Dancing On Ice producers are reportedly considering axing Rufus Hound from the show amid a growing online backlash.
The 41-year-old comedian appeared in the launch episode of the ITV series and was granted a golden ticket through to the next round, which airs tonight, but will miss the show due to a coronavirus scare.
Over the last fortnight ITV has faced calls to kick Hound off the show for a series of historical tweets in which he used derogatory language such as "retard" and "gay lord", as well as one outrageous tweet in which he suggested that former PM Theresa May could have had some part in the Manchester bombings.
Hound is also alleged to have fallen out with his pro partner Robin Johnstone amid the furore, and according to The Sun, ITV are now considering replacing him with a back-up contestant - radio DJ Matt Edmondson.
"Bosses are panicking that Rufus is bad for the show and his comments have upset Robin and some of the other pros," a source told the newspaper.
"They are a diverse and multicultural bunch and it's embarrassing and disappointing that someone who makes these insensitive jokes is allowed on the show.
"Robin is all about empowering women and being positive and it's been tough for her to stomach. His comments have been outrageous."
In addition to Hound, Billie Faiers will also skip tonight's show following the death of her grandmother, while Denise van Outen has withdrawn from the show through injury and will be replaced by Team GB gymnast Amy Tinkler.
Neil Wilkes
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