Viewers of Dancing On Ice were left feeling underwhelmed by a segment dedicated to the memory of former contestant The Vivienne, who tragically died earlier this month.
The Vivienne, a star from RuPaul’s Drag Race and participant in the 15th season of the ITV skating show back in 2023, earned third place with pro skater Colin Grafton.
Just one week prior to the launch of Dancing On Ice’s 2025 series, fans were stunned by the sudden death of The Vivienne, born James Lee Williams, who passed away at just 32-years-old, the Mirror reports.
Following Sunday night’s opening dance act, presenters Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern took time in front of the cameras to honour the late artist.
Holly, 43, remarked: “Before we move on, like us, many of you have been saddened by the tragedy of The Vivienne’s passing last weekend.”
She continued, highlighting The Vivienne’s impact: “Now, they were a huge part of the show, making it all the way to the final in 2023 and they’ll be very sorely missed. Our thoughts are with The Vivienne’s loved ones at this sad time. So sad.”
Her co-host Stephen Mulhern, 47, concurred: “Absolutely,” before shifting his tone to introduce the evening’s event: “Ok, tonight we’ll see our first six couples take to the ice – the other six couples will perform next week – so lets crack on with the very first celebrity.”
Many fans were left feeling let down by the tribute segment and expressed their disappointment on social media, suggesting that the presenters could have done more to honour the late star.
One viewer posted on X: “I thought that they might of said/done a little more when it came to paying homage to The Vivienne, showing previous clips and, or a dance routine in memory of perhaps. #DancingOnIce.”
Another echoed the sentiment for more visual elements, commenting: “Is that it for a tribute to The Vivienne a few words why can’t we at least see some dances etc #DancingOnIce.”
A different fan criticised the show bluntly: “THATS IT! ? … Not even a black a white image? Appalling.”
However, some viewers felt the programme struck an appropriate tone with its homage, with one person tweeting: “@ITV #dancingonice Brilliant opening sequence! Gets you in the mood. Nice tribute to The Vivienne. And it’s always great to see Jayne and Chris, well backed up by Ashley and Oti. This is going to be a good series.”
Another simply shared their affection by typing: “The Vivienne” followed by several red heart emojis.
In response to the heartbreaking news of The Vivienne’s death Dancing On Ice partner Colin took to Instagram to express his sorrow, writing: “I can’t believe I’m writing these words. It is with an extraordinarily heavy heart that I say goodbye to my beautiful friend and skating partner, The Vivienne.”
The American skater went on to say: “Viv was and is a true icon in every sense of the word, and inspired thousands of people far and wide with everything they did and accomplished. They truly brought light into every room they entered, and gave so many people hope where there was none. I am truly heartbroken.
“What we were able to accomplish together on Dancing On Ice was truly remarkable and I know your bravery and our partnership inspired many people.”
He further added: “I will always be so proud of what we accomplished. Viv, your spirit, strength, and kindness will always stay with me and with everyone you touched. I will forever cherish our time together on and off the ice , you will forever be my Mary Poppins.
“I promise to carry your memory with me in everything I do. You taught me so much about so many things, and I am eternally grateful. Your legacy lives on.”
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