Former Dancing on Ice star says show will be 'making change' after ice hockey player tragically died
Following the tragic death of US ice hockey player Adam Johnson this weekend, a former professional on Dancing On Ice has called for producers to reassess the show's health and safety procedures.
Nottingham Panthers star Johnson was killed in a horrifying ‘freak accident’ during a match against the Sheffield Steelers at Sheffield's Utilita Arena on Saturday night (28 October).
The Minnesota-born sportsman was accidentally slashed in the neck by opposing player Matt Petgrave during the derby clash, which was watched by more than 8,000 fans.
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Millions of ice hockey fans and ice skaters around the world have since paid emotional tributes to Johnson.
Among those to offer their condolences was former Dancing On Ice professional skater Frankie Seaman.
The ex-ITV star - who performed on the show alongside a celebrity partner each year between 2007 and 2016 - believes that safety measures should rightly be ramped up following Johnson's death.
Speaking to MailOnline, Seaman said: "I'm sure DOI bosses will be responding to this incident by putting more safety measures in place and be taking preventative precautions."
Describing safety at the training sessions with each year's stars as being 'pretty solitary', Seaman added that 'it's more often than not just a pro and their celeb' on the rink.
"I would imagine they'll be stepping up supervision on those days," she said.
"And hopefully reigning in the requests for the more dangerous tricks except from the more capable celebs/pro partnerships."
She went on to say of Johnson's passing that 'nobody' thought such a tragic incident could happen.
Seaman's plea for producers to reconsider safety on the show comes just days after one ice hockey team announced they'd changed their rules to assure that no such accidents happen on the rink again.
Oxford City Stars, who play in the National Ice Hockey League South Division 1, shared a statement explaining their move, saying they are making new commitments to player safety to honour Johnson.
"The club is proud to announce the introduction of mandatory neck guards for all players and coaching staff," the statement read.
"The club has ordered and is now awaiting delivery of neck guards for all players and coaches. Once received, these guards will be utilised during all on-ice activities going forward."
The message continued: "These guards will be a non-negotiable component of their attire during all practices and games, providing an extra layer of protection.
“In a poignant tribute to Adam Johnson's memory, this commitment signifies not only a significant moment for the Oxford City Stars, but also a cornerstone in advocating for enhanced safety standards across the sport."
LADbible has contacted ITV for comment.
Topics: ITV, TV and Film, Sport
Rhianna Benson