Sam Thompson Opens Up About Strictly Come Dancing’s Hidden Challenges

Reality television personality Sam Thompson has expressed relief that none of his friends will be competing on this year’s season of Strictly Come Dancing, following his candid remarks about the demanding nature of the live broadcasts. Thompson, 33, attended a recent live taping to support his former partner Zara McDermott, who is participating in the 2023 season alongside her partner Graziano Di Prima.

Having experienced the rigorous environment of reality television for years, including his time on I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!, Thompson was taken aback by the length and intensity of the Strictly live shows. In an exclusive interview with Reach, he described attending the taping as a “six-hour ordeal.” Despite the televised performances lasting around 90 minutes, he noted that audience members are confined to their seats for hours without many amenities.

“You are only there to watch your person, but you sit there for six hours,” Thompson remarked. “They don’t give you much in terms of amenities. You get one carton of water and that’s about it for six hours.” His light-hearted yet honest commentary highlights the behind-the-scenes realities of the beloved dance competition.

Thompson, who is also a best friend and business partner to fellow contestant Pete Wicks, admitted that he is grateful not to be involved in this year’s performances. “I’m pretty glad that none of my friends are doing it this year,” he said, indicating that he prefers to avoid the lengthy commitment involved in attending the live shows.

While he mingles with former Strictly stars, Thompson confirmed that he has no intention of vying for the glitterball trophy himself. He also reflected on his experience in the jungle during his stint on I’m A Celebrity, sharing that the reality of the situation was “more real than everyone understands.”

“You are literally in the middle of a jungle, and no one is coming to help,” he explained. “You don’t speak to producers or anything like that; it’s literally just you and the people that you’re with.” He concluded that this isolation contributes to the authenticity of the experience, making it “so beautiful.”

As anticipation builds for the upcoming season, Strictly Come Dancing is set to air its first episode this Saturday at 18:40 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Thompson’s insights provide a unique perspective on the challenges faced by both contestants and their supporters, reminding viewers of the dedication required behind the glitz and glamour.