‘KEVIN HAS A WICKED SENSE OF HUMOUR’

After making it to the final with Giovanni Pernice in 2017, Debbie Mcgee, 61, says she feels “so lucky” to be back for the Christmas special. This time, she’s partnered with reigning champion Kevin Clifton…

Hi Debbie! What are you most looking forward to about your return to Strictly?

Every single bit of it! I loved the whole experience. I was so lucky to do it in the first place, but to be doing it again is great.

Have you kept up with ballroom dancing?

A little bit. I’ve mainly kept myself fit by doing yoga and Pilates, but now that I’m back in training again, I’m going to find somewhere locally and keep it up in the new year.

How’s the training?

Fantastic. I’ve had a great time. When I start to dance, something inside me switches on.

How does Kevin differ to Giovanni as a teacher?

Giovanni trained me for months, whereas Kevin has just a few days. But there isn’t much difference because they’ve both got a wicked sense of humour. We laugh a lot, but we work really hard.

Are you still close to Giovanni?

We keep in contact all the time. I messaged him every week when he was on Strictly and told him what I thought of his dances. We’ve never lost touch.

Have you met his girlfriend, Ashley Roberts?

I have and she’s absolutely lovely. I loved watching her when she was on the show.

Who is your biggest competition?

All of them because it’s not just about the dancing, it’s about who the people like.

Joe [Sugg] and Dianne [Buswell] have got a huge following on social media and so does Gemma.

What do you think about Gemma and Joe dancing with their real-life partners?

I think people will like that because it gives it another dimension.

What are your plans for Christmas this year?

I’m doing panto, so I’m going to be a busy girl. But I always spend Christmas Day with my family – we love everything about it. We love the food and playing games in the afternoon.

Do you have any traditions?

We have whisky porridge for breakfast.

How do you remember your late husband Paul Daniels on the day?

I imagine he’s still here on Christmas. He loved it. I was so very lucky to have had him in my life.

What’s on your wish list this year?

Stationery. I like writing and I do calligraphy so I like getting nice paper.