Katie Piper says she ‘has no rhythm’ after being named as first Strictly star
and campaigner Katie Piper has said she is “really proud” to be taking part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing ten years after being the victim of an acid attack.
The 34-year-old was injured in an assault in March 2008 that was arranged by her former partner.
She was left partially blind, with severe scarring to her face, chest, neck, arm and hands, after sulphuric acid was thrown in her face.
Now a TV presenter, author andcampaignerwhosupports acid attack survivors through her charity the Katie Piper Foundation, she has undergone more than 250 operations over the past decade.
Piper was yesterday unveiled as the first star name to appear in the 16th series of the dancing competition.
Steps singer Faye Tozer and Red Dwarf actor Danny Johnjules were later announced as the second and third contestants for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
The pair appeared on The One Show last night to announce they had signed up.
Piper told BBC Breakfast: “I think it gives a wider message that my past and the way I look is irrelevant and I’m able to go forward and do these things. “That’s something I’m really proud of. From a personal point of view, it’s so refreshing to be doing something so light hearted and just so fun.”
Piper told hosts Dan Walker and Louise Minchin she would like to be partnered with professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, but she is concerned she has no natural rhythm. She said: “I’ve faced challenges in my life before, so I’m going to try and apply the psychological mindset to it. I think whatever happens to me on Strictpresenter ly,ihopetocomeawaywitha different type of confidence in a different area of my life and I would have learned something new.”
Tozer, 42, said she was relieved that the secret was out, adding: “I’ve lied to so many people.” John-jules, 57, confessed to feeling daunted when he saw Tozer was also in the running for the Glitterball trophy. Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One in the autumn.