With nerves rising and the stakes high, whats it really like to be dancing in front of millions on the biggest show on Saturday night TV? Hayley Minn finds out as she speaks to this years glamorous Strictly Come Dancing stars
LEE RYAN, 35, lives in London. He is currently single and has two children, Bluebell and Rayn, from previous relationships. His dance partner is Nadiya Bychkova.
“Pre-show, I burn some incense and meditate to centre myself”
STRICTLY STRUGGLE? Being tired. But on the plus side, I’ve quit drinking – it’s a good excuse to!
AND STRENGTH? I’m a passionate person and I don’t do anything by halves, so if I’m going to do something, I’ll go for it. I don’t know about the steps, but I’m giving it my all.
ANY SURPRISES? The schedule. It’s insane. I don’t know how anyone can do another job at the same time. When Simon [Webbe] did it, he was also touring with Blue. I loved EastEnders, but I’m glad I’m not doing it now.
PRE-SHOW CONFIDENCE TRICK? I try to meditate. I used to do this before I’d have big scenes on EastEnders just to centre myself. I get some incense sticks burning and put peaceful music on.
STRICTLY STYLE? I love the glitz and glam of this show.
NADIYA’S TEACHING STYLE? Nadiya is amazing, she’s started making me do planks, burpees and push-ups. She’s very good for me. She’s really encouraged me to do better and to cut down on drinking.
THE JUDGE YOU’D LIKE A 10 FROM? All of them!
NIGHTS OUT WITH NADIYA? She’s a family person like me – she has a child, and I’ve got kids, so we can relate to each other. A night out with Nadiya would involve going to the theatre or a meal, something very civilised. What has happened to me?
This story is from the December 2018 edition of Woman & Home.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2018 edition of Woman & Home.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
LOVE is LOVE? It's different for everyone
As a gay parent, Lotte Jeffs is simply encouraging her five-year-old daughter to follow her heart
BANK HOLIDAY BAKES
Showstopping sweet treats the whole family will love
I worry about my BROTHER'S FUTURE'
Author Claire McGowan on growing up with her disabled brother, David
Your GREEK ISLAND GUIDE
Find the perfect Hellenic summer getaway with our round-up of sun-soaked isles
Your SPRING CLEAN GUIDE
Make your home shine this season with clever tricks that are better for the planet
HOW OLD is your BODY?
Whatever decade you're in, find out if you're as fit and healthy as you could be
Simple SELF HYPNOSIS for success
Stuck in a rut? Learn the mindset secrets that could help you live your best life
Do you need to use AZELAIC ACID?
Heard the hype about this new wonder ingredient? Sarah CooperWhite finds out why you might need it in your regime
Is politeness DEAD?
Certainly not... manners cost nothing, says leading etiquette coach William Hanson
Finding my LONG-LOST SON
Last year, author Lesley Pearse wrote in w&h about tracking down her mother’s family. Now that moment has led to another wonderful reunion