Ant & Dec Prank Simon Cowell for Second Time in Saturday Night Takeaway Return

Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, the beloved duo of British television, have marked the return of "Saturday Night Takeaway" with a nostalgic prank on none other than music mogul Simon Cowell.

Cowell, who was the inaugural target of the Geordie pair back in 2003 during a mock audition on the American Idol stage, found himself at the receiving end once again as the show kicked off its 20th series. The pranksters ventured across the Atlantic to pull off their elaborate stunt, catching Cowell off guard during his bicycle ride and amid the filming of America’s Got Talent (AGT).

The antics unfolded as McPartlin and Donnelly, fondly known as Ant & Dec, orchestrated a series of playful hoaxes, leaving Cowell both bewildered and amused. Reflecting on the journey of their show, Donnelly reminisced, "I actually can’t believe the first episode of Saturday Night Live was almost 22 years ago," setting the tone for a trip down memory lane.

In a clever twist, the duo surprised their audience by revealing past snapshots of viewers from earlier seasons, emphasizing their close-knit bond with the show's supporters. Additionally, every member of the audience, comprising foster parents and fundraisers, received a special getaway prize as a token of appreciation for their charitable contributions totaling £40 million.

The highlight of the evening unfolded as Cowell, initially unsuspecting, found himself entangled in a staged ordeal, featuring a fake police officer and a faux magician act, all orchestrated by Ant & Dec. Despite his initial disbelief, Cowell admitted falling for their ruse, conceding, "I never in my wildest dreams thought... you would actually make me not work it out."

The spectacle culminated in a revelation, with Ant & Dec emerging from the shadows to claim responsibility for the elaborate prank, much to Cowell's bemusement. Amidst the laughter and camaraderie, Cowell jokingly threatened, "I am going to kill you," signifying the enduring friendship and playful banter shared between the trio.

As the show progresses into its landmark 20th series, anticipation builds for the segment "I’m A Celebrity Get Out Of Me Ear," promising more hilarious antics as stars like Cowell, Amanda Holden, Holly Willoughby, and Rylan Clark seek revenge on Ant & Dec.

Beyond the pranks, the episode featured thrilling challenges, celebrity appearances, and musical performances, showcasing the diverse entertainment spectrum that "Saturday Night Takeaway" offers. With comedian Stephen Merchant joining as guest announcer and Stephen Mulhern's dramatic return as Dr. Evil, the episode delivered laughter and excitement in abundance.

As the curtain falls on another memorable episode, viewers are left eagerly awaiting the next installment of Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, a testament to its enduring popularity and the unrivaled charm of its hosts.