The new series of Dancing on Ice is right around the corner, and we’ve been just as excited about seeing some returning faces as the new ones.
And while the all-new cast of celebrities are great, as is the shake-up of the judging panel that now includes Torvill and Dean as well as Diversity star Ashley Banjo, we’re all about the old friends.
We’re talking show legends including pro skaters Dan Whiston and Matt Evers, as well as original hosts Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield.
However, at an event to launch the new “reboot” of the series, which took place at London’s Natural History Museum’s Ice Rink, one of those familiar faces was conspicuous by their absence.
Phillip Schofield had to brave the freezing temperatures by himself, as he explained mum-of-three Holly had missed the event in order to spend quality time at home with her family.
And she was greatly missed!
That’s not to say Holly’s not in the festive spirit – she recently took to Instagram to upload a cosy looking photo in front of a roaring fire, wearing a festive top and matching jumpsuit.
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She captioned the snap: “Merry knit-mas!”
Other notable absentees included Jake Quickenden, who’s fulfilling pantomime duties up in Blackpool.
The stars of the show who were at the event – including Cheryl Baker, Love Island’s Kem Cetinay, Bake Off winner Candice Brown and Corrie star Antony Cotton – also had the chance to show off what they’d learned.
As they were announced, they – alongside their professional partners – took off for a lap of the rink, navigating around a large Christmas tree.
Some found it easier than others, especially Kem, who nearly took his partner Alex Murphy out as he wobbled to a halt.
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Dancing on Ice returns to screens on Sunday January 7th.