Dancing On Ice pro Matt Evers says he’s ‘proud to make history’ in all male couple with H from Steps
DANCING On Ice pro Matt Evers has said he’s “proud to make history” in an all-male couple with H from Steps.
Earlier this month The Sun broke the news the skater would be performing with Steps singer Ian “H” Watkins as the ITV show plan to pair up two male dancers – beating its rival Strictly.
Speaking for the first time about the momentous occasion, Matt said: "Our dance partners haven't been confirmed yet - but I would be proud to be part of a show that makes history in this way.
“I've known H for a few years as I was partnered up with Lisa Scott Lee in the earlier series.
“So to have a same sex couple would be fantastic, whether it's with me or another male dancer. In tennis women play women, so this has been a long time coming. And once ITV do this, I'm sure BBC will follow suit with Strictly."
H is said to have asked Dancing on Ice chiefs about partnering a man on the next series — and the “fully supportive” team agreed.
After the news was revealed H told fans: ";Totally overwhelmed today. I’ll need some time to take it all in !!"
He added: "I’m just totally blown away by your incredible support and messages! Thankyou so much, truly xx xx #dancingonice2020 #dancingonice #iceskating #iceicebaby #samesexdance #Equality #lgbtq #TeamH"
The landmark move follows years of speculation about same-sex couples on dance shows and will heap extra pressure on its rival Strictly.
The BBC show opted not to include one this season despite years of speculation and debate — and has been pipped to the post.
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It is hoped the move will usher in a string of same-sex telly dance partners.
A show source revealed: “After conversations with the Dancing on Ice production team, H enquired as to the possibility of being paired with a male pro skater.
“Bosses at Dancing on Ice are fully supportive of a same-sex partnership, so this year H will be paired with Matt.
“It’s a huge moment in TV history. A lot of viewers will be watching and the hope is it might set a trend.”