Dancing on Ice judge shares 'tense moments' led to judges being 'told off'

29 April 2023 , 16:07

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Dancing on Ice judge shares 'tense moments' led to judges being 'told off'

Dancing On Ice judge Ashley Banjo has shared an insight into the skating show's behind the scenes, as he confirmed one of his relationships with this series' stars led to 'tense moments' and saw him told off for misbehaving.

The Diversity dancer appeared on this year's skating show alongside judges Oti Mabuse and former Olympic skaters Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.

Whilst the four got on well, it was Ashley's banter and friendship with former Strictly Come Dancing star Oti that has apparently landed the pair in trouble with ITV show bosses.

His messing around and joking with Oti also reportedly earned him a stern 'telling off' by professionals Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.

Ashley Banjo and Oti Mabuse's jokes and banter have caused 'tense moments' on the Dancing On Ice set (David Fisher/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Diversity star Ashley told The Sun : "Oti and I have so much banter and such a laugh.

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"It gets us into trouble sometimes.

"Jane and Christopher are like 'behave- those two children over there. We hope to be back next year. It's a great team."

The star also opened up after comments arose that this year's series was fixed, as former gymnast Nile Wilson took home the trophy. The former GB athlete won first place after beating TOWIE star Joey Essex following a Bolero dance-off.

Whilst he firmly defended the ITV show against fixing rumours, Ashley did confirm that the programme can be a popularity contest with viewers voting for who they like best over talent and skill.

Judges Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean have reportedly 'told off' fellow judges Oti Mabuse and Ashley Banjo for their 'childish' antics

Ashley said: "It's not fixed, because that would be illegal. Of course, it is partially a popularity contest - it's not the Olympics. People vote for who they like. It's about people developing. Using a skill to express your performance."

The comments come after eagle-eyed viewers believed they spotted signs of a secret feud between professional skater Vanessa Bauer and her celebrity partner Joey Essex. The skating couple placed second behind professional Olivia Smart and her celeb partner Nile Wilson.

Ashley revealed the pair of judges 'get in into trouble sometimes' (David Fisher/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

As Nile was announced as the winner of this year's series last month, viewers spotted that Vanessa looked "fuming" and the star had seemed "p***** off" after her performance of the Bolero and appeared to be telling her TOWIE star partner off.

Speaking after Nile's win was announced, Joey admitted he missed a few steps, saying: "I am so happy for Nile and Olivia – I know I missed a few steps. Best time of my life, thank you to everyone."

Niamh Spence