Dancing On Ice viewers defend Gemma Collins following nasty online abuse

Dancing On Ice is back and it's fair to say that one contestant has already stolen the show.

The annual ice skating extravaganza returned to ITV last night and all eyes were on TOWIE's Gemma Collins, who was partnered with professional Matt Evers. The GC took the ice by storm, gliding out in a blaze of pure confidence. Her routine to Beyoncé's 'Crazy In Love' included a few slip-ups but also saw Gem do the *actual* splits; automatically making her more flexible than most of us will ever be. Gemma's performance ended up scoring 16 out of 40 with the judges and had everyone talking online.

She came. She saw. She did the splits! Super fun stuff from @missgemcollins ?#DancingOnIce @dancingonice pic.twitter.com/FNcMITXyiq

— ITV (@ITV) January 6, 2019

There was (legitimate) criticism of the star's skill and even questions over her right to be called a celebrity - but a number of trolls took the opportunity to get cheap digs in over her appearance. Many viewers called out the bullies and defended Gemma for taking part.

The things people are saying about Gemma Collins are absolutely vile. Piss off with your school playground bullying. No wonder females have so many insecurities. So proud of you @missgemcollins #DancingOnIce⁠ ⁠

— Jordan Coombe (@Jordan_Coombe) January 6, 2019

Sad that people have to make derogatory comments about Gemma Collins when she’s been brave enough to do it on behalf of bigger sized ladies. Just shut up and let her be #GoGirl #DancingOnIce⁠ ⁠ #ShittyTrolls ????

— Shiv ❤️ (@AriesShiv_xx) January 6, 2019

I wish I had even a fraction of Gemma’s confidence #DancingOnIce pic.twitter.com/svhvAreAnP

— Hannah (@HannahLiz73) January 6, 2019

So many vile, horrible and degrading tweets about Gemma Collins on here already. You really need to re-evaluate your life if your sat on your arse in front of the telly and bashing disgusting words on your phone about another human being?? Good for her!?? #DancingOnIce

— georgia mccarthy? (@geo_mccarthy) January 6, 2019

Not really a fan of Gemma’s but fair play to her! ?? as a bigger woman myself, there’s no way I could put myself out there like she has! Whatever you think of her, at least she had the guts to do this. Leave the woman alone. Nothing nice to say? Say nothing at all #DancingOnIce

— Ellie Brown (@misselliedbrown) January 6, 2019

Gemma managed to survive to skate again next week - but somehow didn't believe it, even when her name was called.

That moment when you find out you're safe, but somehow actually don't realise ?#DancingOnIce @dancingonice @missgemcollins pic.twitter.com/NACsqrPsuB

— ITV (@ITV) January 6, 2019

We're delighted she's through and looking forward to seeing take to the ice again.