'Dancing On Ice' judge Christopher Dean hopes Gemma Collins doesn't quit the show and "stays the course".
Karen Barber and Christopher Dean at TOTEM premiere
The 'TOWIE' star has brought drama to the ITV series all week following her decision to leave the live episode last Sunday night (13.01.19) 15 minutes early and further claims she has been a diva backstage.
But Chris, 60, insists he has seen no bad behaviour from Gemma, 37, behind the scenes and he is looking forward to seeing her perform more routines with her partner Matt Evers if she can stick it out.
Speaking to BANG Showbiz at the premiere of Cirque du Soleil's 'TOTEM' show at the Royal Albert Hall in London on Wednesday evening (16.01.19), Chris said: "I just see Gemma on the ice and when she's on the ice it's all good. I hope she doesn't quit, I hope she stays the course. Gemma is a big character ... Gemma's got her own persona that's going on. It's all good, it's entertainment."
And Chris - who skated to the gold medal at the 1984 Winter Olympics with his partner and fellow 'Dancing On Ice' judge Jayne Torvill - is adamant that the antics of The GC is not overshadowing the efforts of the other contestants on the programme.
He added: "I don't think it's overshadowed the skating of the other couples, they're skating speaks for itself."
Chris' opinion of Gemma is echoed by 'Dancing On Ice' coach Karen Barber who has praised her commitment in rehearsals and determination to do well on the ice.
Karen - who is in a relationship with Chris - said: "I my company, as her coach, Gemma has been great. She's really put the work in and has had a great attitude. That's how she's learned to skate because she's put the work in."
The premiere was attended by a host of stars, including their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex who were present raise vital funds and awareness for Prince Harry's charity, Sentebale which helps youth affected by HIV in southern Africa.
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