Dancing On Ice star Billie Shepherd is taking a break from the series following a death in her family.

Billie – best known for appearing alongside sister Sam Faiers in The Only Way Is Essex and The Mummy Diaries – will be absent from this week’s live show, due to a personal bereavement.

The reality star performed live with professional partner Mark Hanretty for the first time last week, with the pair avoiding the skate-off and earning a place in this week’s musical theatre-inspired live show.

However, while Billie and Mark will be absent from the ice on Sunday night, they are expected to return next week.

A spokesperson told Metro: “Sadly due to a family bereavement this week Billie Shepherd is taking a break from the ice and won’t be on Sunday’s show.

“We look forward to her returning next week and send her all of our love at this sad time.”

Comedian Rufus Hound missed out on performing in a group number last week, as he was required to self-isolate after coming into contact with someone who had tested positive for Covid-19.

It’s also been revealed that Denise Van Outen will not be continuing in the show, after fracturing her shoulder when she fell on the ice during training.

She’ll be replaced by Olympic gymnast Amy Tinkler, who has been rehearsing in private in the event that one of this year’s contestants was required to leave the show early.

Dancing On Ice continues on Sunday night at 6pm on ITV.