Exclusive
ICE WORK
John Barrowman to replace axed Jason Gardiner on next series of Dancing on Ice
TORCHWOOD star John Barrowman has been hired to set Dancing on Ice alight by replacing axed judge Jason Gardiner.
Bosses hope John’s warm manner will melt viewers’ hearts following fears that Jason’s cold comments were becoming too biting.
5
5
John, 52, is also very familiar with the show’s format, having competed in the first series in 2006, when he finished in seventh place. He’s a pro at judging West End talent shows too.
John, who has also appeared in Doctor Who and Arrow, had stints on Andrew Lloyd Webber’s How Do You Solve a Problem like Maria?, Any Dream Will Do and I’d Do Anything.
And he has proved a hit with the public, coming third in last year’s I’m A Celebrity . . . Get Me Out Of Here behind Harry Redknapp and Emily Atack.
A Dancing on Ice source said yesterday: “Producers are delighted to have got John.
5
“He’s a good fit for the show as he knows how it works and has done judging roles before.
“They also feel he’s a bit more wholesome than Jason, who put a lot of noses out of joint with some of his comments. They think John will be a big success.”
The Sun previously revealed that ITV was plotting to get rid of Jason, 47, after concerns about his conduct.
Last series he was accused of bullying by reality star contestant Gemma Collins after they repeatedly clashed.
5
MOST READ IN BIZARRE
It led to bosses being worried that — in the wake of the axing of the Jeremy Kyle show — a contestant might complain about the broadcaster’s duty of care.
Jason later claimed he quit before he could be sacked. John starts his new role in January.
It was not the first time ITV bosses have axed Jason. He was an original on the panel from 2006 to 2011, but was ditched for the 2012 series.
5
Dancing on Ice judge Jason Gardiner quits the show following his controversial rows with contestant Gemma Collins
- GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]
Topics