heat catches up with the celebs at the TV Choice Awards
…But he and his wife aren’t worried about the Strictly Curse
Strictly’s only been back a week, but we’ve already developed a huge crush on one of the celebs – step forward, Charles Venn. The Casualty actor impressed us with his good looks and smooth dance moves at the launch, and when we caught up with him at the TV Choice Awards, we did fan girl over his charms, tbh. The 45 year old has been partnered with newly single Karen Clifton, but he isn’t worried about the Strictly curse as he’s a happily married man... How have the first few days of rehearsals gone? Tough, arduous and culture shocking, but it’s all about the challenge. I’m using my muscles in a very different way, so my body’s saying, “What in the world is this?” My calves are screaming! All of a sudden, when you do something different, your body is like, “Huh? OK!” But I feel my body will reinforce itself, fortify itself, and come back stronger. Karen’s a great teacher. Is she strict? Very much so, but she’s able to balance that with a good sense of humour, which helps. She is definitely a disciplinarian. Absolutely. But I’m enjoying the process, as painful as it is. It’s really enlightening. Were you genuinely pleased with your partner? Didn’t I look like I was pleased? How could I not be! Karen is a delectable, wonderful and beautiful lady, so it’s easy. We have really great chemistry and I’m looking forward to our first dance. I think chemistry is very important if you want to do well in the show. Do you go out after training for drinks and dinner? Not yet, she’s very business-like. I’m more focused on the work, that’s my priority. What does your wife think of you doing the show? She’s excited! She’s absolutely loving it. She’s actually been helping with some of the steps, and she’s got a few moves. She’s not worried about the Strictly curse, is she? That’s all mumbo jumbo – we find it quite funny. But no, my wife is looking forward to it. I’m hoping I can go as far as possible. How’s everyone getting on behind the scenes? Very well – it’s beautifully communal. Everyone has each other’s backs. We’re just wishing the best for each other – but obviously not too much! Are you in it to win it? I’m in it to go as far as I can, and if that means winning it, then yes, I guess I am looking to get to the end. Are we going to see you taking your shirt off? You’ll have to tune in and see!