How we make Takeaway!

In an exclusive interview, Ant and Dec chat to TV Times about putting on their live Saturdaynight extravaganza during a pandemic

- Steven Perkins

ANT & DEC’S SATURDAY NIGHT TAKEAWAY SATURDAY / ITV / 7PM / EP 3 of 7 / ENTERTAINMENT

Having Ant and Dec back on our screens with a new series of ITV’s Saturday Night Takeaway has been like a big warm hug for the nation. In a time of much uncertainty, they’ve gone all out to bring the country together through laughter and fun, shiny-floor family entertainment.

Here, ahead of this week’s third episode, in an exclusive interview, Ant and Dec, both 45, tell TV Times how they’re still managing to bring us the ‘happiest 90 minutes of the week’ during a global pandemic and why pandas rock!

We love that you’ve been paying tribute to as many everyday heroes as possible – will that remain a big part of your plans for the rest of the series?

DEC Yes, absolutely. We love that part of the show. So many people have gone above and beyond in the last year that it restores your faith in human nature.

ANT We always celebrate everyday heroes in the happiest minute and we will continue to do so. Going from Britain’s oldest paperboy at 80 years old, to somebody who learnt how to save their mother’s life at school, it’s every age range and we can celebrate anyone. And, of course, we have the TikTok Happiest Minute Hero this year, which is new and gives someone else a chance.

Have you had to adapt your presenting style for the new virtual audience? And what are the best – and worst! – ways for people to get your attention?