Dancing on Ice: Who is Matt Richardson?

Matt Richardson is being lined up to replace Rufus Hound on Dancing on Ice

(Image credit: Getty)

By Georgia Farquharson 2021-01-31T09:23:54Z

Matt Richardson could be set to join Dancing on Ice, after bosses reportedly line him up as a replacement for Rufus Hound.

Rufus, also a comedian, made his debut on the ITV show two weeks ago, but has since found himself under fire after a string of controversial tweets emerged.

Not only have the tweets upset viewers, Rufus' professional ice partner, Robin Johnstone, is said to have not taken lightly to the un-earthed tweets.

To make matters worse, Rufus was forced to miss last Sunday's show and this week too, after coming into contact with someone who had tested positive for covid-19. He described his case of covid as "mild".

Bosses are said to be "panicking" and are considering drafting in radio star Matt to replace him.

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Who is Matt Richardson?

Matt Richardson is an comedian and broadcaster, best known for presenting ITV2's The Xtra Factor with the late Caroline Flack in 2013.

He went on to become a radio presenter on digital radio station, Virgin Radio UK, before leaving the station in 2019.

Matt, 29, now co-hosts a podcast, When No One's Watching with Emma Willis' husband, Matt Willis.

He could be set to make his big break if he joins the Dancing on Ice line-up.

Rufus Hound on Dancing on Ice — Rufus Hound's professional partner is said to be upset over the unearthed tweets

According to The Sun, an insider revealed, “Bosses are panicking that Rufus is bad for the show and his comments have upset Robin and some of the other pros.

“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.”

After finding himself in hot water over the tweets, Rufus branded them "stupid and hurtful".

He said, "If anything I've said or tweeted in the past was stupid or hurtful, it's because I can be stupid."

Despite reports that the team are looking to replace Rufus, an ITV spokesperson said, "We are hoping to welcome him back to the ice soon."

It's been a busy week for Dancing on Ice bosses after not one, but two contestants dropped out of the show for personal reasons.

Denise Van Outen was forced to quit following a shoulder injury and Billie Faiers revealed she'd miss this weekend's show after the sudden death of her grandmother.