Ahead of its second live show, the new series of Dancing on Ice has found itself at the centre of a favouritism row.
And it's all down to one of the judges enjoying a night out with two of the contestants.
The ITV programme returned for 2020 last weekend, with the first set of skating stars on the rink including legendary chat show host Trisha Goddard, Diversity dancer Perri Kiely and H from Steps.
H and professional partner Matt Evers made history as the show's first same sex couple but now, just like Perri, who sparked fix claims thanks to his Diversity pal Ashley Banjo being a judge on the show, H and Matt have found themselves a target for favouritism accusations.
The pair were rehearsing for the next routine in Cardiff where John Barrowman joined them and it is the picture of the trio enjoying a might out at the city's Ivy restaurant that has sparked anger from some Dancing on Ice fans.
One source told The Sun : “It’s not on for the judges to be cosying up to the people they are meant to be judging. They’re obviously great friends so, of course, the fear is they will be treated more positively.
"There is a long series ahead and hitting the town with the judges opens up a minefield of problems.
“A couple of us feel as though it’s not in the spirit of a fair contest.”
West End star and I'm A Celebrity contestant John has only just joined the Dancing on Ice judging panel, having replaced outspoken judge Jason Gardiner for the new series.
As well as attracting some controversy, the new series has been plagued with injury so far with Michael Barrymore having to pull out completely after breaking his wrist , magician Ben Hanlin suffering an injury in training ahead of last weekend's first live show and famous chat show host Trisha Goddard falling over live on air.
And then on Thursday, pro during rehearsals - ouch!!!
Dancing on Ice continues on ITV on Sunday at 6pm.
