Christopher Dean was visibly moved during Sunday's as he paid an emotional tribute to fellow skaters who perished in the devastating DC plane crash.

The ITV show, hosted by Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern, featured performances from celebrities like Sir Steve Redgrave, Sam Aston, and Charlie Brooks.

However, the mood turned sombre when the programme honoured those from the skating community who tragically died in the collision between an American Airlines jet and a Black Hawk helicopter at Washington Reagan National Airport. Over 50 individuals are believed to have lost their lives in the accident that occurred early Thursday morning (January 30).

Holly addressed the tragedy, saying: "Before we move on, we are were all absolutely horrified by the tragic plane crash last week in Washington."

She continued, acknowledging the loss within the skating world and turning to Chris, she added: "Chris we just wanted to speak to you because it's incredibly sad."

An emotional Chris responded: "It is, 17 members of the skating commonly lost their lives and it's felt all around the work and certainly we, and all of our Dancing on Ice family, want to send our sincere condolences to all the family and friends of the loved ones that they lost.", reports Lancs Live.

Struggling with his emotions, he said: "Our thoughts," before pausing, overcome with emotion, and then concluding: "Our thoughts are with everyone."

The Skating Club of Boston is mourning the tragic loss of young members following a devastating crash as they returned from a camp for up-and-coming skaters.

Doug Zeghibe, executive of the club, shared a heartfelt statement last week: "Skating is a very close and tight-knit community... I think for all of us, we have lost family."

In related news, Vanessa Bauer was compelled to withdraw from the skating competition after sustaining an injury in practice.

Initially teamed with Love Island's Chris Taylor, her unforeseen departure has led to Robin Johnstone stepping in as his new professional partner on the ice.

Dancing on Ice is on ITV1 Sundays and on ITVX