Siva Kaneswaran appeared tearful after he was asked to speak about his late bandmate Tom Parker after it was revealed he would be taking part in next year's Dancing On Ice. The Wanted singer’s participation in the ice skating TV competition was announced during Good Morning Britain on Tuesday (October 11).
The Dublin-born star is the 11th and final contestant to be revealed in the line-up for the ITV show which will return to screens with Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield as hosts in January 2023.
Siva joins singer Michelle Heaton, drag queen and TV personality The Vivienne, actress and DJ Patsy Palmer, football’s John Fashanu, Love Island winner Ekin-Su Culculoglu, Olympic gymnast Nile Wilson, Coronation Street’s Mollie Gallagher, The Only Way Is Essex star Joey Essex, comedian Darren Harriott and Hollyoaks star Carley Stenson in the line-up.
But during his big reveal on GMB, Siva was asked by Susanna Reid and Richard Madeley about his recent loss. Siva's fellow The Wanted star and friend Tom died in March aged 33, 17 months after being diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Asked how he is coping, Siva said: "To be honest, just living day by day. Some days it is very difficult but mostly I look back and smile."
His eyes appeared to become glazed with tears as he continued: "He taught me so much about life. He taught me to live life to the fullest and not be afraid. It is one of the reasons why I am doing this show."
Siva also spoke to Parker’s widow Kelsey, adding: "She is doing well. Obviously the same situation. She is staying positive – positive Parkers. But mostly just keeping her chin up and taking it day by day."
The 33-year-old also shared the ongoing influence Tom has had on him, sharing the late singer's own determination and enthusiasm probably lead to him signing up for DOI. "It was just inspiring to watch him, considering all the things he was going through, to show up with a smile on his face," he said.
"He would always make you think about what is happening in the future. Like, ‘When are we doing a tour? When are we doing more music?' He always had a positive attitude towards the future. That is one of the gifts he has given me, I think all of us."
And fans tuning in could see Siva's emotion and offered their support. @MrsGemmaSykes commented: "You can see the tears in his eyes at the end." @_sondos_i commented: "This brought a little tear to my eye @SivaKaneswaran he would be so proud of you. Always about that positive mindset."
@annataft_ shared: "He will be so so proud of you @SivaKaneswaran and will be with you every single skate of the way!!" @shazzamac1973 posted: "Tom will be proud if you @SivaKaneswaran and I'm sure having a wee laugh when you are starting training. Go and smash it for our Tom. Good luck."
READ NEXT:
- Horrified Holly Willoughby tells This Morning viewers 'don't do it' after she was almost tricked by scammer
- The Hairy Bikers' Dave Myers praises friend Si King for his support as he offers cancer update
- BBC Strictly It Takes Two viewers make same observation as Richie Anderson fights tears but 'accepts' exit
- ITV GMB's Kate Garraway candidly tells fans she's been 'depressed' caring for husband amid 'frustrating' reality
- Richard Madeley finally returns to ITV Good Morning Britain after fans' concern
