Dancing on Ice professional Tippy Packard has broken her silence following her sudden exit from the ITV show.
Just days before the programme’s launch, it was announced the 28-year-old was forced to quit the show due to a knee injury. Confirming the news on Instagram in a statement, Tippy wrote: “As I was stitching all these beautiful memories and writing to you all, it still brings tears to my eyes to be missing out on the rest of Eddie’s journey on Dancing on Ice.
“Unfortunately, I won’t be participating this year due to a knee injury in late November. Tippy continued: “As Eddie was already having to pick up skating and learn how to partner a few weeks after the training began, it was decided it was best for Eddie to continue the competition without me.”
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“I cherished the weeks I spent with Eddie, training and getting to know him personally, and of course our latte breaks with oatmeal cookies. I’m confident he’ll impress everyone with his skills, and please show support for Vicky and Eddie; they’re fantastic individuals who will surely put on a remarkable show.
(Image: tippyroo_2the_rescue/instagram)
Tippy, who has been a professional on the show since 2022, went on: “To all participants this year, celebs, and pros, I wish you good health and enjoyment throughout the series. A big thank you to my family and friends for checking in on me during this really difficult time, it is truly appreciated.
“It has not been easy to sit idle through this recovery as I have been lucky enough to never have a serious injury since I started skating at 3. I am so grateful for the ones who picked me up when I was so down, and kept me moving forward.”
Tippy revealed she is already back on the ice and recovering quickly, thanking her physio for his aid. She signed off the post with: “I appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to new opportunities on the horizon.”
The professional ice skater was partnered with iconic sportsman Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards, but he will now skate with Vicky Ogden. Vicky shared the news social media, writing: “Exciting announcement! I’m absolutely thrilled to share that I’ll be skating with the incredible Eddie on this season of Dancing On Ice.
(Image: Brett D. Cove / SplashNews.com)
“Eddie ‘The Eagle’ is a true legend who has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. This year we’re determined to show just how iconic he is. Together, let’s recreate the magic and cheer Eddie on like we did all those years ago. Are you ready? 5, 6, 7, 8 let’s do this Eddie!”
Eddie himself is a replacement, as Gogglebox star Stephen Lustig-Webb also dropped out after breaking his ankle. Ski jumper Eddie, 60, said at the time: “It’s bittersweet as whilst I’m delighted to be taking part in the new series I’m gutted for Stephen and wish him a speedy recovery. Dancing On Ice is a show I’ve always wanted to do. It’s a challenge I think I’m going to relish.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
