As Dancing on Ice slides back onto our screens on Sunday, historical research defies the bookmakers’ predictions, finding that actor Jason Donovan has the best chances of winning the final skate off – not current favourite, Faye Brookes.
The study from Bet O’Clock analysed the characteristics of every winner of the show and reveals that actors have historically performed best on the ice, boasting six previous winners from a possible 11, including Gaynor Faye, Hayley Tamaddon and most recently, Joe Swash.
Other successful professions include singers and sportspeople, both with two previous wins each.
Considering the historical data from the show, the former Neighbours and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat star is the most likely to dazzle the judges this year. As well as matching the winning profession, Donovan is also the right gender – with male contestants winning seven out of the 11 previous Dancing on Ice trophies (a 64% win-rate).
The only characteristic letting the Australian down is his age – at 52, he would be the oldest winner ever by 11 years, with the typical victor aged just 31.
But tipping the balance back in Donovan’s favour is the fact he’s paired with Alexandra Schauman. The Finnish figure skater has won the last two series with her partners Jake Quickenden and Joe Swash.
Rufus Hound and Sonny Jay may be perpetually left out in the cold this year, with comedians and presenters historically not performing well on the ITV show, having yet to claim a title.
A spokesperson for Bet O’Clock said: “Historical research has shown that gender and profession can really influence performance, so male actors are the clear front runners when it comes to competing for this year’s Dancing on Ice crown.
“Before placing a bet ahead of this year’s show, bear in mind the historical data, despite what the bookmakers are predicting. Actress Faye Brookes is the favourite at 7/2 but our data might prove otherwise.”
The 12 celebrity skaters taking part in this year’s series, starting on Sunday 17 th January, are: Billie Shepherd, Colin Jackson, Denise van Outen, Faye Brookes, Graham Bell, Jason Donovan, Joe-Warren Plant, Lady Leshurr, Myleene Klass, Rebekah Vardy, Rufus Hound and Sonny Jay.
