Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Lauren Goodger from The Only Way Is Essex became the second celebrity to be eliminated from Dancing on Ice.
The 26-year-old was axed from the ITV competition after losing a dance-off against television presenter Anthea Turner.
Goodger and her professional partner Michael Zenezini danced to Rescue Me by Fontella Bass, but sharp-tongued judge Jason Gardiner said: "One of you was elegant, beautiful and committed. The other one - the only way is through the back door. I'm saving Anthea."
After being axed from the show last night, Goodger said: "Obviously I'm gutted, but I'm ok. I've enjoyed it. I've met some amazing people that I'm always going to keep friends with now. It's been a great experience and I've had fun."
She was second from bottom following the judges' votes, and was forced to take part in the "safety skate" once the public votes were added.
Gardiner had earlier said the beginning of her first routine had "all the sensuality of a walrus on ice".
Head judge Robin Cousins was more sympathetic, telling her: "You have to be more confident in your own abilities and not necessarily just rely on Michael. I felt you did what you had to do, it was adequate, but you need to own it."
Goodger, whose hands were shaking after her opening performance, said: "It's completely new to me and I'm trying the best I can."
Ex-Welsh rugby player Gareth Thomas topped the judges' leaderboard after dancing to Killers' track All These Things That I've Done with partner Robin Johnstone.
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Judge Karen Barber commented: "It was a very powerful track and you performed it powerfully. The skating content was fantastic."
Gardiner added: "I have to say it wasn't a bad opening. I was expecting you to be a disaster, really, given that you're a rugby player.
"What I did get was somebody that was moving very confidently on the ice. You actually had really good speed."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments