Warning: This article discusses themes of mental health which some people may find distressing.
Ant and Dec have issued an apology today (January 17) after they received backlash following an "upsetting" post on social media, which has now been removed.
It comes as the ITV presenting duo announced they are launching digital channel Belta Box, which will feature new entertainment and curated clips, including some of their best bits from shows such as Byker Grove.
Alongside this, they will also be releasing their first podcast series together later this month, titled Hanging Out With Ant & Dec.
Ant and Dec issue apology after 'upsetting' new podcast post
🎉 Welcome to Belta Box! 🎉
As part of this exciting launch, we are changing this page from @itvtakeaway to @BeltaBox. This is to make sure you continue to enjoy all the Takeaway content you love, alongside loads of brand-new entertainment 🤩 pic.twitter.com/fSoGyTdQjh— Belta Box (@beltabox) January 16, 2026
Speaking about the new podcast series, Dec said: “We asked our audience if we did a podcast what would they like it to be about, and they said we just want you guys to hang out. So that’s what we’re doing.
“Ant & I don’t get to hang out as much as we used to, so it’s perfect for us.”
However, as part of the Hanging Out With Ant & Dec announcement, the pair posted a promo video on X and Instagram (now deleted) featuring themselves suspended from a washing line, as a take on the title of the podcast.
But before revealing it was Ant and Dec on the washing line, it showed just a pair of legs in mid-air.
Fans have since criticised the “triggering” move as it could be seen as “offensive” for those struggling or affected by mental health.
This person wrote on X: “What on earth are they thinking.”
Another commented: “I knew immediately what the problem with this was before I even looked at the comments. What on earth.”
An account asked: “Who even thought this was a good idea?”
One user said: “Wow! I'm not one of the 'professionally offended' and even I found that a bit dodgy!”
This fan also posted: “I’m genuinely surprised @antanddec or anyone else for that matter were happy with that. I don’t easily offend but I can see how this would be upsetting to some people.”
“That’s horrible,” shared a profile.
Meanwhile, this person added: “Yep, not a great look at all this.”
“Trigger warning needed,” one social media account responded.
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In a statement to The Mirror, a spokesperson for Ant and Dec said: “We did not mean to cause any offence with this promo video and we are sorry if it has upset anyone.
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“We have taken on board the comments and have deleted the video."
If you or someone you know needs to talk about mental health, please contact the Samaritans, Mind, NHS 111 or other professional services.
Newsquest has contacted representatives for Ant and Dec.
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