ITV Dancing On Ice fans 'gutted’ as stars announce exit from skating competition

Holly Willoughby appears to swear during Dancing on Ice recording.mp4
ITV
Marcus Donaldson

By Marcus Donaldson


Published: 30/10/2024

- 12:12

Upcoming series 17 of the show will be the last for two fan-favourites

Fans of ITV's Dancing On Ice have been left shocked by the news that two popular skaters will bow out from competing after the 2025 series.

The news came as the full line-up of professional dancers was announced for the show's 17th outing.


Series regulars Mark Hanretty and Brendyn Hatfield both revealed this series will be their last on social media.

“Hard to believe I’m embarking on my 12th series of Dancing on Ice,” Hanretty began in an Instagram post.

He then confirmed: “This will be my last year as a pro skater and I’m eager to soak up every second of it!”

The 39-year-old dancer cushioned the blow: “I’m as excited as ever and so grateful for the chance to work on the greatest show on ice once again.”

Stephen Mulhern and Holly Willoughby

Hosts Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern are expected to continue

ITV

Hanretty has been Dancing On Ice’s longest-serving pro, debuting in 2011 alongside contestant and Loose Women star Nadia Sawalha.

With radio presenter Adele Roberts, Hanretty went all the way to the 2024 final but was beaten to the ultimate prize by Coronation Street star Ryan Thomas and his partner Amani Fancy.

In response, one fan said: “Gutted your leaving but wishing you all the best"

Another exclaimed: “No, you’re leaving! Must get you that win then!”

A third spoke of how Hanretty inspired her: “I’m sad, you’re my favourite. I started skating after I met you at Gosport with Carly (Carley Stenson).” (sic)

Brendyn Hatfield, who will now be taking on his sixth Dancing On Ice series, also revealed it will be his last.

The 38-year-old announced on Instagram: “Excited to be back for my 6th and final season of Dancing On Ice. Let’s make this one the best one!”

Fans again reacted to the bittersweet announcement, with one replying: “Yay so happy that you’re back for another year of Dancing On Ice but I’m sad that you’ll be leaving along with Mark."

Another posted “Final” followed by a crying emoji but added: "So glad we get to see you again this year xxx."

Fellow pro dancer Alexander Demetriou commented: “The show will miss you my friend️.” (sic)

Fans will get to see Hanretty and Hatfield on skates once more when Dancing on Ice series 17 begins in January 2025.

The full line-up of celebs taking to the ice was also confirmed earlier this year with 12 famous faces currently gearing up for their rink debuts.

The 12 stars taking part in the ITV skating competition are:

  • Ferne McCann
  • Mollie Pearce
  • Sir Steve Redgrave
  • Sam Aston
  • Charlie Brooks
  • Josh Jones
  • Anton Ferdinand
  • Chelsee Healey
  • Dan Edgar
  • Chris Taylor
  • Michaela Strachan
  • Dame Sarah Storey

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