Space Update 143: Starship Takes the Spotlight

Dancing On Ice producers are reportedly on edge after Sir Steve Redgrave has faced multiple injuries during his training sessions. The Olympic rowing champion is slated to make his debut on the ice next Sunday, January 19.

The 62-year-old sports legend has shared that this training phase hasn’t been smooth sailing. Sir Steve, who boasts five Olympic gold medals for Great Britain, indicated that various health challenges and injuries have complicated his participation in the popular ITV show. He disclosed that he has been dealing with colitis, diabetes, and a frozen shoulder, and suffered a fall early in his training that worsened his shoulder issues. Additionally, he experienced a pulled hip flexor within just a few weeks of starting to skate.

Reflecting on the situation, Sir Steve mentioned that the show’s production team expressed considerable concern for his well-being, feeling the need to ensure his safety in preparation for the show. “I think the production team got very nervous, saying, ‘We’ve got to wrap him up in cotton wool. We’ve got to get him to the show,’” he recounted.

Despite these hurdles, Sir Steve remains optimistic about his chances in the competition, sharing, “Certainly in my deepest dreams – and it has to be a deepest dream – I think I’ve got a chance of winning this.” However, bookmakers paint a different picture. Sir Steve is currently favored to be the first contestant eliminated, with odds of 33/1 to take home the win.

In contrast, The Traitors star Mollie Pearce and Coronation Street actor Sam Aston are considered strong contenders, both listed at 4/1 odds to go all the way in the competition.

Dancing On Ice kicks off tonight at 6:30 p.m. on ITV1 and ITVX, marking the start of what promises to be an exciting season filled with surprises. Who will emerge victorious in this exhilarating showdown?