Dec Donnelly faces awkward run in with ex Ashley Roberts as she makes brutal jibe at star on live TV

Saturday Night Takeaway reached its thrilling end this past Saturday evening, drawing to a close 22 suspenseful years on our TV screens. Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, alongside a fantastic array of popular personalities, served as hosts for the final episode.

Even with many famous people assisting the pair in managing a busy and exciting show packed with nostalgia, fun, and chaos, one particular person stood out, causing an uncomfortable reunion for Dec. Ashley Roberts, who was rumored to be Dec's former love interest, came to his aid.

There were talks in 2012 that Ashley and Dec might be in a romantic relationship. This was after Ashley was seen on I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here, but Dec later found his soulmate in his wife Ali Astall.

Over ten years ago, it was said that Dec and Ashley, who had previously been on a reality show together, were seen being friendly towards each other. Although they were never confirmed as a couple, Ashley had shared in an interview that she had a liking towards Dec and expressed her interest in getting to know him better over drinks and some conversation.

During the final episode of Saturday Night Takeaway, it was reported that Declan Donnelly encountered his alleged former partner Ashley Roberts. The incident was captured and broadcasted by ITV.

During an uncomfortable meeting in the last episode of Saturday Night Takeaway, Dec encountered his former partner, who made no effort to hold back as she humorously mocked him by insinuating that he only wore extra-small-sized clothing.

Many people make fun of him for being shorter than his co-host Ant, which is often a focus of humorous comments on the show. Although the joke fits the tone of the program, some viewers found it especially harsh since it came from an ex-partner.

Apart from the taunting, spectators also observed that Ashley and Dec seemed to have maintained a healthy friendship, with some fans speculating that they were even flirting. This behavior was labeled as "awkward" by one viewer. Furthermore, Ashley, who was present at Dec's wedding to Ali in 2015, was seen touching him repeatedly during the last episode of Ant vs Dec.

The viewers watching from their homes were prompt in remarking upon the amorous conduct displayed by the duo. -Credit: ITV

On social media, a fan expressed their discomfort with Ashley's flirting towards Dec, while another fan observed that it was unusual for Dec to flirt with Ashley Roberts.

Just before another follower added their opinion by saying, "Reminiscing about the time when Dec was fond of Ashley Roberts."

In the meantime, another viewer chimed in saying that they wouldn't deny that they secretly wanted Dec and Ashley to tie the knot.

Another supporter added their thoughts to the discussion, expressing their admiration for the close bond between Ant and Dec and Ashley.

On Instagram, Ashley Roberts posted a heartfelt thank you message written by hand before the final performance.

The on-screen spark was ignited when Ashley shared about the handwritten message from the Geordie duo and the beautiful flower bouquet she received before the latest Saturday Night Takeaway episode.

The lovely message said: "Dear Ashley. We appreciate you returning to participate with us in the final episode of this unique twentieth season of Saturday Night Takeaway. With love, Ant & Dec."

Ashley snapped a photo of herself along with the hosts before filming the final episode of Saturday Night Takeaway. In her post, she conveyed her excitement for the reunion, saying "I can't wait to catch up with everyone!"