After an impressive run spanning nearly two decades, ITV has officially pulled the plug on its hit reality competition Dancing on Ice. The network confirmed that the show will not return for a new series in 2026, marking the end of an era for one of British television’s most iconic formats.
The decision comes amid falling viewership, with ITV citing a decline in audience numbers as the primary reason for the show’s cancellation. A spokesperson stated, “There are no current plans for another series.”
The news has taken many fans and industry insiders by surprise, given the show’s strong cultural presence since its debut in 2006. Over the years, Dancing on Ice had become a staple of weekend television, pairing celebrities with professional ice skaters to perform elaborate routines judged by a celebrity panel, according to GB News.
While many are lamenting the end of the show, others are reacting quite differently—including former co-host Phillip Schofield. The longtime television presenter, who fronted the show alongside Holly Willoughby until stepping down following a scandal in 2023, is reportedly reacting to the cancellation with satisfaction.
An insider told Closer, “Phil is absolutely ‘reveling in the news’ Dancing on Ice got cancelled—he thinks it’s payback and that it’s down to his departure.”
Schofield’s departure from the show came in the wake of revelations about an affair with a younger male colleague, which he had initially denied to ITV executives and his co-presenters. The scandal led to a significant rift between him and Willoughby.
“They had been close both on and off-screen,” the source added, “but their relationship fractured after Schofield’s affair scandal.” Initially, Willoughby publicly supported Schofield. However, she later admitted that he had misled her, claiming he had lied about the nature of the affair.
Since the fallout, both Schofield and Willoughby have faced personal and professional challenges. Willoughby, 44, stepped down from This Morning following a separate, deeply disturbing incident involving a murder and rape plot targeting her. She has also recently exited other high-profile projects.
With no immediate plans announced for either presenter, the future remains uncertain for the once-celebrated duo. As ITV looks to refresh its entertainment lineup, the end of Dancing on Ice marks the close of a significant chapter in reality television—one filled with glitter, drama, and, ultimately, controversy.
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