Stacey Dooley

How has your strictly journey been so far? it’s a total departure for me and so much fun! my work is normally quite intense and serious but

Strictly is complete escapism and the most incredible thing i’ve ever done – but so frightening.

which dances have stood out for you? the Minions jive was our thing and the Doctor Who tango was nice because we were playing with the fact that Jodie Whittaker is the first female Doctor and it was exciting because i was in charge so i could say, ‘Kev, listen to what i am saying!’ But with the cha-cha, i knew it wasn’t my thing. When Craig gave it a score of four and said, ‘i didn’t like anything about it,’ i thought, ‘You’re a grown woman, don’t cry.’

what are the best things about having Kevin clifton as your professional dance partner?

He’s supportive and so invested and such a gent! He is the biggest sweetheart. i feel lucky to have him.

Has being a frontrunner made you think about the prospect of the glitterball trophy?

You let yourself imagine it but i’ve got to say, and this is so cheesy, i am just having the most incredible time. Whatever happens i have made a pal in Kevin.

of the other strictly contestants, who are you good friends with?

Joe Sugg is my boy, my bro, but you have got this gang, this odd family, and you are all in it together with a sense of camaraderie.

this week you are also presenting the

BBC1 documentary stacey dooley: the young and Homeless for children in need [tuesday, times vary]. tell us about that…

We share stories from some incredible teenagers struggling to find a safe place to live. i am so grateful to all of the brave young people involved and hope that their honesty will go on to start a really important

conversation about today’s homeless young people.