Dancing on Ice fans are already backing one star for the win – despite only half of the contestants having performed. The hit ITV competition was back for its 17th series on Sunday night (January 12) with the first six celebrities taking to the ice.
Coronation Street’s Sam Aston was first to perform, followed by former TOWIE star Ferne McCann. Hollyoaks actress Chelsee Healey was next up, followed by footballer Anton Ferdinand.
Love Island’s Chris Taylor was last to perform, but it was TV favourite Michaela Strachan, known for her wildlife programmes, who quickly won the audience over with her partner Mark Hanretty. Fans of the show were quick to single her out as a potential winner after an impressive first performance.
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She is quickly becoming the favourite to take home the crown. Her first performance earned her a staggering 30.5 out of 40 from the judging panel, putting her top of the leaderboard.
One fan wrote on X “Michael’s 1st competitor who actually looks confident on the ice, potential winner #DancingOnIce.” Another said: “Knew it. Solo skating, great performance. Michaela Strachan is our first female Dancing on Ice winner in 12 years #DancingOnIce.”
“Kinda need michaela to win,” a third fan agreed, while a foruth echoed: “I give Michaela and Mark an 8.5. THIS WAS EXCEPTIONAL! The speed, the flow, the coverage of the ice, the transitions, the extensions into the finger tips, the pizazz, YOU ARE THE ONE TO BEAT! #DancingOnIce.”
Another fan said: “@michaelastracha was incredible!!!!! So much better then I thought she’d be. A real dark horse. great choreo from @Mark_Hanretty as well.”
And another viewer added: “Michaela and @Mark_Hanretty easily the best of the evening so far, proper skating and not just being carried around by the pro. #DancingOnIce.”
Dancing on Ice returns to ITV1 next Sunday night with the remaining six celebrities set to perform their first routines. . Those taking to the ice next week are: BBC The Traitors finalist Mollie Pearce, Olympic legend Sir Steve Redgrave, EastEnders star Charlie Brooks, Comedian Josh Jones, and TOWIE star Dan Edgar.