Published Friday, 18 November 2011
The seventh series of the show kicks off in January with a brand new line-up of celebrity skaters.
Bleakley, who joined ITV in 2010, said she was a "total Dancing on Ice addict".
She said: "My only concern was what a big task it is to follow the brilliant Holly and I can only promise her, Phillip and everyone at home that they couldn't have a bigger fan of the show on board."
Phillip Schofield said: "I'm absolutely delighted that Christine is on board and I'm really excited about the new series."
The pair will also co-host the Christmas entertainment and charity event, Text Santa, in December.
Willoughby wished her successor "good luck".
Writing on her Twitter account, she said: "It's a truly magical show and you will love it. I'll miss you all very much!"
An ITV statement said the presenter, who will continue to present This Morning and Celebrity Juice, "has other commitments over the winter season".
ITV Director of Television, Peter Fincham said: "Dancing on Ice continues to be one of ITV1's most successful entertainment hits and I'm delighted that Christine will be joining Phillip Schofield to host next year's show."
The preview series averaged nine million viewers across its 12 week run in the winter of 2011, with the most watched show attracting a peak of over 11 million viewers.