Don't panic: Cilla Black did not do cocaine when she hosted Blind Date. As if our Cilla would have ever done such a thing, love.
The scandalous rumour started after new host – and long-time friend of Cilla – Paul O'Grady cracked a few jokes while filming for the rebooted dating show.
What to Read Next
According to the Daily Star, Paul asked the audience: "How the f**k did Cilla do this for 25 years? No wonder she was on cocaine. God bless her, wherever she is."
Paul is also reported to have said: "Her spirit is here you know, pissing herself laughing at me and ruining my show – causing all the issues.
"What can I do now? Oh, I think I'll go and have a line of coke while I wait."
Oh, Paul. Never change.
Although the claims that Cilla had to resort to coke are pretty unbelievable anyway, a spokesperson for Blind Date has confirmed to Digital Spy that, of course, Paul was just having a laugh.
"It was clear to everyone at the studio record that Paul was having fun with the audience. His comments about Cilla were light-hearted – not serious – and have been taken completely out of context," Channel 5 said.
"Paul and the studio audiences have had a huge amount of fun as he filmed Blind Date this week, as viewers will see when the show returns later this year."
Related: Blind Date revival "is for everyone" and will feature LGBT contestants
The new-look series will be returning to our screens on Channel 5 this summer. Paul is set to take over hosting duties, while Melanie Sykes is the new "our Graham".
Of his new job, Paul recently admitted that he was "honoured" to be taking over the iconic role of love's fairy godmother from his old friend.
"I am honoured to present the brand new series and after speaking to Channel 5, I know the series is in safe hands. I can't wait to see if we can find love," he said.
Want up-to-the-minute entertainment news and features? Just hit 'Like' on our Digital Spy Facebook page and 'Follow' on our @digitalspy Twitter account and you're all set.
