Dancing on Ice Rejection: Former Strictly Star's Safety Concerns

JJ Chalmers, a former *Strictly Come Dancing

star and Invictus Games medallist, has revealed that he was forced to turn down an offer to appear on *Dancing on Ice* due to concerns about his safety.

The TV presenter, who wowed audiences on the BBC dancefloor in 2020, sustained a disability in 2011 after a bomb blast in Afghanistan, which resulted in the loss of two fingers and a disintegrated elbow.

Speaking exclusively to *The Sun*, Chalmers explained that his surgeon advised against participating in the ITV skating show, despite him being approached to take part in previous years. He said: "I've had the call from *Dancing on Ice

a few years ago and, obviously, with the disability that I carry, I remember phoning my surgeon about doing *Strictly*."

"She said, 'yeah, yeah, I reckon we can figure that one out,' but for the *Dancing on Ice

call, it was a 'no'. So, I've had to say no to that one as I'm fragile!"

Chalmers' decision highlights the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in competitive physical activities. However, there have been notable examples of stars with disabilities excelling on *Dancing on Ice*, including blind Paralympian Libby Clegg, who reached the final, and Heather Mills, who has one leg amputated.

Despite turning down *Dancing on Ice*, Chalmers remains committed to pushing his boundaries. He revealed the real reason he accepted the *Strictly Come Dancing

offer in 2020: "I've been offered many reality shows but the reason I decided to do *Strictly* was to push me out of my comfort zone in a big way. Also, you learn a skill! There are other reality shows out there where you wouldn't necessarily learn something."

He continued: "If somebody says to you 'do you wanna learn to be a dancer from one of the best dancers in the world', why would you say no to that?"

Chalmers, who is part of Channel 4's presenting team for the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris, demonstrated his dedication to challenging himself and embracing new experiences. He added: "So if someone else came along with a reality show about trying to learn something new and it really challenges you and you can walk away going 'I gave it my best shot', that's what I am kind of about."

Despite his *Dancing on Ice

rejection, Chalmers remains a popular figure in the entertainment world, having recently featured on *The One Show* and *Sunday Brunch*. He continues to inspire with his resilience and dedication to pushing boundaries, making him a positive role model for those with disabilities.