ITV Dancing On Ice star Sean Rice has died at just the age of 49.
The professional ice skater, who appeared on Dancing On Ice in 2011 and 2012, passed away on January 14, according to friends.
Frankie Poultney, who is a fellow skater and close friend of Sean, shared the sad news on Twitter, the Mirror reports.
Frankie wrote: "Pro skaters are heartbroken today, we lost a true larger than life great - an epic skater, a husband, father, and my friend of 20 years.
"Sean Rice, 20/07/72 - 14/01/22 gone too soon, but we will Love You For A Thousand Years. All of our thoughts are with Signey and Jodeyne."
A spokesperson for Dancing On Ice said: "We are all deeply saddened to hear this news. Sean was a wonderful skater and friend to many on the Dancing On Ice team. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time."
In the two years that Sean was a pro skater on the ITV show, Sean danced with former newsreader Angela Rippon in 2011 and then a year later with Alpine ski racer, Chemmy Alcott.
Chemmy paid tribute to Sean with a sweet message on Twitter: "Have just heard the tragic news that Sean Rice, my partner from DOI, has passed away.
"The world will miss your amazing energy and your healing hands. All my love to J and S."
Sean leaves behind his wife Jodeyne Higgins and their daughter Signey.
Friends of Sean and fellow stars from Dancing On Ice have paid tribute to the pro skater.
Matt Evers, who is partnering Coronation Street star Sally Dynevor in this year's series, paid tribute to Sean by sharing a number they did on the show together and writing: "One of the best... thank you Sean for your gift.
"This routine from The Professionals on Ice was incredible. It was a pleasure to know and work with you."
Sean's friend Frankie has also shared details of a GoFundMe page which was launched in the wake of the sad news of Sean's death.
Organiser named Mary White wrote on the fundraising page: "The world has lost a great man - a coach, son, friend, husband and poppa bear. It's with immense sadness to say that Sean Rice has passed away.
"Sean was a passionate, larger than life man who would stop and give to anyone who needed him. It's with that same spirit, we are reaching out to everyone to pour prayers and love over Jodeyne and Signey during this very difficult time.
"So many people have reached out asking how they can help and so we have set up this Go Fund account to support Jodeyne and Signey at this time. Let's take care of them the same way Sean always took care of others."
To sign up for the Nottinghamshire Live newsletter click here
