ITV Dancing on Ice star says show 'can't compete with Strictly' as he slams judging panel

A former Dancing on Ice star has claimed that the ITV skating show will never compete with Strictly Come Dancing's 'high standards' as he slammed the judging panel. Brendan Cole, who came runner-up on the show in 2022 with pro partner Vanessa, says ‘Dancing On Ice need to switch things up’.

The show is currently in its sixth week, with remaining contestants including TOWIE star Dan Edgar, EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks and former footballer Anton Ferdinand all skating in 80’s week in a bid to remain in the competition.

But opening up in a new interview with Betway, former contestant Brendan insisted that they need to make some changes to the current format.

The pro dancer, who was a professional dancer on Strictly for 14 years before leaving in 2018, also blasted the judging panel Ashley Banjo, Oti Mabuse, Jayne Torvill, and Christopher Dean, insisting they’re 'too nice' to contestants.

"The show is the same format, they haven't really changed anything. I thought they might try and change the format and make it a little different to what it has been in the past," Brendan told Betway Casino.

"The contestants and pros this year have had a lot of issues, and a lot of injuries. We’ve already seen everything, so there needs to be more excitement somehow.

"They had a headbanger performed the other night but that’s not actually that challenging, it’s more about momentum than skill. I want to see groundbreaking stuff so maybe they need to find contestants that can achieve that."

Comparing the skating contest to Strictly, Brendan said: "When I watch the choreography I think there’s something missing, something that Strictly has. Strictly has maintained a high standard and pushed boundaries.

"The quality of dancing on