Simon Cowell has praised Ant McPartlin for having the "courage" to confront his personal troubles.
The 41-year-old TV host checked himself into rehab for drink and drug addictions in June, and although Simon doesn’t know all of the details behind Ant’s problems, he has heaped praise on the popular star.
He said: "I have worked in entertainment for a long long time and I’ve seen what happens with pressure. I’m not making excuses here.
"I’ve worked with him for 16 years. All I can tell you about Ant is he’s one of the most genuine people you’ll ever meet. He hasn’t changed in all the years I’ve known him.
"I don’t know details behind the scenes. But when someone has the courage to own it, deal with it, made a public statement, we would a million per cent support him. I think he’ll be fine."
And Simon said Ant has a strong support network around him, including his long-time TV partner Declan Donnelly, as he bids to overcome his troubles.
Speaking to Dan Wootton for The Sun’s ‘Bizarre Life’ podcast, Simon explained: "He’s got great people around him and also he’s got a great family around him. Dec’s his best friend.
"We made it clear we would always stand by them."
Last month, meanwhile, it was claimed that the ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ presenter is "over the worst" of his addiction to drink and drugs.
A source said: "He is doing really well. It has been a tough few weeks but he is coming through it and is now over the worst of it.
"Ant has been very brave and is totally committed to his recovery. All that matters to him is getting well and getting back to his best."
Simon Cowell hails ‘courageous’ Ant McPartlin
