Further changes are coming to Dancing On Ice as latest news reveals more pros have quit the ITV skating series.
Alexandra Schauman and Lukasz Rozycki have confirmed their departure from the programme – and have launched a pretty scathing attack on the show as they go.
The married couple have featured on DOI for well over a decade. But now they feel they’re “struggling” with changes to the series.
Their exit comes just days after another veteran star said they will not be back in 2024.
Dancing On Ice news
Finnish star Alexandra Schauman, 43, previously won DOI with James Jordan. She has also previously skated with celebrity contestants such as Joe Swash, Jason Donovan, Sam Nixon and Todd Carty.
She reportedly alluded to behind-the-scenes dramas as she told MailOnline: “We have absolutely loved being part of the show for so long. But it has taken a very different angle and we struggle to agree with a lot of it.”
Alexandra went on to reveal the reasons behind their departure. Hitting out, she said: “Mostly we’ve realised there is no opportunity to ‘grow’ on the show or take on different roles. And maybe it’s not so attractive for the show that we aren’t dramatic, we treat people with respect, and we aren’t interested in the increasingly contrived romantic narratives.”
We aren’t interested in the increasingly contrived romantic narratives.
Lukasz, 44, who comes from Poland, added the show has “taken its toll” on the couple. He said: “The show is great fun but hard work and challenging as everyone who has taken part will attest to. Over the years it has taken its toll on us, mentally and physically.”
He added the job of skating pros can be “underestimated”, and also that options were discussed with producers over the last few months. However, it was decided, Lukasz claimed, taking a year away was the “best” choice.
Lukasz, who has been paired up with stars such as Laila Morse, Trisha Goddard, Myleene Klass, and Beth Tweddle during his time on the series, also suggested the door may be open for a DOI return one day.
A representative for Dancing On Ice at ITV declined to comment when approached by ED!.
‘Dancing On Ice is close to our hearts’
Additionally, the couple wrote on Instagram on Sunday (October 22) evening: “The support from our fans over the years has truly meant the world to us. But we are excited to have decided this season to pursue other passions we have in the skating world.
“Dancing On Ice is, and has always been close to our hearts. We’ve had some amazing experiences, gotten to meet and train some incredible people, worked with the legendary Torvill and Dean, and performed in some very memorable routines.
“We wish everyone taking part this year an incredible time. It has been a life-changing experience. We will definitely be watching and supporting in January.”
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‘I knew this day would come’
The line-up of pros taking part in Dancing On Ice 2024 was announced on Monday October 23. Four new additions have been unveiled – but Matt Evers will not be joining them.
The American skater confirmed in a statement over the weekend: “I knew this day would come at some point but I won’t be returning to Dancing On Ice this series.
“After 15 series of the show it was sadly time to hang up the skates for now. I have loved every minute of it (honestly!).”
A DOI spokesperson said: “Matt Evers has been a huge part of the show from the very first series. He created some of the shows iconic moments. From performing the first ever headbanger on the very first show with partner Bonnie Langford, storming to victory with partner Suzanne Shaw in season three, and performing in our first ever same sex couple with Ian ‘H’ Watkins on season 12. Matt will always be a part of the Dancing On Ice family and we wish him all the very best for the future.”
Meanwhile, contestant Stephen Webb was forced to withdraw from the series due to an injury. Instead, Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards will take his place.
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