Dancing On Ice is known for its dazzling performances and glamorous costumes, but behind the scenes, there have been some terrifying injuries that have left viewers gasping. From sliced scalps to dislocated shoulders, the show has seen it all. Let’s take a look at some of the most shocking accidents that have happened over the years.
2024 – Stephen Lustig-Webb’s Heartbreaking Exit
In the latest series of Dancing On Ice, Gogglebox star Stephen Lustig-Webb suffered a heartbreaking injury before even making it to his debut. During rehearsals, he broke his ankle and had to withdraw from the competition. Stephen shared a photo of himself resting on the sofa, explaining that he had undergone surgery and would be on crutches for a few months. Despite his disappointment, he expressed his support for the other contestants and professionals.
2022 – Vanessa Bauer and Brendan Cole’s Near-miss
Last year, professional skater Vanessa Bauer and her celebrity partner Brendan Cole had a near-miss during their rehearsals. Vanessa shared a photo on Instagram showing a painful-looking gash across her back, caused by Brendan’s ice skate. Brendan himself suffered a training accident, “popping his groin” and requiring two weeks of rest after just recovering from a concussion.
2021 – Rebekah Vardy’s Bloodied Partner
In the 2021 series, WAG Rebekah Vardy accidentally cut her dance partner Andy Buchanan’s face with her skate blade. Andy needed urgent medical treatment, and Rebekah was shocked by the amount of blood. She later realized the dangerous nature of the show and the risks involved.
2012 – Jennifer Ellison’s Gruesome Injury
In 2012, Jennifer Ellison attempted a scorpion kick that went terribly wrong. Her skate sliced into her head, leaving her bleeding heavily. Despite the injury, Jennifer bravely continued with the routine, her blonde hair turning red from the blood. She described the experience as being hit by a brick and thought the back of her head would be hanging off.
David Seaman’s Unfortunate Drops
Former England goalkeeper David Seaman had a couple of accidents during his time on Dancing On Ice. In one incident, he unintentionally dropped his partner, Pam O’Connor, while attempting the notorious headbanger move. Pam suffered a chin injury that required stitches. In another live show, David dropped Pam again, causing her to dislocate her shoulder.
Matt Evers’ Painful Neck Spin
Professional skater Matt Evers ended up in the hospital after a failed attempt at the “neck spin” in 2012. Hollyoaks star Jorgie Porter accidentally cut his face open with her blade during the maneuver. Despite the warning from Matt, the injury occurred, causing him significant pain.
Vanilla Ice’s Ice Cold Knockout
During a training session in 2011, US rapper Vanilla Ice slipped on the ice and hit his face, knocking himself out for three minutes. He was bleeding heavily and had to be taken to the hospital for treatment. Vanilla compared the impact to being “hit by Mike Tyson.”
Denise van Outen’s Shoulder Trouble
TV personality Denise van Outen injured her shoulder while skating with Matt Evers. She initially refused medical help to not burden the NHS but was eventually forced to seek treatment. Scans revealed that she had partially dislocated her shoulder and had three bone fractures. Despite trying to continue, Denise had to withdraw from the show due to the extent of her injuries.
Joe Swash’s Cauliflower Ear
TV funnyman Joe Swash found himself with a cauliflower ear after accidentally kicking himself in the ear during training. He needed emergency surgery to drain infected fluids from the ear. Joe’s injury was unusual and left his partner, Alex Murphy, shocked and bewildered.
Brian McFadden’s Shoulder Pop
Former Westlife star Brian McFadden dislocated his shoulder while practicing a lift with Alex Murphy. The injury caused damage to his rotator cuff as well. Despite this setback, Brian was able to continue on the show, although he missed out on a spot in the 2019 final after falling during the semi-final.
Yebin Mok’s Stab Wound
Professional skater Yebin Mok suffered a “nasty” injury during training. She fell onto the back of her partner Graham Bell’s skate, which caused a deep cut on her leg. Yebin had to undergo emergency surgery to clean and stitch up the wound. Thankfully, there was no nerve or tendon damage, and after a few weeks of rest, she returned to the ice for a special performance.