Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
Dancing on Ice Axed After 19 Seasons; Stephen Mulhern Secures Future ITV Roles
The long-standing ice-skating competition Dancing on Ice will reportedly not be renewed for its 20th season, despite presenter Stephen Mulhern securing numerous upcoming projects with ITV. The popular programme, a fixture on the network since 2006, is ending after nearly two decades as broadcaster bosses decided against commissioning another series following a decline in viewership figures.
Stephen Mulhern’s ITV Portfolio Expands Amidst Show Cancellation
The hosting lineup for Dancing on Ice previously featured Holly Willoughby, who initially co-presented alongside Phillip Schofield until his departure last year. Stephen Mulhern then took over co-hosting duties for the most recent series. Sources indicate that while Holly Willoughby‘s future projects with ITV remain unconfirmed, Stephen Mulhern is set to continue his relationship with the network across several programmes. Willoughby, a former presenter on “This Morning” and “Celebrity Juice,” left both shows in 2023 and 2020, respectively.
Source Claims Packed Schedule for Mulhern, Uncertain Future for Willoughby
An insider revealed to a news outlet, “Despite the unfortunate news that Dancing on Ice will conclude next year, this development will not impede Stephen‘s career trajectory. His schedule for 2025 is already full, with established shows like ‘Celebrity Catchphrase’ and ‘Deal or No Deal’ maintaining their popularity. Furthermore, he is scheduled to front a new travel programme, ‘Accidental Tourist,’ later in the year.”
The source further commented, “The same cannot be said for Holly, as she currently has no confirmed ITV projects.” Representatives for both ITV and Holly Willoughby have been contacted for official statements. In the wake of the announcement regarding Dancing On Ice‘s cancellation, Willoughby expressed her sentiments on social media, notably omitting any mention of Phillip Schofield in her farewell message.
Holly Willoughby’s Social Media Farewell to Dancing on Ice
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Holly Willoughby wrote, “A massive thank you to ITV, the incredible team, crew, celebrities, and everyone who has contributed to our Dancing on Ice family over the past 19 years. Annually, as January approached, Dancing on Ice illuminated the winter months with its radiant, dazzling energy, warmth, joy, and heart.”
“It has been a genuine honour to collaborate with Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, true icons, and witness their awe-inspiring skating from an unparalleled vantage point. Observing their performances on the ice was truly magical. Special recognition must also be given to Arnica, Deep Heat, Spanx, and Fake Tan – the unsung heroes of the rink! I will deeply miss the show but feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of it for so many years. Finally, and most importantly, thank you to you, the viewers, for watching – you are the BEST!”