Dancing On Ice: Is ITV’s Iconic Skating Show Facing the Axe?
For nearly two decades, Dancing on Ice has dazzled audiences with breathtaking routines, dramatic falls, and celebrity transformations on the rink. But as ratings continue to slide and production costs soar, ITV is now facing a tough decision—does the beloved skating competition still have a future, or is it time to bring the curtain down? Here’s everything we know about the fate of Dancing on Ice.
The Future of Dancing on Ice Hangs in the Balance
ITV’s beloved skating competition, Dancing on Ice, could soon be skating its way off our screens. Despite Sam Aston and Molly Lanaghan’s victory in Sunday night’s finale (March 9, 2025), the show’s future looks uncertain as viewership figures continue to slide.
Insiders suggest that ITV bosses are seriously reconsidering whether the show still holds a place in the network’s lineup.
A source close to the production revealed:
“The staffers on Dancing on Ice are saying the show is over and claim they’ve been told as much.”
The show, once a staple of ITV’s programming, has seen a steady decline in ratings. While nearly three million viewers tuned in for the launch episode, these numbers pale in comparison to the show’s peak years when it regularly drew in over eight million.
Has Dancing on Ice Lost Its Spark?
Since its debut in 2006, Dancing on Ice has provided audiences with dazzling performances, dramatic falls, and unforgettable celebrity transformations on the rink. But after nearly two decades, some believe the format has grown stale.
The show’s inability to attract high-profile celebrities has also been a point of concern. In its early years, contestants included big names like David Seaman, Suzanne Shaw, and Ray Quinn, but recent seasons have struggled to pull in A-list talent.
“There’s no denying that the format has become tired, and they’re not getting the big names they once did,” the source added.
Production Costs vs. Ratings: Is It Worth It for ITV?
Producing Dancing on Ice is no small feat. With elaborate staging, professional skaters, and a massive production crew, the show is among ITV’s most expensive reality programs. The network must now weigh whether the cost of production justifies the ratings it delivers.
One insider stated:
“The show’s future hinges on the meetings that follow last night’s finale. Dancing on Ice is an expensive production, and there are questions over whether ITV is getting bang for its buck.”
What Do the Hosts and Judges Think?
Co-hosted by Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern, the show has maintained a strong presenting team, but even those closest to the show are uncertain about its future.
Legendary Olympic figure skater Christopher Dean, who has served as a judge alongside his long-time skating partner Jayne Torvill, admitted that the uncertainty is real.
“If Dancing on Ice continues, we will just come back as judges,” he said.
Dean also acknowledged that years of performing have taken a toll on his body, hinting that even if the show survives, change is inevitable.
What’s Next for Dancing on Ice? A Possible Reset
Rumors suggest ITV might not scrap the show entirely but instead put it on ice—literally—before relaunching with a refreshed format. This wouldn’t be the first time ITV has temporarily shelved a major entertainment show only to bring it back in a new, more appealing way.
With reality TV trends shifting and audience preferences evolving, ITV must decide whether Dancing on Ice still has a place in today’s entertainment landscape.
For now, ITV show fans will have to wait for an official announcement—but if the murmurs from behind the scenes are accurate, the show’s days may be numbered.
