TV duo Ant and Dec are launching their first podcast, Hanging Out with Ant & Dec, through their new digital channel, Belta Box. The show will let the presenters catch up on their lives, answer fan questions, and share stories. The first episode drops on Thursday, 22 January, with new episodes every two weeks and bonus episodes on Mondays.
Belta Box will also host classic clips from the duo’s TV shows and explore new digital formats. Platforms include YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Declan Donnelly explained that the idea came straight from their audience. “They just want us to hang out,” he said. Ant added that it felt like a natural move since the pair rarely get time to chat off-camera.
The podcast launch comes alongside their new ITV contract, keeping them on shows like I’m A Celebrity, Britain’s Got Talent, and Limitless Win. Media expert Alex Hudson noted that this gives the duo a chance to expand their reach online while staying among the UK’s best-paid TV presenters.
Entering a Growing Market
While Ant and Dec are late to the podcast scene, the timing still makes sense. The global podcast market is estimated at £25 billion and is expected to reach almost £100 billion by 2030.
Hudson explained that the duo’s strong UK fanbase allows them to connect directly with listeners and explore new business opportunities. He also noted that sustaining success without traditional broadcast support could be a challenge once the initial excitement fades.
Unscripted and Interactive
The podcast promises a relaxed, unscripted format. Listeners can influence conversations each week by submitting questions and anecdotes. Both the podcast and Belta Box are produced by the duo’s company, Mitre Studios.
Belta Box has already launched on YouTube with clips from shows like Byker Grove, SM:TV, and Saturday Night Takeaway. Ant called the channel a “natural next step” after years in entertainment. Hudson added that the move benefits YouTube too, which is looking to expand beyond short, viral videos into longer, more TV-style content.
Shifting Entertainment Trends
YouTube recently overtook the BBC in monthly audience reach in the UK, according to Barb. However, traditional broadcasters still dominate long-form viewing.
The Financial Times also reported that a UK broadcaster is planning a new YouTube content deal, allowing global audiences to watch their programmes with advertising. This highlights how digital platforms are becoming key to reaching audiences and monetizing content.
