British skating icons Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean are poised to receive the highest honours, with reports suggesting they will be made a dame and knight in the King's forthcoming New Year Honours list.
From Olympic Glory to Royal Recognition
According to a report by The Sun, the duo, who famously won Olympic gold in 1984 with their legendary Bolero routine in Sarajevo, are finally in line for the prestigious titles. This recognition comes after previous petitions for their knighthood and damehood were rejected in 2023.
Torvill and Dean, who have been appointed MBE and OBE in 1981 and 2000 respectively, have been celebrated figures for decades. Their partnership began in 1975 when coach Janet Sawbridge paired them together. After switching to coach Betty Callaway in 1979, they made their Olympic debut at Lake Placid in 1980, finishing fifth.
A Career Defined by Gold
Following the 1980 Games, both made significant sacrifices to focus on skating full-time. Jayne left her job as an insurance clerk, while Christopher resigned from the police force. Their dedication paid off spectacularly.
Until the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics, the pair never placed lower than first in any competition, a staggering record of dominance. In Norway, they added a bronze medal to their collection. Although they initially retired in 1998, they returned to the public eye as judges and mentors on ITV's hit show Dancing on Ice from 2006.
Retirement from Skating, Not from the Spotlight
Earlier this year, the pair confirmed their retirement from professional skating after a final UK tour in 2025. They made the announcement in Sarajevo, the city of their greatest triumph. Christopher, 65, stated, "It's been 50 years and the body won't allow us to keep doing it too much."
However, they were quick to clarify that this step back is from the ice only. In a joint statement, they confirmed they have 'no plans' to leave Dancing on Ice, where they continue to serve as judges alongside Ashley Banjo and Oti Mabuse. "We hope that the series continues for years to come," they added.
If the honours are confirmed, it will be a fitting royal accolade for two individuals who have not only achieved sporting perfection but have also captivated the nation for nearly half a century, both on and off the ice.
