Popular ITV presenters Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly have been forced to issue a public apology and delete a promotional video after a significant backlash from fans who found the content deeply distressing.
Swift Backlash Over 'Hanging' Imagery
The controversy erupted on 16th January 2026, when the duo posted a clip to promote their brand new podcast, 'Hanging Out With Ant and Dec'. The video, shared on their newly renamed Belta Box Instagram and Twitter channels, featured a playful skit where the pair appeared to be hanging from a washing line.
The promotional material opened with a close-up shot of Declan Donnelly's feet suspended in the air, a visual that numerous followers immediately flagged as potentially harmful. The clip was intended as a light-hearted pun on the podcast's title but was swiftly condemned for being insensitive to individuals grappling with mental health issues and suicidal thoughts.
Fan Outcry Leads to Immediate Action
Social media reaction was swift and severe. One user on X, formerly Twitter, wrote: "Errm you guys are great, but this video is horrendous. Come on, surely one person during editing could see how triggering the start would be to some people. Remove it."
Another comment highlighted the potential danger: "I'd hate for someone in distress to see this. Guys I know it isn't intentional, but maybe take this down and re-edit the promotional materials." A particularly pointed response criticised the creative decision, stating the opening shot insinuated a method of suicide and questioning what mental health charities like Samaritans and Mind would make of it.
Faced with this wave of concern, Ant and Dec reacted promptly. They removed the video from all platforms and issued a formal apology shared with the Mirror newspaper.
Formal Apology and New Venture Launch
The statement from the presenting pair read: "We did not mean to cause any offence with this promo video and we are sorry if it has upset anyone. We have taken on board the comments and have deleted the video."
This incident occurred as Ant and Dec, both 50, launched their major new content venture, Belta Box. The channel, a rebrand of their previous digital outlet, is designed to house new projects and career highlights. Its flagship offering is the 'Hanging Out With Ant and Dec' podcast, scheduled to launch on Thursday 22nd January 2026.
Speaking about Belta Box earlier, Ant McPartlin said it felt like a "natural next step" to create a space for fun, feel-good content. Dec Donnelly added that the podcast concept came directly from audience requests, simply wanting the duo to hang out together.
*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch.
