Michael Barrymore has quit ‘Dancing On Ice’ after breaking his hand.
The 67-year-old star was forced to step down from the upcoming figure skating competition after slipping on the ice and breaking a bone in his hand and he has now been replaced by ‘Blue Peter’ presenter Radzi Chinyanganya.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "It’s a real shame for Michael as he was hoping this would be his big comeback, but after his injury there is no way he could continue.
"Radzi is now going to have to get up to speed really quickly to get ready for the series which is now only weeks away."
Radzi was a ‘Blue Peter’ presenter for six years from 2013 until earlier this year.
No doubt veteran TV presenter Michael is devastated to have to pull out of the show, particular after pro partner Alex Murphy previously insisted he was better than Brian McFadden, who she was paired with last year.
She said: "He is so on-time and perfect. He’s lovely. He is an angel and a dream compared to who I had last year. A saint."
The comedian – who has hosted the likes of ‘Strike It Lucky’ and ‘Kids Say The Funniest Things’ – also revealed how thrilled he was to be taking part as he was confirmed as one of the first celebrities lined up for the programme.
Announcing his involvement, he said at the time: "I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone, I haven’t got a clue who everyone else is. I’m really excited!"
Michael had been hoping that ‘Dancing on Ice’ would resurrect his career, which fell apart when party guest Stuart Lubbock died in his swimming pool in 2001.
Michael was never charged with any wrongdoing but was criticised for leaving the scene before police arrived and earlier this year, he apologised for the first time for the tragedy on ‘Piers Morgan’s Life Stories’.
Following the apology, he revealed he was keen to make a comeback in showbusiness, explaining: "Since ‘Life Stories’ went out, I feel like it is the right time and right place but it is not for me to decide. I can’t give myself work."
Michael Barrymore quits Dancing on Ice
