Carol McGiffin: The Way I See It
‘So the suspense (what suspense?) is over. The Strictly line-up is out and, well, it’s not exactly A-list. The reason (excuse) for this is reportedly because of the ‘ Strictly Curse’, after another marriage – Louise and Jamie Redknapp’s – broke down, apparently because of it.
Even if there really is such a thing, I doubt that’s the reason for the lack of A-listers. It’s more likely to be because it’s too much bloody hard work and the BBC doesn’t pay enough for it, and that’s probably because it can’t afford to, what with Chris Evans and Gary Lineker still hoovering up their millions.
I would never do it and, yes, I have been approached in the past. I say I ‘would’ never, but I actually mean I ‘could’ never because a) I don’t have the stamina, b) I’m just not competitive
enough, and c) the nerves and the stress would kill me. On top of that, the make-up and costumes would definitely have people mistaking me for a drag act. Plus I couldn’t handle the blisters, I have a bunion, and I’m just not desperate enough to be on TV. Also, I dance like a dad and I can’t learn because I have no coordination or rhythm.
So once again, I’ll happily sit back and watch, taking my hat off to all the contestants who are brave enough to take it on, especially my mate Ruth Langsford, who I’ll be betting on, cheering on and voting for every step of the way!’