The first confirmed star for next year’s Dancing on Ice is boxing superstar Ricky Hatton.
After hosts Ben Shephard and Holly Willoughby teased the announcement earlier in the show, the 44-year-old was revealed for the forthcoming series on Tuesday’s episode of This Morning.
‘If I can maintain my nerve in the boxing ring, I should be able to hold my nerve in the ice rink,’ he says when asked how he thinks he’ll fare in the tournament. I enjoy taking on new tasks and being occupied! I had nothing to do when I retired.’
Ricky admits he isn’t a “great skater or dancer,” but feels his boxing background will help him.
However, the former boxing champion admitted that he expects a few’speed bumps’ along the road.
Another round of competitors is anticipated to be announced for the series, which typically begins in January and goes through March.
They’ll be hoping to impress the judging panel, which included Jayne Torvill, Christopher Dean, Ashley Banjo, and Oti Mabuse last year.
In the most recent series, British gymnast Nile Wilson and professional partner Olivia won Dancing On Ice 2023 in a very amazing moment.
The queen of drag The Vivienne, real name James Lee Williams, and partner Colin Grafton were named as third place earlier in the day, just missing out on the opportunity to perform Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean’s legendary Olympic performance.
It was a tough selection following two stunning boleros from crying gymnast Nile and pro Olivia, and Towie’s Joey Essex and partner Vanessa Bauer.
When previous host Phillip Schofield brought out the winner’s name, Nile was understandably taken aback.
Michelle Heaton of Liberty X, Mollie Gallagher of Coronation Street, and comedian Darren Harriott were among the other contenders.
Dancing On Ice will return to ITV in January 2024.
