Why has Rufus Hound left Dancing on Ice?

5 February 2021, 11:16

Rufus Hound was forced to pull out of Dancing on Ice. Picture: ITV

Has Rufus Hound left Dancing On Ice and who has replaced him?

Dancing On Ice is looking a little different this year, with no studio audience and social distancing measures in place.

But the show hasn’t been short on drama, after comedian Rufus Hound was forced to pull out just days after Denise Van Outen quit because of a shoulder injury.

So, why did Rufus Hound leave Dancing On Ice? Here’s what happened…

Why has Rufus Hound left Dancing on Ice?

After only two weeks of Dancing On Ice, Rufus Hound confirmed he would no longer be competing with his partner Robin Johnstone.

Rufus Hound axed from Dancing On Ice after testing positive for coronavirus

The comedian had to pull out when he received a second positive Covid test after coming into contact with someone who had the virus.

Rufus previously had to miss the third show to quarantine, but said in a video that he was leaving for good.

The star said: "Unfortunately, the rules on Dancing on Ice are completely cut and dry, very strict, because they need to keep everybody on that production as safe as possible.

"So it seemed like when I was just quarantining, there might be a window of opportunity for me to be able to get back to the show, a window that I now know doesn't exist."

Rufus Hound will no longer be competing on Dancing On Ice. Picture: ITV

Along with the video, Rufus posted: "As a result of contracting COVID, I am unable to continue to participate in this season of Dancing on Ice.

"It is a huge shame - not least because of all of the time and energy Robin and I had spent on trying to be able to deliver really original routines."

ITV also released a statement, confirming Rufus's exit, adding: "We can confirm that following a positive test result, Rufus Hound is unable to return to Dancing On Ice this weekend.

"Although Rufus and his partner Robin’s time on the ice has been all too brief, they can be truly proud of their achievements.

"We thank them for all their hard work and commitment to the show."