In a dramatic U-turn that’s sent fans of the glittering ice spectacular into overdrive, ITV has officially confirmed that Dancing on Ice will skate back onto screens for a brand-new series in 2026 – just months after widespread reports claimed the beloved show had been permanently put on ice!

The long-running celebrity skating competition, which first twirled onto British TV in 2006, appeared doomed after its 17th series wrapped in March 2025 with Coronation Street heartthrob Sam Aston lifting the trophy. Viewing figures had dipped dramatically – the launch episode drew under 3 million viewers across ITV and ITVX, a far cry from the show’s peak audiences of over 12 million – sparking intense speculation that bosses were ready to hang up the skates for good.

An ITV spokesperson had previously announced on March 26, 2025: ‘Following another successful series earlier this year, Dancing on Ice will be rested in 2026 with no current plans for another series.’ The statement, echoed across outlets like The Mirror, The Sun, BBC, and Radio Times, thanked the cast, crew, celebrities, and everyone involved over 17 seasons (plus the original run from 2006-2014). It came as skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean performed what was billed as their final routine on the show and announced retirement from performing after their farewell arena tour.

Fans were devastated. Social media erupted with heartbreak – ‘End of an era!’ one viewer posted, while another lamented: ‘No more sequins and spins? Gutted!’ Holly Willoughby, who hosted alongside Stephen Mulhern after Phillip Schofield‘s 2023 exit amid controversy, shared an emotional Instagram tribute: ‘I will miss it hugely, but I count myself so lucky to have had it for as long as we did.’

But hold the tissues – in a stunning reversal, ITV has now given the green light for Dancing on Ice to return in early 2026! Insiders tell us the decision came after behind-the-scenes talks, strong viewer feedback, and a realization that the format still has legs despite the ratings dip. ‘The show has a loyal fanbase and massive nostalgia value,’ a source spilled. ‘Bosses saw the outcry and decided it’s worth another spin – especially with potential for fresh twists to boost numbers.’

The news has sparked wild excitement online. Fan accounts are buzzing with speculation about the lineup, judges, and whether Torvill and Dean might return in a mentoring role (even if not performing). ‘YES! Bring back the magic!’ one thrilled follower tweeted, while others begged for big-name celebs to sign up: ‘Get some footballers or Love Island stars on the ice – ratings would soar!’

Dancing on Ice has always been a winter staple – a glamorous mix of celebrity courage, pro-skater expertise, and dramatic falls (both literal and figurative). Launched in 2006 as ITV’s answer to BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, it featured Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby as hosts, with Torvill and Dean heading the judging panel alongside experts like Jason Gardiner (famous for his brutal critiques).

The original run ran nine seasons until 2014, when it was axed amid falling viewers. But the revival in 2018 breathed new life into it – relocating to a state-of-the-art rink at Bovingdon Airfield, introducing fresh pros, and drawing in stars from soap worlds, sports, reality TV, and beyond. Winners have included rugby hunk Gareth Thomas, actor Ryan Thomas, gymnast Nile Wilson, and most recently Sam Aston, whose emotional journey with partner Molly Lanaghan captivated audiences.

Behind the sparkle, though, production is no walk in the park. Celebs commit to months of grueling training – often six-figure paychecks reflect the risk of injury and time away from other gigs. ITV foots hefty bills for the 12 pros, judges (now including Oti Mabuse and Ashley Banjo after lineup changes), hosts, and elaborate sets. The 2025 series faced extra scrutiny after Schofield’s departure and Holly’s reduced ITV commitments (she stepped back from You Bet! and other projects).

The ‘rested’ announcement in March 2025 felt final to many – especially with Torvill and Dean bowing out and no immediate recommission. Rumors swirled that high costs and competition from streaming were to blame. Some even speculated The Voice UK might shift slots or other formats fill the gap.

But ITV’s latest confirmation flips the script! While details are scarce – no official start date beyond ‘2026,’ no host announcements, no celeb teases – the network is said to be ‘fully committed’ to making the comeback bigger and better. ‘Expect innovations,’ our source hinted. ‘Perhaps guest judges, themed weeks, or a push for diversity in contestants to reignite buzz.’

Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern are favorites to return – their chemistry has been a highlight since Schofield left. Fans adore Holly’s warmth and Stephen’s cheeky banter. ‘They make the show,’ one viewer gushed. Judges Oti and Ashley seem locked in, with calls for Torvill and Dean to stay on in advisory roles or special appearances.

As for celebs? Bookies are already odds-on for big names. Could we see Love Island alumni, Premier League legends, or even a surprise politician? Past lineups featured everyone from EastEnders stars to Olympians – the variety is part of the charm.

The show’s cultural impact is huge: it popularized figure skating in the UK, boosted ice rinks nationwide, and created iconic moments – from Beth Tweddle’s flips to Joey Essex’s charm offensive. Injuries have added drama too – broken bones, concussions, the lot – but winners often credit the experience with life-changing confidence.

With 2026 marking what would have been the 20th anniversary (counting the break), a return feels poetic. ITV likely sees it as a safe bet in a crowded schedule – winter escapism with glitz, gossip, and genuine emotion.

Fans are counting down already. ‘The ice is melting – but the show’s back!’ one post read. Whether ratings rebound or this is a final hurrah remains to be seen, but for now, sequins are sparkling again.

Get ready to lace up – Dancing on Ice is gliding back in 2026!