The good news was celebrated before the talent show kicked off for its first live episode

Ant and Dec


Simon congratulates Ant on baby’s arrival(Image: ITV)

Britain’s Got Talent’s live episode was briefly halted by Simon Cowell who wanted to speak to Ant McPartlin.

Hosts Ant and Dec began the first live episode of the series but were stopped while chatting to judges as Simon Cowell wished new dad Ant his congratulations.

Ant McPartlin and wife Anne-Marie announced the birth of baby Wilder only a few weeks ago. The proud dad was quick to take to social media at the time to thank fans for their support and well-wishes over the happy news.

Announcing the news on Instagram with an emotive post he wrote: “Welcome to the family. Wilder Patrick Mcpartlin. Born, 14/05/24 at 8.54am. Baby is beautiful, Mummy’s a legend, Sisters are over the moon. Dad’s a mess!”.

The popular ITV presenter’s snap of the newborn against a family tree tattoo sparked some questions from fans who noticed a name from his growing family missing. In a follow up, Ant reassured fans Hurley, their beloved family dog was a part of the tattoo, reports the Mirror.

Ant posted: “Hey all, I just wanted to say thank You so much for the kind messages of love and well wishes for our baby Wilder. He’s doing great. Glad you loved the tattoo as well. For all you dog lovers who asked why my beloved Hurley wasn’t on the family tree… he was! ! He was just covered by our newborn. All my love, gratitude and heartfelt thanks. A.”

On Monday, Simon sent his well-wishes to Ant, acknowledging the birth of his adorable baby boy much to the appreciation of his live audience. His celebrity friends were quick to offer their congratulations on social media upon hearing about the arrival of baby Wilder.

Among them was Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon, who said: “Awwwww darling I’m so happy for you both! Baby shares the same birthday as my mummy! Can’t wait to meet buba and to celebrate soon! Love you both.”

Former This Morning host Holly Willoughby had kind words to share, writing: “Congratulations… welcome to the world Wilder… such beautiful news…” Meanwhile, This Morning presenter Cat Deeley exclaimed: “Amazing ! What wonderful news …. Congratulations.”

Co-star on Britain’s Got Talent Amanda Holden couldn’t hide her excitement, gushing: “Oh my gosh, this is just the most amazing news. Congratulations.”

Indeed, the good wishes kept coming, with First Dates star Fred Sirieix simply saying: “Congrats.” Ashley Banjo joined in with: “Congrats guys,” and Joel Dommett added his sentiment: “I LOVE THIS.”