their consistent value to the network.

This impending deal not only secures their immediate future but also reinforces their unparalleled legacy within the British entertainment industry, ensuring their continued influence and entertainment contribution for years to come. The duo’s ability to consistently draw vast audiences makes them an invaluable asset in the competitive landscape of modern television.