John Barrowman has signed up to fill Jason Gardiner’s vacated spot on the Dancing On Ice 2020 judging panel.
Jason confirmed last month that he is quitting the ITV skating extravaganza after ten series as its most controversial star.
His announcement came amid claims that bosses were considering axing him, fearing celebs would complain about his critiques following the TV duty of care scandal.
Now ITV has announced that John Barrowman will be replacing Jason on Dancing On Ice.
John will be joined on the judging panel by head judges and skating legends Torvill and Dean, and dance supremo Ashley Banjo, as they cast their eye over the class of 2020 in a bid to find a superstar skater to follow in the footsteps of previous champions James Jordan and Jake Quickenden.
John Barrowman MBE said today: “I am so excited to be returning to the Dancing On Ice family. Unlike most I have been through the rigorous task of skating live as a contestant in the first series.
“This is a thrilling adventure for me and I hope to bring a Fresh, Fun and Fab-u-lous angle to the judging panel.”
Katie Rawcliffe, Head of Entertainment Commissioning, ITV, added: “John’s quick wit, inimitable talent and all round fabulous personality make him the perfect addition to Dancing on Ice’s all star panel and we’re looking forward to seeing him bring his own brand of sparkle to the show.”
John was a contestant on the very first series of Dancing On Ice back in 2006.
He is popular among telly viewers, reaching third place in the final of I’m A Celebrity last year.
The former Torchwood star was also recently tipped to join Emily Atack on the jungle contest’s ITV2 spin-off, Extra Camp.
It is unclear if he is still in contention for the hosting role, as fellow former campmate Adam Thomas has since been linked to the job.
Dancing On Ice will be back on our screens in January 2020.
Celebs on the line up are yet to be confirmed.
