Dancing on Ice star says 'end of an era' as they leave show after 12 years
Following the series 17 finale of Dancing on Ice, professional skater Mark Hanretty has announced his departure from the star-studded competition. After starring in 12 series on the ITV show, the 39-year-old confirmed to fans that his exit is the “end of an era”.
This came after the pro finished in second place alongside Springwatch star Michaela Strachan against the triumphant Coronation Street star Sam Aston and his partner Molly Lanaghan. On Thursday, Mark shared footage of him and Michaela being interviewed by host Holly Willoughby after they finished the competition as runner-ups. Alongside the emotional post on X, he penned: “End of an era for me!
“So grateful to all the people in front and behind camera who have made my 12 seasons on @dancingonice such a joy! Very grateful!”
Fans took to the comments in droves and shared their well-wishes for the skater, as one shared: “I’m so glad you got to the final on your last series … Thank you for the 12 seasons.”
Another added: “I was so happy you got to skate the bolero for your final show with DOI all the very best for your next adventure.”
A third echoed: “Your skating is perfection for me and, as a fellow Scot, have loved supporting you. Good Luck in your future endeavours. You will be missed.”
Including another who commented: “You have been amazing Mark! Loved watching you skate, so glad you got to do the bolero at the weekend.”
During his brief interview with Holly, the professional stated: “I want to thank Michaela and everybody. There are so many people that you don’t see that make this the amazing show it is, so thank you to you and all of them.”
In October 2024, Mark confirmed that this series of Dancing on Ice would be his last, but didn’t share the reason for his departure.
In his statement, he said: “This will be my last year as a pro skater and I’m eager to soak up every second of it!”
