Ice skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean have announced their decision to retire from television performances, marking the end of an era after their extraordinary career spanning nearly five decades. The celebrated pair, well-known for their dazzling displays on the ice, won 16 gold medals across World, European, and British Figure Skation Championships. They originally retired from professional skating in 1998 but have continued to charm audiences on the reality show Dancing On Ice since it first aired in 2006. Recently, they shared with fans and viewers alike their plans to bow out after this season.
The duo's announcement coincides with growing rumors about the future of Dancing On Ice itself, as ratings appear to be on the decline. Once pulling in around 12 million viewers, this year's season saw its launch episode drawing only 2.9 million. The show's uncertain future has sparked concerns among its dedicated fanbase, with insiders voicing apprehensions about its potential cancellation. An ITV spokesman echoed the sentiments on March 9, 2025, stating, "The Dancing on Ice team is fully concentrating on the much-anticipated series finale this coming Sunday and, hence, no decision has been made on the future of the show."
While assessing their long careers, Dean, now 66, reflected candidly on their decision during the High Performance podcast, noting, "Fifty years is a nice round number I think. It’s been a long time... leave the stage before the stage leaves you. I think it’s the right time." Torvill, 67, also shared insights about the toll of skating on their bodies, indicating, "If you’ve had a period of time when you’ve not skated... it’s always there. It’s like the story of riding the bike. We've done it our whole lives, but there are aches and pains every now and then."
Fellow dancer and winner of Sky Vegas ITV show, James Jordan, recently expressed his admiration for the couple's decision to retire, stating, "Torvill and Dean are still incredible, but there’s...a point where you think, ‘If I keep going, it won’t be the same, and I don’t want people to see me like this.’” Despite his respect for their choice, he admitted being saddened by the impending loss of their performances, stating, "Letting go is never easy... when it stops, it can feel like losing a piece of yourself. I love watching them skate even now, so of course, I’m gutted, but at the same time, I admire them for knowing when the time was right."
While news of their retirement has impacted many fans, there is hope from Torvill and Dean for continued involvement with Dancing On Ice as judges should the show continue. Christopher mentioned on Good Morning Britain, "If Dancing On Ice continues, we’ll just come back as judges, but really, it is time for us. It’s 50 years of skating together and it takes its toll on the body.”
Following their announcement, around 3 million viewers turned their attention to the show as anticipation builds for the finals. Springwatch star Michaela Strachan has emerged as the favorite to win this year, alongside competition from Corrie star Sam Aston, TOWIE’s Dan Edgar, and former footballer Anton Ferdinand. The atmosphere surrounding this season’s finale feels especially bittersweet as fans prepare to say goodbye to the iconic skaters.
With the financial dynamics also at play, the future of Dancing On Ice is compounded by the high expenses associated with production, including celebrity salaries and maintaining the extravagant sets. Many of this season’s 12 celebrity contestants reportedly command six-figure salaries, with ITV investing significant resources in its presenters, professional skaters, and judges.
The potential decision to halt Dancing On Ice has been met with disappointment from long-time viewers and fans of Torvill and Dean. With 20 years under its belt, there is immense nostalgia surrounding the show, yet ITV has suggested the need for increased viewership to justify its costs. One insider noted, “There are very real fears this is the end of the road for Dancing On Ice. It’s had good run for nearly 20 years... but the sad truth is there’s just not enough of them.”
Aside from their scheduled performances, Torvill and Dean’s debuts have become synonymous with the resurrection of ice ballet on television. They debuted professionally together following their Olympic success and have since built their careers on innovative performances celebrated by audiences around the globe.
Looking back at their dazzling legacy, many agree it’s difficult to envision the show without them. Torvill and Dean have inspired countless individuals, both on and off the ice, and their decision to retire provokes mixed emotions of gratitude for their contributions and sadness for their departure from live performances. Yet, perhaps this is the perfect moment for them to step away from the spotlight, having mastered their craft and brought joy to millions. Their impact on figure skating and the world of entertainment will certainly endure, leaving fans eager for their potential return to judge future competitors.
While the finale approaches, fans and viewers alike prepare for what may very well be the last show, holding on to the bittersweet memories created by Torvill and Dean and reflecting on the unforgettable legacy they leave behind.