Ant and Dec share behind the scenes snap from new 'Saturday Night Takeaway' filming

Ant and Dec have shared a snap from behind-the-scenes at the "covid-compliant" filming of Saturday Night Takeaway.

The photo comes as it was confirmed back in October that the weekend entertainment programme would be making its way back to screens in 2021.

In the snap posted to Twitter, Dec appears concerned as he stares into the camera while his frightened looking co-star sits shackled to a chair.

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"What the hell’s going on here? We’re back at work that’s what! Bit of covid-compliant @itvtakeaway filming... Who’s excited for the new series?" the caption teased.

While Saturday Night Takeaway is typically broadcast live, it has also featured pre-filmed skits and stunts. A launch date for the series has not yet been announced but it typically starts airing in February.

Last year, the programme had its final few episodes filmed without a studio audience for the first time in its history due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In previous series the live studio audience has been integral to the programme as they are recruited to join in for segments of the show.

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The series finale in 2020 was set to take place in Florida, however, due to the pandemic the hosts reflected on the show's best bits from the safety of their own homes.

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The Geordie duo returned to host the finals of Britain's Got Talent in the autumn after the final stage of the competition had to be delayed.

They also returned to front I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! in November as the series relocated from Australia to Wales for the first time amid the pandemic.