Dancing on Ice

Dancing on Ice pairs celebrities with professional figure skaters, who rehearse and perform routines on an ice rink in front of judges and a live TV audience. Each episode features choreographed programs that balance technical elements with entertainment value, while judges critique technique, costume and presentation. Performances can range from polished lifts to risky slips, creating a mix of training, performance pressure and tabloid-style drama as well known personalities try to learn a demanding sport and stay in the competition.

First broadcast in 2006, the series launched with Philip Schofield as main host and Holly Willoughby as co-presenter; Schofield later left and Willoughby returned across multiple runs. Stephen Mulhern joined as presenter from series 16 onward. The judging panel has rotated, with Christopher Dean and Jayne Torvill later becoming enduring figures among a long list of past judges.

Critics and viewers give mixed responses, reflected in a middling vote average of 5.2 out of 10 based on 13 votes. Reviewers often praise the spectacle and the visible learning curves as celebrities tackle complicated moves, while noting repetitive formats, predictable eliminations and production padding. Longtime viewers highlight the show's comfort TV appeal despite uneven critical esteem, and many tune in for the personalities as much as the skating.

As a staple of British Saturday night entertainment it has generated countless tabloid headlines around spectacular falls, training romances and wardrobe mishaps, turning some contestants into overnight talking points. The program contributed to a wider interest in recreational ice skating and inspired similarly structured talent formats. Its several revivals and steady prime time placement underline its staying power in UK pop culture.

Although Dancing on Ice hasn't been a frequent winner at major industry awards, it has delivered high-profile television moments and sustained viewer loyalty across many series. Network renewals, international interest in the format and strong tabloid coverage have been more tangible indicators of its impact than trophies.