Ricky Gervais has revealed he turned down an offer to host a new version of ITV’s For The Love Of Dogs.
The documentary series was previously hosted by Paul O’Grady, who died aged 67 in March earlier this year. The show’s eleventh season, which aired posthumously, came to an end in August.
According to The Sun, a remake of the show is currently in pre-production, with Gervais, Amanda Holden and Martin Clunes touted as frontrunners to take over hosting duties.
Following the reports, Gervais has since taken his name out of the running, confirming on X that he turned down an offer by ITV bosses.
In response to a fan who shared the rumours, Gervais wrote: “It’s true that I was asked but I said no I’m afraid. Just too busy.”
It’s true that I was asked but I said no I’m afraid. Just too busy.
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) October 23, 2023
Gervais is currently on tour with his stand-up show Armageddon, with gigs scheduled in Brighton, Bristol and London before the end of the year. His comedy-drama After Life came to an end after three seasons last year.
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, where For The Love Of Dogs is filmed, recently announced its veterinary hospital will be named after O’Grady. The late TV presenter became an ambassador for Battersea in 2012.
A Battersea tribute fund in O’Grady’s honour was also set up following his death, which has raised over £480,000 as of October this year (via the BBC).
O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio said: “Seeing how loved Paul was by so many has been truly touching. Paul was so passionate in his support of rescue animals, and it gives me some comfort to know that through the hard work and commitment of Battersea and other charities Paul’s legacy will live on.
“I know that Paul would have been pleased to know that the most disadvantaged animals he was so fond of championing are getting the love and support they deserve.”
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