Jason Gardiner has quit ‘Dancing On Ice’.
The 47-year-old judge has been part of the ITV show since it started in 2006, but he has confirmed this week he won’t be returning for the next series in 2020.
In an Instagram video posted on Wednesday (21.08.19), he said: "I know there has been a lot of speculation about me and the upcoming series of ‘Dancing On Ice’.
"After all these years I feel it’s time to say goodbye to my judging role and return to things I have been putting on hold for a while."
Jason has starred in every series apart from one – when he was replaced by Louis Spence in 2012 – and he has seen the panel change over the years.
He added: "The past two series there have been new additions to the panel including the fantastic Ashley Banjo and the legends [Jayne] Torvill and [Christopher] Dean. I have absolutely loved sharing the panel with them."
The long-running judge revealed that his time on the show has been full of laughter and good times, but it’s also has its fair share of "trials and tribulations".
Jason said: "Holly, Phil, Jayne and Chris, we created something we can be really proud of after the ice has finally thawed. We’ve had a lot of laughs, trials and tribulations and I have loved working with all of you."
The acid-tongued star has had his share of disagreements over the years, including head coach Karen Barber, 58, although he did pay tribute to her in his social media video – but there was no mention of contestant Gemma Collins after their spats earlier this year.
He continued: "To the unsung heroes, the pros and coaches, including Karen Barber, without your hard work we would never have had the success we’ve had. I salute and applaud you."
Jason Gardiner confirms he won’t be returning to Dancing On Ice next year
