Bill Bailey admits his family feared he'd be 'laughed at' on Strictly before win
Bill Bailey may have danced his way to victory on Strictly Come Dancing back in 2020 - but is seems he didn’t exactly have the full belief of his family every hop, skip and step of the way.
The 58-year-old comedian was the surprise winner of the 18th season of the show when he was paired with 33-year-old dance professional Oti Mabuse and they lifted the Glitterball Trophy together. But many had written the slightly unassuming comedy actor off ahead of his appearance on the dance floor - as did his own family.
Each year, Strictly tends to attract a ‘comedy’ contestant who appears to engage in the show for the experience over any semblance of talent. Past participants like politician Ann Widdecombe or What Not To Wear host Susannah Constantine have seen their efforts ridiculed by the judges and their efforts end in an early exit.
But Bill proved to be an adept dance student and took to the challenge with enthusiasm and flair - beating off competition from the likes of YouTube star HRVY, Made In Chelse’s Jamie Laing and EastEnders star Maisie Smith to win the show. Reflecting on his time on the show, Bill says his own father had written him off as “the Ann Widdecombe contestant” of the 2020 season and didn’t expect him to go far.
Bill Bailey has been reflecting on his time on Strictly in 2020 (PA)
Ann Widdecombe was a Strictly contestant back in 2010 (PA)In an unearthed interview with the Irish Independent, he revealed his family thought he would be seen underperforming. He said: “You know, the kind of contestant who just shuffles around for a bit and people have a laugh, and that’s it.” However, his dad soon saw Bill’s potential and was cheering him on - a concept that helped Bill himself persevere to the final.
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He told the publication: “The image of him on his own in his house going ‘Yes!’ made the whole thing worthwhile for me.” He also said his own father had never been a fan of Strictly before he took part - and that he ultimately: “got really into it.”
The current season of Strictly Come Dancing saw Les Dennis being voted off in the first week of the contest. He was regarded by many as a comedy contestant, but the 70-year-old - who had been paired with 32-year-old professional dancer Nancy Xu - bowed out graciously after being the first star to fall.
He said in an exit interview: "I’ve had the best time, this lady has been amazing, a great teacher, she’s really put me through my paces. [To Nancy] I did as well as I could for you, I hope!
“That lot up there [the judges], I’m going to miss you so much. I really appreciate and understand the judge’s point of view, thank you so much [To Shirley] for giving me a 10 for entertainment. I hope I’ve entertained, that’s what I came here for. Strictly is the best and the people who put this on… you’re just all amazing!"
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