Ant and Dec hinted that they might not be able to return for the finale of Saturday Night Takeaway during last night’s episode.

The latest instalment of the live ITV entertainment show took place yesterday (14 March) despite the fact that every live show in the US, including chat shows, have had their production shut down due to coronavirus.

At the beginning of the show, the pair referenced the pandemic by spraying their hands with sanitiser and greeting each other with a footshake.

With Britain’s coronavirus death toll doubling overnight, and restrictions on social gatherings announced in numerous countries around the world, though, it seems unlikely the show will be able to return for its finale.

Co-host Declan Donnelly suggested this at the end of the show, telling viewers: “We will hopefully be back here next Saturday night at 7pm.”

He added: “Have a great week – stay safe, everybody.”

The finale has already been affected by the coronavirus outbreak, however.

Next week was when each episode’s competition winner was scheduled to be shown in Florida having been flown to the US in the week. But, with all travel restricted to and from the US, the live segment has been cancelled.

ITV has ensured viewers that the winners will take their trip at a later date “when it is practical for Virgin Holidays and Walt Disney World Resort to fulfil the prize”.

Despite the episode taking place, the hosts noticeably stayed away from members of the studio audience.

Find a full list of every film and TV show cancelled or delayed by the pandemic here.