Dancing on Ice judge Jason Gardiner’s job is in danger after 2000 people complained about his ‘bullying’ comments towards coach Karen Barber.
The ‘Mr Nasty’ judge, 45, mocked the coach for being taken off the judging panel, leaving her in tears and sparking a barrage of complaints to broadcast watchdog Ofcom.
Karen, 49, criticised Jason during Sunday night’s show for giving war hero Johnson Beharry a low score, to which he replied: “If your opinions mattered, you’d still be on the panel.”
Outraged viewers flooded ITV and Ofcom with over 2000 complaints, and a Facebook page and online petition calling for his removal from the show were set up.
John Rushton, from Huddersfield, said: “His argument with Karen Barber was abusive and should be classed as bullying – this programme is watched by children of all ages.”
Carol Chuck added: “Jason’s nasty and vile remarks have gone too far now. He should be removed from the judging panel and Karen should be put back on to it.”
An ITV source told the Daily Mail that Jason had been given a warning by producers about his behaviour.
They explained: “The producers of Dancing on Ice have made it clear to Jason that this type of comment is unacceptable.
“Jason is sorry for his behaviour and any offence caused to Karen.”
Last year Jason was forced to apologise to swimmer Sharron Davies after he compared her to “faecal matter.”