Faye Brookes is to take part in ‘Dancing on Ice’.
The former ‘Coronation Street’ actress was unveiled as the ITV skating show’s fourth contestant today (24.09.20), and the 33-year-old star admitted she does have some experience on the ice because her father used to play ice hockey.
Speaking on ‘Lorraine’, she said: "I have a little [experience]. I might be Bambi on the first day. Who knows?
"But my dad used to play ice hockey, and when we were kids it was definitely something we did often.
"He would always make me go for it. There were no official lessons. It was just having fun and a bit of a weekend activity with the family."
Faye will be creating a coronavirus bubble with her professional partner, and they will be tested regularly.
She said: "I’m going to be creating a little bubble with my partner, who I still don’t know who it’s going to be. The anticipation is so nerve-wracking, but also exciting.
"We will be tested quite regularly, to make sure we are keeping everyone around us safe, too."
The ex-cobbles star – who played Kate Connor on the ITV soap – is looking forward to the public seeing her true self, rather than her portraying a character.
She said: "I had to meet with the team and they had to see me on the ice. We had a coach with us, and they took us through a few of the basics.
"They kind of just get to know you. This is the first time people are going to see me, not being a character or hiding behind anything – just Faye.
"I’m definitely up for the challenge. I’ve been keeping myself happy and healthy during lockdown."
Faye is also planning to speak to her former ‘Corrie’ co-stars Jane Danson (Leanne Battersby) and Brooke Vincent (Sophie Webster) to get some ice skating advice after they both previously appeared on ‘Dancing on Ice’.
She said: "As soon as this interview is over I can contact them.
"This is the biggest secret I’ve ever kept in my life.
"I saw Brooke yesterday and I was desperate to tell her, but I was just like, ‘No, I’ll wait. One more day.’
"She’ll definitely be the first text message I send after this interview."
This year’s series has a soaps feel to it so far with ‘Neighbours’ actress Denise van Outen, and Emmerdale’s Joe-Warren Plant previously confirmed for the show.
Myleene Klass was the first celebrity contestant announced.