The rumoured Dancing on Ice format change won't happen after all, with ITV bosses now confirming that this year's line-up will be split, with half of the contestants having to wait a week to make their debut.
Last week, it was reported online that rather than lasting for two hours, the launch show of the new series would be on for 90 minutes and feature performances from all of this year' skating stars, in a move that was championed by fans who'd accused past series of having too much 'filler' in between routines.
However, that won't be the case as, in a release circulated by ITV, it was confirmed that the Dancing on Ice class of 2023 had been divided across the first two weeks of the new series, with six taking to the rink on Sunday, January 15 and the remaining five giving their first performances a week later.
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The celebs up first include Liberty X singer Michelle Heaton, TOWIE favourite Joey Essex and Love Island winner Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu. They will be joined by Olympic gymnast Nile Wilson, The Wanted's Siva Kaneswaran and EastEnders icon Patsy Palmer.
The decision to split the line-up means that footballer turned broadcaster John Fashanu, ex Hollyoaks actress Carly Stenson, Coronation Street's Mollie Gallagher and Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne will also have to sit on the sidelines in week one, along with comedian Darren Herriott.
The new series of Dancing on Ice will start at 6.30pm on ITV this Sunday, right before the return of Vera at 8pm.
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