DOI coach Karen Barber breaks down in tears and is comforted by Holly after show gives update on Greg Rutherford
DANCING On Ice coach Karen Barber broke down in tears and was comforted by Holly Willoughby after the show gave an update on Greg Rutherford’s condition.
The ITV programme was thrown into chaos when the retired athlete, 37, was forced out of tonight’s show due to a serious injury.
Giving viewers a better understanding of the situation, Dancing On Ice creative Dan Whitson appeared on-screen where he confirmed Greg had sustained an injury from a “really bad accident” during rehearsals today.
He told the audience, “Were so sad to let him go but obviously we wish him all the best and he was just doing so well so it was so frustrating.”
Karen added: “From day one we both predicted they would be in the final. Both Olympians, when you get those together it could have easily been gold.”
Earlier in the episode, Holly and Stephen addressed the elephant in the room, revealing Greg had pulled out of the competition.
The blonde beauty said, “Now, you may have noticed that Greg and Vanessa weren’t part of our opening and unfortunately Greg injuried himself in rehearsals earlier today.
“I know, we’re all completely gutted and sadly he cannot continue in the competition. But we’re gonna be hearing more about that a little bit later on in the show.”
Stephen added, “I’m so sorry for him, you know. I’m sure he’s watching now and get well soon.”
Holly replied, “It’s awful, isn’t it?”
The final continued with the three remaining celebrities, Miles Nazaire, Ryan Thomas and Adele Roberts – with the Big Brother star crowned third place.
Greg’s professional skating partner Vanessa James announced the news on social media, saying: “Unfortunately Greg has sustained a significant injury this morning at rehearsals and won’t be able to perform tonight.
“We are on our way to the hospital for Greg to get examined further and receive the treatment he needs.”
A spokesman for the show added: “Sadly Olympian Greg Rutherford MBE has had to withdraw from Dancing On Ice after sustaining an injury whilst in rehearsals for the final episode of the current series.
“Greg and Vanessa have been such a popular couple this series and have performed some truly memorable routines. We will be helping to support Greg and wish him well with his recovery. We also want to thank him for being such a treasured member of the Dancing on Ice family.”
Greg shared Vanessa’s post and added a tearful emoji.
Just hours earlier, the excited star had given fans a glimpse of his breakfast and joked about the fake tan stains on his bed sheets.
Understandably, fans are devastated by his exit.
One commented: “Oh nooooo! You guys must be gutted. Get better soon Greg x.”
Another said: “Oh no, sorry to hear this. Hope Greg is OK. You two were always my winners.”
A third said: “You were amazing. Gutted to not see you both tonight. Most important thing is Greg is ok.”
Betting company Coral had believed that it was going to be the “closest final in history”.
Made In Chelsea star Miles was 5-4 to win, followed by Greg (6-4), Adele (7-2), and Ryan (5-1).
Dancing On Ice final odds
Ladbrokes latest betting predicts that this could be the closest ever final of Dancing on Ice
Miles Nazaire and Vanessa Bauer – 6/4
Greg Rutherford and Vanessa James – 2/1
Adele Roberts and Mark Hanretty – 7/2
Ryan Thomas and Amani Fancy – 6/1