The forthcoming series of Dancing On Ice has reportedly undergone a further shake-up after eight of the show's professional skaters were axed. According to The Sun, the move has been made in a big to 'freshen up' the show - with other changes including the departure of Louie Spence and Katarina Witt and the return of Jason Gardiner to the judging panel. Among those on the hitlist are Nina Ulanova, who skated to victory with Matthew Wolfenden in the 2012 series, along with Jodeyne Higgins - who also made the final with Chico Slimani - her skating husband Sean Rice, and American ice dancer Brooke Castile, who lasted just one series. Alexandra Schaumann, Lukasz Rozycki, Matt Gonzalez and series regular Frankie Poulteney are also facing the chop. However other series regulars including Daniel Whiston and Matt Evers would appear to be safe - with reports that the latter is already in training with Pamela Anderson for the show - while new skaters tipped to join include husband and wife team Robin Johnstone and Andy Buchanan, adagio skater Jenna Harrison and Russian ice dancer Olga Sharutenko. French skater Michael Zenezini, who reached the final with Chloe Madeley in 2011, is also set to rejoin the line-up. The celebrities rumoured to be taking to the rink when the show returns in January include Anthea Turner, Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle, EastEnders' Matt Lapinskas, Corrie star Samia Ghadie, Olympic boxer Luke Campbell, cricketer Gareth Thomas and TV presenter Keith Chegwin. "Dancing On Ice is heading for its best year ever," a source told The Sun. "Every single aspect is being improved." The full line-up will be revealed later this month.
