Pamela Anderson's participation on Dancing on Ice was touted as one of the highlights of the hit reality show, but sadly, fans of the Baywatch legend won't get a chance to see her skills develop much further. The Hollywood star became the first celebrity to be axed from the contest after losing a dance-off against television funnyman Keith Chegwin, she also suffered a wardrobe malfunction on her way to the changing rooms.
Following the skate-off, judges unanimously voted to axe the Canadian-born actress, who danced to Sinead O'Connor's cover of Elton John's Sacrifice. Speaking after her action-packed night, the stunned star said she was sad to have been knocked out. She did, however, try to take her exit with a pinch of salt, adding: "it happens". The blonde later acknowledged all the support she had received from her fan base on Twitter, writing: "Thanks for everything. Sorry I was voted off... My dress fell apart in save-me skate. Devastated".
Pamela wasn't the only contestant feeling the strain. Coronation Street star Samia Ghadie kicked off the new series admitting she felt added pressure and worry because of speculation over her relationship with dance partner Sylvain Longchambon. The couple became close after they trained together for the show, but controversy surrounded their fledgling relationship after it was revealed Sylvian's relationship with long-term girlfriend Jennifer Metcalfe – whom he also met on Dancing on Ice two years ago – had broken down. Speaking after their first dance, Samia told presenter Phillip Schofield: "Obviously with all the unwanted press attention it has been difficult this week but out there tonight I put the fallout to one side and didn't let it affect my skating. So regardless of that, that was the best that I can do anyway."
The brunette and her new beau were given support by sharp-tongued judge Jason Gardiner. He gave them a score of just 3.5 – the lowest of all the judges – but said they had great potential. He added: "I know you are having a problem with the chemistry - don't shy away from that, ignore what everybody is saying but show us that there is a strong partnership here and develop it. "The remaining six contestants - Lauren Goodger from The Only Way Is Essex, Olympic boxing gold medallist Luke Campbell, television presenter Anthea Turner, comedian Joe Pasquale, ex Welsh rugby player Gareth Thomas and former MP Oona King - will take their first turn on the ice next week.
