Strictly Come Dancing Winner Chris McCausland Reveals ‘Terrifying’ Show Experience
Chris McCausland, who triumphed in last year’s Strictly Come Dancing, has shared his surprising experience on the popular BBC show. The 48-year-old comedian, notable for being the first blind contestant in the competition, won the prestigious Glitterball Trophy alongside his dance partner, Dianne Buswell.
Understanding Strictly Come Dancing
Before joining the show, Chris had little knowledge of its format. He confessed that “Strictly was not on [his] radar,” adding that participating was both “intense” and “terrifying.” His comments were made during an interview on The Graham Norton Show.
Chris’s Journey on the Show
- Chris McCausland, age 48, is a blind comedian.
- He lost his sight at the age of 22 due to retinitis pigmentosa.
- Dianne Buswell is his dance partner and is expecting her first child with YouTuber Joe Sugg.
- Chris found the experience both challenging and rewarding.
Despite the challenges, Chris noted his experience on Strictly Come Dancing as a significant highlight in his life. He stated, “I couldn’t be prouder” of his journey, which he sees as a positive culmination of his life events—losing his sight, becoming a comedian, and competing on the show.
Insights from Chris’s Autobiography
In his upcoming autobiography, “Keep Laughing,” McCausland discusses the complexities of his experience with blindness. He remarked that losing his sight, initially perceived as the hardest topic to share, turned out to be the most engaging aspect of his narrative.
Encouraging Others with Disabilities
Chris has expressed pride in representing disabled people on mainstream television. He has encouraged others facing physical challenges to recognize that “there are no limits” to what they can achieve. His recent comments in the media showcase his dedication to being a source of inspiration.
The Demands of Dancing
Chris also shared insights into the rigorous physical requirements of Strictly Come Dancing. He described the demanding training schedule, detailing that participants often train for eight hours a day, six days a week. This relentless pace led him to realize the higher risk of injuries on the show.
- Training involves extensive hours: eight hours per day, six days a week.
- The physical challenge can lead to injuries associated with specific dance styles.
- Chris noted that the show’s physical intensity is surprising and poses risks for contestants.
As he reflects on his extraordinary journey, Chris McCausland continues to inspire audiences with his humor and resilience. His story serves as a testament to overcoming obstacles and pursuing passions, regardless of life’s challenges.
