ITV Dancing On Ice's Vanessa Bauer addresses surprise return after exit as fans confused
Dancing On Ice's Vanessa Bauer has addressed her appearance on Sunday's episode after she pulled out of the show with injury. The professional has been replaced by Robin Johnstone, who will partner Love Island's Chris Taylor for the rest of the contest.
Vanessa confirmed her exit from this season in a statement issued on Sunday. She said: "I'm here today with rather upsetting news. I am unfortunately not going to be able to continue on Dancing on Ice with Chris. That's really upsetting for me.
"I have trained Chris since October last year and it is always such an amazing achievement for myself to see someone else progress so much in a skill they've never done before. So it's been really rewarding for me to watch this whole journey for Chris [and] the way he's got better week since October and also since the live shows started."
READ MORE: Ryanair 'fare hike' warning to holidaymakers jetting off to Spain as flights cut
READ MORE: Drivers warned they could face £5,000 fine over romantic gestures
However, some viewers on social media platform were confused when they spotted Vanessa's surprise return to the show during the professional group dance on the latest episode. An X user named Jamie said: "Was Vanessa just in the professional dance? Is she better now?"
However, the dance was pre-recorded as viewers noticed the live tag in the top right corner disappeared during the routine. Vanessa has taken to Instagram today to set the record straight on the appearance.
Although it was pre-recorded, she confirmed it was recorded after her injury. She said: "Fun fact, we recorded this straightaway after I tore my ligaments on the day of the show last week.
"I think a lot of athletes are trained to fight through any pain and this mindset is surely embodied in myself. However, this is old school and tuning into your body to voice your concerns before anything gets worse is not a sign of weakness but of maturity and self respect. Certainly in cases like this where the long term consequences can often be worse.
"Health is wealth. On another note I loved learning and performing this with @slongchambon @tippyroo_2the_rescue @colin_grafton @vickyogden and @brendynhatfield thank you so much @markhanretty"
People took to the comments to wish Vanessa well in her recovery. @_vanessadoi_ said: "Its so sad to know you was probably in so much pain doing that but you still went out on the ice and performed to the best of your ability"
Terry added: "Safe and speedy recovery. You will be missed on the ice." Elaine commented: "This was so beautiful. Will miss you on the show. Wishing you a speedy recovery...look after yourself"
Elaine commented: "This was a gorgeous routine. Shame it's your last one this season. I absolutely love your partnership with Sylvain." Anne added: "So sorry you are injured @vanessabauer_skates look after yourself & get better soon. Gorgeous choreography by Mark x"