Dancing on Ice bosses are still left without a presenting duo mere weeks before the show returns – but one person has reportedly signed the deal.
TV presenter Stephen Mulhern is said to have signed on the dotted line after months of speculation and negotiations, but he doesn’t yet have a co-host. He’ll be stepping into Phillip Schofield’s shoes, but bosses are still hoping Holly Willoughby will reprise her role as host.
Holly confirmed she wouldn’t be returning to This Morning in October after a difficult year and has stayed away from any TV work since. But bosses remain hopeful they’ll be able to get her back on the show.
READ MORE: This Morning star ‘frontrunner to replace Holly Willoughby’ as Dancing On Ice host
READ MORE: Dancing On Ice bosses ‘assume Holly Willoughby will return’ but have back up plan
The Sun reported that Stephen would be fronting the show after being “hugely loved by viewers”. But after starting out in telly with Holly, they’re hoping his signing will lead to her return too.
(Image: Matt Frost/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
A source told the publication: “Knowing Stephen will be there beside her could be the comfort blanket Holly needs to say yes.” It had previously been reported that Holly was in two minds about whether to do the show or not.
It was claimed bosses had given her a contract and were eager to sign her up for the series, though she hadn’t confirmed what her plans were. Holly has been out of the spotlight since an alleged plot to kidnap and murder her was discovered by police in October.
Days after the allegations, Holly issued a statement confirming she would not be returning to This Morning. She told her followers at the time that it was “such a difficult goodbye” and praised them for being “incredible”.
(Image: Mike Marsland/WireImage)
She thanked ITV for being supportive in making her decision and said she will miss all her viewers so much. Holly had a sweet tribute on the show shortly after her exit and her fans rushed to share their support for her.
Holly stepped out in public for the first time earlier this week, but the star has remained silent on social media and all her other projects have been placed on hold.
With just one month to go until Dancing on Ice’s expected return, bosses are hoping to get a decision from Holly soon, but it’s reported they’ve got some stars in their back pocket if needed.
For more of the latest showbiz news from Daily Star, make sure you sign up to one of our newsletters here.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
