Dancing On Ice Contestant Emotional After Abrupt Departure, Opens Up About Sudden Exit

 

Dancing on Ice professional Tippy Packard has finally spoken out after her abrupt departure from the ITV show.

Just ahead of the programme’s launch, it was revealed that the 28-year-old had to withdraw from the show due to a knee injury. Confirming this development on Instagram through a statement, Tippy expressed, “As I reminisce about all these wonderful memories and share them with you, it still brings tears to my eyes knowing that I won’t be a part of the rest of Eddie’s journey on Dancing on Ice.”

“Unfortunately, I won’t be able to participate this year due to a knee injury sustained in late November,” Tippy elaborated. She continued, “Since Eddie was already adjusting to skating and learning how to partner just a few weeks into training, it was decided that it would be best for Eddie to continue the competition without me.”

“I truly valued the weeks I spent training with Eddie and getting to know him on a personal level, not to mention our latte breaks with oatmeal cookies. I am confident that he will impress everyone with his skills, so please show your support for Vicky and Eddie; they are both fantastic individuals who will undoubtedly deliver a remarkable show.”

Tippy, a seasoned professional on the show since 2022, expressed heartfelt sentiments: “To all participants this year, celebrities, and professionals, I extend my wishes for good health and enjoyment throughout the series. A heartfelt thank you goes out to my family and friends for their support during this challenging period; it is truly appreciated.

“Sitting idle during this recovery hasn’t been easy, especially considering I’ve been fortunate enough to avoid serious injuries since I started skating at the age of 3. I am deeply grateful to those who lifted me up when I was at my lowest and kept me moving forward.”

Tippy has shared that she’s back on the ice and making a swift recovery. She expressed gratitude to her physio for the support and concluded her post with a heartfelt message: “I appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to new opportunities on the horizon.”

The accomplished ice skater, who previously partnered with the legendary sportsman Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards, will no longer be skating with him. Eddie is set to join forces with Vicky Ogden, and the news was announced by Vicky on social media. She excitedly wrote, “Exciting announcement! I’m absolutely thrilled to share that I’ll be skating with the incredible Eddie on this season of Dancing On Ice.”

“Eddie ‘The Eagle’ stands as a true legend, capturing the hearts of fans globally. This year, our aim is to showcase the sheer icon status he holds. Let’s come together to recreate the magic and support Eddie, just as we did all those years ago. Are you prepared? 5, 6, 7, 8 – let’s do this, Eddie!”

In a twist of fate, Eddie is stepping in as a replacement for Gogglebox star Stephen Lustig-Webb, who withdrew from the competition due to a broken ankle. The 60-year-old ski jumper expressed mixed emotions, stating, “It’s bittersweet; while I’m delighted to be part of the new series, I’m gutted for Stephen and wish him a speedy recovery. Dancing On Ice is a show I’ve always wanted to do. It’s a challenge I think I’m going to relish.”