Dancing On Ice is to be cancelled this weekend, due to a combination of injuries and positive COVID tests that have forced four contestants to withdraw from the competition.
The decision taken by ITV to pause the show comes after Emmerdale star Joe-Warren Plant and his professional skating partner Vanessa Bauer both tested positive for COVID-19.
Joe and Vanessa’s departure is the latest in a line of misfortunes and exits to hit the show. It had previously been announced that Jason Donovan would be forced to be absent from the show for a second week, due to ongoing back pain.
This week also saw professional skater Hamish Gaman, who was partnering Faye Brookes, pull out due to a finger injury. Matt Evers has since been confirmed as Faye’s new skating partner.
This year’s series has previously seen comedian Rufus Hound leave the show due to testing positive for coronavirus. Actress Denise Van Outen has also had to withdraw due to a dislocated shoulder, and reality TV star Billie Shepherd pulled out due to injuring herself in a fall.
Additionally, two of the shows remaining stars have also experienced injuries this week. Rapper Lady Leshurr has been experiencing leg pain, whilst Rebekah Vardy has suffered a groin strain.
Source: Google Images
For the first time in the history of the show, Dancing On Ice have run out of reserves.
A spokesperson for ITV revealed that the break in the show is essential to protect the wellbeing of the show’s cast and crew.
They said: “The welfare of all those involved is important to us, and we felt it prudent to take a week’s break at this juncture. Continuing to make the best TV for our viewers is of paramount importance to us, and we look forward to resuming the competition next week.”
This week’s show will be replaced by a one-off special, called Dancing On Ice: The Greatest Show On Ice, which celebrates the most memorable moments in the show’s history. The competition is set to resume as normal on Sunday 28th February.
Words by Charlotte Roszko
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