Chris Evans’ suggestion that Denise Van Outen shouldn’t be a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing sparked a bit of debate during the week.
The British radio presenter said he thought it was unfair as Van Outen had clearly had experience with dancing in her professional career.
Now, it might seem the other contestants’ could have a secret helping hand too as Girls Aloud’s Kimberley Walsh revealed who her dancing teacher is for the reality television show.
The brunette admitted her secret weapon in her bid to become this series’ dancing champion is her band-mate friend Cheryl Cole.
Cheryl actually learned ballroom dancing as a youngster and gave her best friend a crash course in the moves.
Kimberley, who makes her debut on the reality television show tonight, said; “Cheryl’s never been asked to do Strictly but she wouldn’t be allowed, she’s too good.
“She has been helping me with some steps. I asked her to show me an absolutely basic waltz, but even then I forgot after about ten minutes.
“If I’m struggling with my routines, she’ll be able to give me some SOS lessons.”
Walsh had turned down the opportunity to take part in Strictly twice already because she was too busy with the girl group, but said she agreed this time after friend Cheryl told her she “had to do it”.
“I’m quite confident performing with the girls because there is safety in numbers,” Kimberley said, “But going out there with just your partner is very daunting. There are no distractions, it is just you, that’s why I really want to conquer this challenge.”
Meanwhile, the show’s presenter Tess Daly promised that there would be no “nastiness” in this series.
Tess has hosted the show alongside Bruce Forsyth since it began in 2004. She will return to the screens tonight for its 10th series, but said she doesn’t think viewers will ever tire of it.
“Even when someone fails, there’s never an underlying nastiness or cruelty. We’re an affectionate show and we’re not poking fun at anyone. Strictly is feel-good television at its finest. People are part of it – they feel Strictly is their show. And we love that.
“I’ve grown up with it, I suppose. I live and breathe it. It’s like a family and we’re all coming back together.”
Bruce and Tess return to our screens tonight…
Tess is also looking forward to seeing how ballerina Darcey Bussell copes on the judging panel alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli after Alesha Dixon quit to join the show’s rival Britain’s Got Talent.
She told Weekend magazine: “None of us had any idea Alesha was going to leave. Of course, initially I was disappointed. I’d known her since I got into television. I loved the girl. But she’s going to make a success of whatever she chooses in life.
“I’ve spoken to Darcey and I told her, ‘Keep those boys in line. Treat them mean and keep them keen!'”
Tune in to Strictly Come Dancing tonight on BBC1 at 6:30pm.
