The wait is almost over: the new season of Dancing on Ice is just around the corner. The 2012 series of one of Britain’s favourite reality TV shows will be back in January, with a new presenter to partner old-timer, Philip Schofield. Daybreak presenter, Christine Bleakley, is really excited about joining the show.
On the show’s official website, Christine said: “I’ve always been a total Dancing on Ice addict so it really is hard to sum up how excited I am to be joining the team.”
Along with a fresh new presenter, the 2012 show will also see some changes at the judges’ table. Everyone’s favourite from Pineapple Studios, Louie Spence, will join former Olympic figure skating champion Katarina Wit and residing head judge Robin Cousins. People placing a Dancing on Ice bet will know that is a strong judging panel.
Katarina is looking forward to the challenge of being the judge rather than the performer and said: “As well as offering support and constructive advice to this years’ celebrity skaters I’m also looking forward to working alongside my close friends Torvill and Dean.”
As for Louie, he can’t wait: “I’m looking forward to being part of such a challenging and spectacular show and can’t wait to give my encouragement and critique on the contestants’ dance and performance on the ice.”
Although the official line up of contestants hasn’t been announced, a number of celebrities have been spotted in training sessions with Torvill and Dean. They include actress Jennifer Ellison, the fashion designer Sadie Frost, and Sugababe Heidi Range. The 64 year old fitness queen Rosemary Conley arrived dressed the part for training in a jogging outfit.
Mo from Eastenders, aka Laila Morse, and skier Chemmy Alcot were also seen down at the skating rink in Slough. The actress from Hollyoaks, Jorgie Porter, joined the party.
On the men’s side, ex-Blue Peter presenter Andy Akinwolere and Emmerdale actor Matthew Wolfenden were also spotted, along with ex-Spurs goal keeper Ian Walker.
How many of these stars will appear on the first show remains to be seen, and if last year’s show is anything to go by, at least four will only survive one show before they are eliminated.