Ant McPartlin back after rehab as I'm a Celebrity kicks off

Ant McPartlin has returned to television screens following his stint in rehab – with I'm a Celebrity co-host Declan Donnelly joking he had been replaced.

The presenting duo opened with a joke talking about Ant's return.

"It's me and the gorgeous Holly Willoughby!" joked Dec.

"Wait, no! Guys that's the wrong script! You've put the wrong script in!"

He followed with: "No one was sure if you'd make it!'"

McPartlin thanked fans for their support and said: "I was always going to make it, come on. I'm back my friend", as the two hugged.

McPartlin in June admitted to going into rehab for painkiller addiction. The problem is believed to have stemmed from a knee operation in 2015.

He told the Sun on Sunday in June :"I feel like I have let a lot of people down and for that I am truly sorry."

"I've spoken out because I think it's important that people ask for help if they're going through a rough time and get the proper treatment to help their recovery."

:: Ant McPartlin 'checks into rehab for prescription drug and drink problems'

The presenter, 42, who celebrated his birthday over the weekend, tweeted to fans: "Aaaaaaannnddd, we're off!! It's good to be back. Enjoy! A".

The presenting duo were awarded OBEs in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

McPartlin is married to his long-time partner Lisa Armstrong.

:: Ant And Dec Make 'Mams' Proud With OBEs

ITV colleague Simon Cowell was among those sending McPartlin his best wishes.

And the presenter also revealed to the Sun in June that Prince Harry had sent him a letter of support.

He said: "I woke up this morning, getting ready to come here, and was given an envelope,"

"It was a handwritten note from Harry sending all of his best wishes on behalf of him, William and Catherine and telling me well done for speaking out.

"Obviously he leads the Heads Together charity, so it's something he encourages."