Joe Swash hits out at Dancing on Ice's 'terrible decision' to axe Alex Murphy

Joe Swash has hit out at Dancing on Ice\'s "terrible decision" to axe his winning partner Alex Murphy.

The former \'EastEnders\' star and the pro ice skater triumphed in the 12th series of the show just three months ago, but Alex revealed earlier today (24.06.20) she has been told her contract will not be renewed for next year\'s show, leaving her "bewildered, lost, and devastated".

In response to Alex\'s announcement, Joe wrote: "What is going on!!! Terrible decision (sic)"

The 38-year-old star was not alone in his comment, with even one of the judges, Ashley Banjo, surprised by the decision.

He wrote: "Can\'t believe that... (sic)"

A number of former \'Dancing on Ice\' competitors took to Instagram to convey their shock, with Jane Danson calling the decision "crazy".

The \'Corrie\' actress wrote: "Crazy decision. You are amazing Murph- love ya xx (sic)"

Brooke Vincent shared: "WHATTTTTT (sic)"

James Jordan posted: "Wow! Shocked, hope you are ok (sic)"

Perri Kiely wrote: "No way"

Maura Higgins posted: "So sorry to hear. hope your ok (sic)"

The stars\' surprise comes after Alex announced she had been dropped from \'Dancing on Ice\', and said the decision has left her "broken-hearted".

She wrote: "It is with a heavy heart that I release the following statement:

"For the last three years, Dancing On ice has not only been my job, but also what I considered to be my family.

"I am broken hearted to announced that I have recently been informed that I will not be re-contracted for Dancing On Ice 2021 series.

"This decision has come as a huge shock to me. I absolutely love the show and had hoped to go back for 2021. I have been left feeling bewildered, lost, and devastated.

"I am so grateful for the three years that I had on this incredible show and I will wholeheartedly miss everyone and everything about it.

"Though I am heartbroken, I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, and although this hurts right now, I will pick myself up and look forward towards the future.

"Thank you so much to all my colleagues at DOI and most importantly the viewers for the constant support and love that you have shown me the last 3 years.

"It was an incredibly part of my list and though it is ending sooner than I would have liked, I am so grateful for the memories. (sic)"