John Barrowman replaces Jason Gardiner on Dancing On Ice

ITV has confirmed tabloid reports that forthright Gardiner will not be on the ice panel when Dancing on Ice returns next year.

John Barrowman, who competed on the first series of Dancing on Ice, will be returning to the show as a judge.

“I am so excited to be returning to the Dancing On Ice family. Unlike most I have been through the rigorous task of skating live as a contestant in the first series. This is a thrilling adventure for me and I hope to bring a Fresh, Fun and Fab-u-lous angle to the judging panel.” – John Barrowman

A fresh batch of celebrities will take to the ice in 2020 and the actor and entertainer will be casting a beady eye over their performances. John will sit alongside head judges and skating legends Torvill and Dean, and Diversity star Ashley Banjo.

Last month it was reported that long-time judge Jason Gardiner had quit the skating show after discovering that bosses were ‘secretly’ trying to replace him following his on-air clashes with Gemma Collins earlier this year.

Jason joined DOI in 2006 at its launch, only missing one series when bosses replaced him with Louis Spence.

“John’s quick wit, inimitable talent and all round fabulous personality make him the perfect addition to Dancing on Ice’s all star panel and we’re looking forward to seeing him bring his own brand of sparkle to the show.” – Katie Rawcliffe, Head of Entertainment Commissioning, ITV

Dancing on Ice is produced by ITV Studios Entertainment for ITV. The show returns to ITV in the New Year.