RUFUS Hound has been booted out of Dancing on Ice after testing positive for coronavirus.
The comedian, 41, has already missed two weeks of the show after being told he must self isolate after getting a Test and Trace notification.
He subsequently tested positive for Covid-19 meaning he had to stay at home by law.
But having completed his period of quarantine, he has tested positive again meaning ITV producers have told him he must leave the competition.
Hound will now be replaced on Dancing on Ice by former Xtra Factor presenter and fellow comedian Matt Richardson who will skate with Vicky Ogden.
It comes after HOAR told how bosses had changed rules meaning as of Monday a positive diagnosis meant celebrities or skaters were out.
Insiders say those affected would not be qualified to safely skate having missed up to two weeks of training.
Previously, celebs would have been allowed a bye but only for one week.
Rufus confirmed the news, tweeting: “I will no longer be participating in @dancingonice.
“COVID is – as I’m sure we’re all well aware – a b*****d and sadly the world isn’t short of those.”
He posted a video explaining: “I will no longer be participating on Dancing On Ice.
“Having come into contact with someone with Covid and isolating, it transpired that I myself have Covid.
“Unfortunately the rules on Dancing On Ice are completely cut and dry – very strict because they need to keep everybody on that production as safe as possible.
“It seemed when I was just quarantining there might be a window of opportunity to get back on the show, a window I now know doesn’t exist.”
He added: “That sucks. It sucks because I got to spend a big chunk of the last six months with Robin Johnstone, a brilliant ice dance teacher and human sunshine.”
An ITV spokesperson confirmed: “Following a positive test result, Rufus Hound is unable to return to Dancing On Ice this weekend.
“Although Rufus and his partner Robin’s time on the ice has been all too brief, they can be truly proud of their achievements.
“We thank them for all their hard work and commitment to the show.”
