Dancing On Ice
Season 11 ITV Choice (*123) 20:00 Reality
Reality show Dancing On Ice (2006- current) has brought back the big guns on the judging panel this season with Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean as head judges. What are their qualifications for the job? Oh, just gold medals from the 1984 Winter Olympic Games, over 80 combined years of ice skating and being pretty much the biggest names in pairs figure skating – ever.
You were mentors for the first nine seasons, what is the biggest difference as a judge? Chris We have enjoyed having more of a voice about what is happening on the ice. And a little bit less work for us older people. [Chris is 60, Jayne is 61] Jayne We don’t have the pressure of choreography. Going from six days a week to essentially one is nice. What stands out with the celebrities for trained eyes like yourselves? Jayne A solid start. It may be a simple routine, but if it’s done well, they’ll be the ones to watch. They probably have the skating skills that we’re looking for. Not everyone can ice skate, so how much preparation is there for the contestants? Chris From the beginning of October to the end of March and it’s a huge commitment. But it is necessary. The pro mentors are also putting together the choreography for the second series in a row, which was a challenge last time. Chris They are two distinct talents. The professionals need to get to know their celebrities and what the best things are to showcase them. If you’ve got a great skater, it’s easier of course. But this is about the celebrity, not to mentor. The show is about stepping out of comfort zones. What skill would you like to learn? Jayne: Is there a shopping show or shopping challenge? How much money can you spend in half an hour?