Dancing on Ice star Matt Evers says ITV have implemented more “mental support” in the wake of Caroline Flack’s death.
The pro skater, 44, is currently training with his 2021 partner Denise Van Outen, who he has moved in with to create a bubble.
Speaking about losing “part of the ITV family” in Caroline’s death in February, which followed the deaths of two former Love Island contestants, he said: “Now more than ever we have a lot of support.
“We’ve always had a little bit of support, but through the tragedies that have happened, they have implemented a lot more mental support.”
The professional ice skater says the pros become a “best friend, babysitter and psychologist” as well as an ice coach to their partners and their families.
Recalling former partner Denise Welch, his partner in 2011, he admits: “I was also the drink police because she loved to go out.”
Matt, who is still friends with Denise, added: “She is sober now. Dancing on Ice changed her life.”
Speaking on the Keep Calm and Carry On podcast, Matt says the cast endure a “post show depression” when the series ends, after the rush of the excitement of the series which is “mentally really difficult” to adapt to.
“We have the post-show comedown from the television series,” he said.
“I always get sick as soon as the show comes down. Either a really bad cold or the flu.”
After this year’s series ended in March, Matt believes he contracted coronavirus. He says he initially put his “flu-like” symptoms down to his usual “post-show” sickness.
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