John Barrowman at The National Television Awards 2019
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John Barrowman confirmed as Jason Gardiner’s Dancing on Ice replacement

He's going to be fab-u-LOUS!

Former I’m A Celebrity star John Barrowman has been confirmed as the new Dancing on Ice judge.

The Torchwood star – who competed in the first series of the show in 2006 – is to replace Jason Gardiner after he announced he wouldn’t be returning to the 2020 series.

A veteran of stage and screen, John will be providing his very own expert critique as a fresh assortment of famous faces take to the ice.

Stars arrive at the Adelphi Theatre for the 'Kinky Boots' gala performance in London, UK. WORLDWIDE RIGHTS Pictured: John Barrowman Ref: SPL4191059 300518 NON-EXCLUSIVE Picture by: Alucard / Flynet - SplashNews / SplashNews.com Splash News and Pictures Los Angeles: 310-821-2666 New York: 212-619-2666 London: 0207 644 7656 Milan: +39 02 56567623 photodesk@splashnews.com World Rights
John will join the panel next year (Credit: SplashNews.com)

John will be joined on the judging panel by head judges and skating legends Torvill and Dean, and dance supremo Ashley Banjo for the new series next year.

Of joining the show John said: “I am so excited to be returning to the Dancing On Ice family.

Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean on DOI
Jane and Chris will also be back (Credit: ITV)

“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.”

Katie Rawcliffe, Head of Entertainment Commissioning, ITV, said: “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.”

Ashley Banjo
Ash is also returning (Credit: SplashNews.com)

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John’s appointment to the panel had been rumoured on Saturday with source telling The Sun newspaper’s Bizarre TV column: “Producers are delighted to have got John.

“He’s a good fit for the show as he knows how it works and has done judging roles before.

“They also feel he’s a bit more wholesome than Jason, who put a lot of noses out of joint with some of his comments.

“They think John will be a big success.”

Jason announced he had quit Dancing On Ice earlier this month.

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IN THE CLOSET @liveatzedel Jan 16th, 17th, 22nd Feb 1st and 2nd

A post shared by Jason Gardiner (@thejasongardiner) on

In an Instagram video, he said: “I know there has been a lot of speculation about me and the upcoming series of Dancing On Ice.

“After all these years I feel it’s time to say goodbye to my judging role and return to things I have been putting on hold for a while.

“The past two series there have been new additions to the panel including the fantastic Ashley Banjo and the legends [Jayne] Torvill and [Christopher] Dean. I have absolutely loved sharing the panel with them.

Jason’s sharp tongue was like marmite to viewers (Credit: ITV)

“Holly, Phil, Jayne and Chris, we created something we can be really proud of after the ice has finally thawed.

“We’ve had a lot of laughs, trials and tribulations and I have loved working with all of you.

“To the unsung heroes, the pros and coaches, including Karen Barber, without your hard work we would never have had the success we’ve had. I salute and applaud you.

John took part in 2018’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! and was a huge hit with fans.

John was brilliant in the jungle (Credit: ITV)

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He has since had guest hosting stints on This Morning.

He also competed in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special in 2010, which he won with partner Kristina Rhianoff.

Are you excited about John joining Dancing on Ice? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!


Carena Crawford
Associate Editor (Soaps)

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