The latest episode of *Dancing on Ice* saw a dramatic shift in the competition format, 

as Holly Willoughby revealed that the much-anticipated skate-off would be returning to the show next week. 

This change comes after a controversial decision earlier in the season to remove the skate-off, leaving some fans disappointed and feeling that the show was losing its edge. 

The skate-off is a crucial part of *Dancing on Ice* as it gives the remaining celebrities and their professional partners a second chance to stay in the competition. 

However, during the 2025 season, viewers were upset when it was announced that the couple with the fewest public votes would be eliminated immediately, 

without the traditional battle on the ice. This led to a flurry of complaints, with many expressing frustration over the lack of suspense and the rushed conclusion of the show each week. 

“I felt tonight’s ending was terribly rushed and very abrupt! Change the format!” one fan tweeted after the controversial episode. Another echoed similar sentiments, writing, “What a pointless way to end the show.” The removal of the skate-off left many viewers feeling that the stakes had been lowered, and the competition no longer had the same intensity. 

In response to these concerns, Holly made an announcement during the latest live show, which aired on February 2, 2025. “Listen, this is very important – I have an announcement to make,” Holly told the audience. “Next week things are going to change somewhat because the skate-off is back. That does change everything.” This news was met with a positive reception, as fans were eager to see the drama and excitement return to the ice. The skate-off not only provides an emotional moment for the eliminated contestants but also creates an element of suspense that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. 

While the skate-off’s return was a welcome change, *Dancing on Ice* had already seen a dramatic weekend with another major news item – professional skater Vanessa Bauer was forced to quit the competition due to a serious injury. Vanessa, 28, had been partnered with *Love Island* star Chris Taylor for the 2025 season. The pair had been making a strong impression with their performances, but Vanessa’s untimely exit threw a wrench into their plans. 

In a tearful Instagram video, Vanessa shared the heartbreaking news with her followers. “I’m here today with rather upsetting news,” she began. “I am unfortunately not going to be able to continue on *Dancing on Ice* with Chris.” She went on to explain that she had suffered a backstage injury just before a live show, which had initially seemed minor but later turned out to be much more severe. 

“I didn’t realise how bad it was then, but we did an MRI and it turned out that I have a completely torn ligament, grade three sprain injury, and a major grade two sprain injury,” she explained. Vanessa emphasized that, despite her high pain tolerance, continuing to skate with the injury could make it worse, so she had made the difficult decision to step away from the competition to focus on her recovery.

The announcement of Vanessa’s exit was met with an outpouring of support from fans, with many expressing their disappointment that one of the most talented professionals would no longer be part of the competition. “I’m really sad that we won’t see her skate with Chris anymore,” one fan wrote, while another commented, “Wishing Vanessa a speedy recovery – she was doing such an amazing job with Chris!”

Vanessa’s departure was especially emotional for her partner, Chris, who had been making impressive strides as a dancer under her guidance. However, the show quickly adjusted to the change, with fellow professional Robin Johnstone stepping in to partner with Chris for the live show. 

As *Dancing on Ice* continues, viewers are eager to see how the new format with the returning skate-off will impact the competition. With Vanessa’s exit and the introduction of a more thrilling elimination process, the stakes are higher than ever. Fans can look forward to a more intense, suspenseful contest as the show progresses into its next phase, with the skate-off adding an exciting twist to the already thrilling season. 

Ultimately, *Dancing on Ice* continues to deliver high drama and excitement, as both injuries and changes to the format keep viewers on their toes. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the show, it’s clear that this season promises to be one full of surprises, triumphs, and emotional moments.

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