'Dancing on Ice' is reportedly set to make a shock return to TV.

Holly Willoughby

Holly Willoughby

The ITV programme - which saw celebrities learn to figure skate - was once among the most-watched shows in the UK and it is rumoured to be on channel boss Kevin Lygo's hitlist for the year.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Kevin always thought ITV axing 'Dancing on Ice' was a mistake so now the idea of bringing it back is being looked at.

"It was a smash hit, and even at its worst was still pulling in more than some of the shows currently on telly - particularly in the Sunday night slot.

"It's very early days and nothing has been commissioned just yet but it's definitely on the to-do list. A Sunday night slot would make a lot of sense."

At the peak of its popularity, 'Dancing on Ice' - which was originally hosted by Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby - attracted 13 million viewers.

But its audience dwindled over time and it was scrapped altogether in 2014.

However, Kevin - who was appointed as ITV's Director of Television earlier this year - claimed in 2016 that the broadcaster had made a mistaken in taking the programme off the air.

He previously said: "I think when 'Dancing On Ice' was cut, it was felt, 'oh we need to refresh, it's gone down a bit in the ratings'.

"I watched it, it was the most lovely family show and a really good feeling and distinctive and brilliantly produced, and actually I wish it had gone on a bit longer."

'Dancing on Ice' could reportedly replace 'Dance Dance Dance', which is presented by Alesha Dixon.

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