**Dancing On Ice’s Brendyn Hatfield Faces Surgery Following Prolonged Health Struggles**
Brendyn Hatfield, a well-known professional skater from ITV’s Dancing On Ice, has recently disclosed details of his ongoing health challenges which have culminated in him needing surgery. Hatfield, who first appeared on the skating competition in 2019, has charmed fans with his performances, but the past year has seen him privately grappling with unexpected and severe health issues.
The ice dancer took to social media to share his experience, explaining that he had developed sudden and persistent asthmatic symptoms. These breathing difficulties came as a shock, having never suffered from such problems before. In a candid video, he initially attempted to keep spirits light with a comedic impression, but quickly switched gears, telling followers: “It’s a big day tomorrow. Going in for a little bit of surgery. Everyone close to me knows what’s going on.”
According to Hatfield, the onset of asthma attacks was both distressing and bewildering. Over the last 18 months, he has found himself in accident and emergency departments on numerous occasions, as his condition would often deteriorate rapidly. “Never dealt with it my whole life. Like breathing – it’s been really hard,” he recounted, clearly troubled by the dramatic turn his health had taken.
Medical investigations eventually revealed that Hatfield was also suffering from multiple sinus issues, which doctors believed could be contributing to his respiratory distress. Surgery was recommended as the best course of action to grant him some relief and improve his quality of life. However, Brendyn’s pursuit of treatment was not without its challenges. He revealed that due to a “clerical error,” he had been prematurely discharged from NHS care in October last year, which left him facing a wait until December 2025 for his rescheduled surgery.
Frustrated by the lengthy delay, the Dancing On Ice star admitted: “I can’t live like this anymore.” Hatfield also highlighted the financial ramifications of arranging the procedure without immediate NHS support, acknowledging that the forthcoming surgery would carry significant private costs. Despite these obstacles, he remained optimistic, reassuring fans: “I’m excited to get it done… everything works out in the end and you just keep going, you know?”
Hatfield’s struggle comes at a pivotal moment in his career, as he prepares to depart the popular television show. After entertaining audiences for five series, he had already confirmed he would not be returning for the 2025 run, making the need to focus on his health all the more significant. ITV, meanwhile, has recently announced that Dancing On Ice will “be rested in 2026” with no further series currently planned.
Support has poured in from friends and colleagues during this difficult spell. Rachel Stevens, Brendyn’s partner and a member of pop group S Club 7, paid tribute to him on his 40th birthday, referring to him affectionately as her “soulmate” in a heartfelt social media post. Her words underscore the strength of their bond amid the current uncertainty.
Brendyn’s openness about his health ordeal has resonated with the public, a reminder that even stars are not immune to sudden and disruptive changes in their lives. His story highlights the challenges many face navigating the healthcare system, especially when administrative errors or waiting lists disrupt timely treatment.
As the skating community and his fans await further updates, Brendyn Hatfield’s determination to remain positive in the face of adversity stands as a source of inspiration. The hope is that this next chapter—beginning with a successful operation—will allow him to return to better health and perhaps, in time, to the ice which has brought so much joy to viewers around the country.