Dancing on Ice cast 2020: Libby Clegg MBE confirmed to take on Michael Barrymore

Dancing on Ice has confirmed the eighth contestant to be hitting the rink in 2020 – Libby Clegg MBE.

The Paralympic sprinter confirmed the news live on Victoria Derbyshire this morning where she couldn’t contain her excitement, obviously.

‘After Rio I achieved my ultimate goal and then I thought “what else can I do?”’ she enthused. ‘This opportunity came about and I couldn’t pass it up. I love challenging myself and experiencing new things.’

Libby will be taking on the likes of Love Island’s Maura Higgins, Ian ‘H’ Watkins from Steps and TV presenter Michael Barrymore.

‘I’m delighted to say that I’ll be joining the Dancing on Ice line up for 2020. I’m looking forward to meeting Holly and Phil. I’m very excited…it’s performance time!’ Michael revealed, breaking news of his addition to the line-up which was met with a mixed reception from fans.

Next year’s Dancing on Ice marks a new chapter for the reality series after Jason Gardiner sensationally quit the panel and was replaced by John Barrowman.

Reports suggested the sharp-tongued judge had become a concern for bosses amid calls for kinder television and less ‘bullying’ on the box.

‘I know there has been a lot of speculation about me and the upcoming series of Dancing on Ice. I wanted to set the record straight, I’ve been an original judge since 2006,’ he began, explaining his decision.

‘I’ve done every series except one, when I was replaced by my good friend and dance sister Louis Spence in 2012. ‘The show had been off air for four years and when it was revived I was the only original judge to return.

‘The past two series there have been new additions to the panel including the fantastic Ashley Banjo and the legends Torvill and Dean. I have absolutely loved sharing the panel with them.’

He added: ‘After all these years I feel it’s time for me to say goodbye to my judging role and return to things I have been putting on hold and have been on the back burner for a while.

‘To all of my DOI fans I really thank you for your support and encouragement over the years, I know we’ve gone through some controversies and I’m glad you got my unique judging style and honestly.

‘It’s because of you I never cowered or shied away from serving up the truth.’

Dancing on Ice returns to ITV in 2020.

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