Pro skater Alex Murphy has revealed that she has been ditched from Dancing On Ice despite winning last year's show.
The 31-year-old, reigning champion with ex-EastEnders star Joe Swash, announced the shock decision in a post on Instagram.
"For the last three years, Dancing On Ice has not only been my job, but also what I considered to be my family," she wrote. "I am broken hearted to announced that I have recently been informed that I will not be re-contracted for Dancing On Ice 2021 series.
"This decision has come as a huge shock to me. I absolutely love the show and had hoped to go back for 2021. I have been left feeling bewildered, lost, and devastated. I am so grateful for the three years that I had on this incredible show and I will wholeheartedly miss everyone and everything about it.
"Though I am heartbroken, I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, and although this hurts right now, I will pick myself up and look forward towards the future.
"Thank you so much to all my colleagues at DOI and most importantly the viewers for the constant support and love that you have shown me the last 3 years. It was an incredible part of my list and though it is ending sooner than I would have liked, I am so grateful for the memories."
Show judge Ashley Banjo admitted that he was surprised by the news, replying "Can't believe that...", while co-host Phillip Schofield posted a teary emoji.
Meanwhile, a confused Swash replied: "What is going on!!! Terrible decision"
Confirming the news of Murphy's departure, an ITV spokesperson said: "Each series the Dancing On Ice team looks at our existing lineup and explores opportunities to potentially introduce some new faces to the skating professional team.
"Alex Murphy will not be appearing in the next series and we wish her all the best for the future."
The new series is expected to begin in January on ITV.
Neil Wilkes
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