Dan Whiston is thrilled ‘Dancing on Ice’ will host its first same-sex couple on the upcoming series.
The 43-year-old figure skater – who has appeared in ten seasons of the show as a pro and returns this year as a creative director – is excited for the possibilities that could open up from featuring a same-sex pairing on the ITV show.
He told The Sun newspaper’s Bizarre TV column: "It is mega and really exciting that we’re doing it. It’s progress to do the male-on-male routine. It sets a new challenge but it could open up new pathways."
The move to have a same-sex dancing duo comes as rival show ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ – which airs on BBC One – said it was "proud" to have featured same-sex pairs during the professional group numbers, and hinted it could allow same-sex competitor pairs in the future.
A BBC spokesman said this year: "We are completely open to the prospect of same-sex pairings between celebrities and pro dancers in the future, should the opportunity arise."
The ‘Dancing on Ice’ pairs will officially be revealed in a special Christmas edition ahead of the series premiere in January, but it has already been revealed Ian ‘H’ Watkins will be partnered with Matt Evers.
The 43-year-old former Steps star will make history on the ITV competition when it airs next year, as he’ll be the first contestant to ever be paired up with a professional of the same sex.
A show source previously said: "After conversations with the ‘Dancing on Ice’ production team, H enquired as to the possibility of being paired with a male pro skater.
"Bosses at ‘Dancing on Ice’ are fully supportive of a same-sex partnership, so this year H will be paired with Matt.
"It’s a huge moment in TV history. A lot of viewers will be watching and the hope is it might set a trend."
Dancing On Ice creative director Dan Whiston thrilled for same-sex couple
