Dancing On Ice will make major change after Adam Johnson's death, claims ex-star

31 October 2023 , 21:32

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A former Dancing On Ice professional has claimed ITV will reconsider the safety protocols for the show (Image: Matt Frost/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Dancing On Ice bosses are likely to review the protocol surrounding safety on the ice after the death of Adam Johnson.

The late ice hockey player died following a freak accident on October 28 while his team, the Nottingham Panthers were playing the Sheffield Steelers in the Challenge Cup. Johnson, 29, was fatally wounded when a skate blade slit his throat before he collapsed onto the ice in front of 8,000 fans at Sheffield's Utilita Arena.

The Minnesota, US, native was rushed to Sheffield's Northern General Hospital where he was pronounced dead. His tragic passing was not announced until October 29 when his family had been informed.

Frankie Seaman (right) claims Dancing On Ice bosses will have a major overhaul of the safety protocols on the show (ITV)

Adam Johnson tragically died following a match against the Sheffield Steelers over the weekend (Natalie Owen / SWNS)

Frankie Seaman who competed as a professional skater on Dancing On Ice between 2007 and 2016 believes that that safety measures will now be ramped up. She said: "I'm sure DOI bosses will be responding to this incident by putting more safety measures in place and be taking preventative precautions."

She went on to tell the MailOnline: "Safety at the training sessions on the ice rinks (outside of the studio) are pretty solitary, it's more often than not just a pro and their celeb so I would imagine they'll be stepping up supervision on those days. And hopefully reigning in the requests for the more dangerous tricks except from the more capable celebs/pro partnerships," before adding that she believed "nobody" thought such a tragic incident could happen.

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Following the news of Adam's death, his devastated mother Kari Johnson said on Facebook: "I lost half of my heart today. Love you always Munch." Meanwhile, his team, the Panthers said: "The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night.

Adam died following a freak accident at Sheffield's Utilita Arena (Panthers Images / SWNS)

"The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam’s family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time. Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam’s passing.

"Our thoughts are also with the fans and staff of both clubs, especially those who attended or were following the game, who will be devastated following today’s news. The Panthers would like to thank everyone who rushed to support Adam last night in the most testing of circumstances.

"Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The Club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him. We ask that the privacy of Adam’s family and friends, and everyone at the club is respected at this difficult time as we all seek to come to terms with our grief. Rest in peace Adam."

Daniel Bird