DANCING On Ice stars Alexandra Schauman and Lukasz Rozycki have quit the show after 13 years.
The married couple, who first joined the ITV skating competition back in 2010, said they're "struggling to agree with changes to the show" and have ultimately decided to withdraw from the upcoming series.
The pair took a swipe at show bosses, saying they aren't interested in "increasingly contrived romantic narratives" and felt like they had no area for growth on the show.
Professional skater Alex, 43, said: "Lukasz and I are not returning for the upcoming season of Dancing On Ice, and wanted to say a few words about that before it is publicly announced.
"We have absolutely loved being part of the show for so long, but it has taken a very different angle and we struggle to agree with a lot of it."
They told the Mail Online: "Mostly we’ve realised there is no opportunity to 'grow' on the show or take on different roles.
READ MORE ON DANCING ON ICE
Full Dancing On Ice pro skater line up revealed after Matt Evers quits show
Dancing on Ice star Stephen Lustig-Webb QUITS show one week into training
"And maybe it’s not so attractive for the show that we aren’t dramatic, we treat people with respect, and we aren’t interested in the increasingly contrived romantic narratives."
Polish skater Lukasz, 44, admitted that the show had taken its toll on them "mentally and physically".
He opened up about the process being "stressful" and said at times it can become "overwhelming".
The star added: "But we have a very good relationship with the execs who have been very supportive, and we’ve definitely left the door open for discussions about returning in the future."
Most read in News TV
STRICTLY OVER
Karen Hauer pays tribute to Strictly’s Eddie Kadi as star AXED from show
POSH & FLIX
Victoria Beckham in talks for her own TV show after David’s Netflix hit
CASHING IN
Pressure builds on Captain Tom’s daughter as TV bosses film probing documentary
STRICTLY NO SMUT
Strictly bosses blast Anton du Beke after he stunned crowd with rude gag
The pair took to their social media to announce the decision on Monday.
Alongside the clip, they wrote: "After a very long travel day we’ve arrived safely in Florida.
"We are thrilled to be back performing in Christmas on Ice, and to be part of the creative team collaborating and working with really close friends.
"But, after all these years in the UK, we have mixed emotions about not taking part in the upcoming season of Dancing on Ice. We will miss the many friends and co-workers that have become our extended family.
"The support from our fans over the years has truly meant the world to us, but we are excited to have decided this season to pursue other passions we have in the skating world."
The continued: "Dancing on Ice is, and has always been close to our hearts. We’ve had some amazing experiences, gotten to meet and train some incredible people, worked with the legendary Torvill and Dean, and performed in some very memorable routines.
"We wish everyone taking part this year an incredible time. It has been a life changing experience. We will definitely be watching and supporting in January.
"Looking forward to the next few weeks, as we reconnect with life long friends and share our love of the ice. Stay tuned as our adventures unfold."
Their celeb pals and co-stars were gutted with the news and raced to share their support for the couple.
Vanessa Bauer wrote: "So much love to you both, I always look up to you. We will miss you."
Denise Van Outen commented: "Exciting! Best of luck you two. You’re the best."
Former Strictly professional dancer James Jordan added: "Good luck you two – you will both be missed on the show. Good luck with your new ventures."
Read More on The Sun
Countryfile star Adam Henson and wife Charlie open up about last-minute wedding
I’m a traveller girl & here’s 4 things gypsies do that country folk find odd
Over the last decade, Alexandra has partnered with a number of celebrities including Todd Carty, Sam Nixon, and James Jordan with whom she won in 2019.
Meanwhile, Lukasz have teamed up with Trisha Goddard, Myleene Klass, and Beth Tweddle with whom he made the final in 2014.
Source: Read Full Article