Dancing on Ice star Sean Rice has died at the age of 49.
The professional ice skater, who appeared on the ITV show in 2011 and 2012, sadly died on January 14, 2022, at the age of 49, friends have confirmed.
A spokesperson for Dancing On Ice said: “We are all deeply saddened to hear this news. Sean was a wonderful skater and friend to many on the Dancing On Ice team. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”
One of his close friends and fellow skaters Frankie Poultney said: “Pro skaters are heartbroken today, we lost a true larger than life great – an epic skater, a husband, father, and my friend of 20 years.
“Sean Rice, 20/07/72 – 14/01/22 gone too soon, but we will Love You For A Thousand Years. All of our thoughts are with Signey and Jodeyne.”
(Image: Ken McKay/Rex Features)
Sean famously appeared on the show with Angela Rippon in 2011 and the following year once again with Chemmy Alcott.
Chemmy has also shared tribute to the star as she took to Twitter to write: “Have just heard the tragic news that Sean Rice, my partner from DOI, has passed away.
“The world will miss your amazing energy and your healing hands. All my love to J and S.”
Sean’s friends have been sharing their devastation for his wife Jodeyne Higgins, who he also skated with, and their daughter Signey.
Matt Evers, another fellow skater, also shared tribute to Sean as he wrote: “One of the best… thank you Sean for your gift. This routine from The Professionals on Ice was incredible. It was a pleasure to know and work with you.”
Sean’s friend Frankie has also shared a GoFundMe which was launched on Saturday following the news of his death.
In the fundraiser, an organiser named Mary White wrote: “The world has lost a great man – a coach, son, friend, husband and poppa bear. It’s with immense sadness to say that Sean Rice has passed away.
(Image: ITV)
“Sean was a passionate, larger than life man who would stop and give to anyone who needed him. It’s with that same spirit, we are reaching out to everyone to pour prayers and love over Jodeyne and Signey during this very difficult time.
“So many people have reached out asking how they can help and so we have set up this Go Fund account to support Jodeyne and Signey at this time. Let’s take care of them the same way Sean always took care of others.”
Daily Star has contacted a representative of Sean Rice for comment.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
