Gogglebox's Tom Malone says 'dance changed my life' as he launches huge project
Gogglebox star Tom Malone Jnr has revealed that he has created a major new project using dance to help children with autism.
The 30-year-old reality TV star shot to fame on the Channel 4 show in 2014 critiquing TV shows along with his mum Julie, dad Tom Senior and his brother Shaun. And he has now decided to set up dance classes for children in the Manchester area. In a candid post, Tom shared with fans that he too has autism and dance was a "creative outlet" for him growing up, which then enabled him to gain confidence.
Gogglebox star Tom Malone Jnr has set up dance classes helping children with autism (tommalonejr/Instagram)
Gogglebox's Tom Malone Jnr shared with fans that he too has autism and wants to help other children (INSTAGRAM)Taking to Instagram, he told his followers: "Growing up as a kid with autism, dance helped me massively. It gave me a creative outlet and a way to express myself and above all else it was great for my confidence." He added: "For that reason I want to give back. So I’m setting up a course in Manchester for young autistic people to come and learn to dance. Starting April 27th I will be teaching two classes every Saturday for 3 weeks, followed by monthly classes after that. And it will be completely FREE. The first class will be for kids aged 7-12 and the second class will be for ages 12+."
And in an exclusive chat with the Mirror, he told us: "So prior to Gogglebox I had a successful career as a professional dancer. I danced for the likes of Rita Ora, Fergie, Emily Sande, Wiley and many more. I’m a part of two breaking crews, Soul Mavericks and Primal Instincts who represent the UK when competing in the battle scene around the world."
He added: "And in December 2022 I performed at Capitals Jingle Bell Ball becoming the first solo dancer to perform to a sold-out O2 arena as the lead artist with my own backing dancers, performing a routine that I choreographed myself. As a child dance helped me massively by giving me a way to express myself, as I struggled with doing so verbally. I also believe it helped me a lot with my confidence and has allowed me to change my life."
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In response to his post fans were quick to comment on his admirable effort. One person said: "Beautiful and brilliant! What a lovely way to help the next generation of autistic people feel more at home in this challenging world. Love this!" Another person commented: "Beyond in awe of you mate. This is absolutely incredible and SO many people will benefit from this. x"
Meanwhile, a third person wrote: "Maybe an autism class for adults also would be cool. As there are plenty of opportunities when young but not much as an adult." And a fourth added: "Love that." Back in 2021, Tom left fans devastated after revealing that he had made the decision to quit the show just days before a new series aired.
Tom Malone Jnr appeared on Gogglebox from 2014 until 2021 (Channel 4)Sharing a picture of himself holding up a make-shift sign, it read: "Back on the market. Get at me with any TV work." And in a post that accompanied the picture, he wrote: "So after 6 and a half years it’s finally time to put down the remote, and to say goodbye to Gogglebox. I've loved every minute and I’m eternally grateful to @channel4 and @studiolambert for allowing me to be a part of the show. But new opportunities are knocking on the door and it’s time to explore them."
He continued: "I look forward to enjoying the show as a viewer and not having to worry about having said something stupid [laughing emoji]". However, Tom confirmed that the remaining members of the Malone family were staying on the show."PS. Don’t worry my family @themalonesgb and @shaunmalone95 will still be on the show to keep you guys entertained every Friday [okay emoji]", he explained.
He ended the post by saying: "To the future." Alongside his message, he added a champagne glass emoji. Tom has followed his dream of being a dancer for many years and became part of a dance crew called Soul Mavericks. Before starring on the show, his mum Julie worked as a receptionist at a dance studio, while his brother Shaun also acted and danced too.
For more information or to sign up to take part in the classes please email [email protected]
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