July 24th 2024.
A former star of Strictly Come Dancing recently opened up about his experience on the show, likening it to being in a "pressure cooker". Anthony Ogogo, an Olympic boxer turned wrestler, appeared on the popular series in 2015 alongside his professional dance partner Oti Mabuse. Unfortunately, they were the second couple to be eliminated from the competition.
Nearly a decade later, the 35-year-old reflects on his brief stint on the show, feeling "frustrated" by the whole experience. He even admits that even someone as strong-willed as himself could crumble under the immense pressure of being on the show. Anthony, who won a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, reveals that he was initially encouraged to participate despite a shoulder injury. However, as the injury worsened, production staff suggested that he should quit.
"It's a funny one, the Strictly experience," he shares. "They got me on the show when I was injured and had just had shoulder surgery. It was weird because they really encouraged me to do it, saying that my shoulder wouldn't be an issue. But once I was on the show, my shoulder was the reason I had to leave." He adds that he felt frustrated because it could have been an amazing experience if not for his injury.
The athlete also reveals that there were disagreements with the show's staff regarding his shoulder scars, which were caused by an infection after his surgery. He wanted to show the public how much pain he was going through, but the staff insisted on covering them up. "I wanted the scar to be visible, but they made a point of saying they didn't want it on TV," Anthony shares.
Despite the challenges he faced, Anthony has high praises for his dance partner, Oti, whom he describes as "brilliant". He also expresses his willingness to sign up for the show again, despite the recent scandals surrounding some professional dancers and concerns about the treatment of contestants.
In light of these controversies, the show's broadcaster, BBC, has implemented new measures to support the welfare of contestants, such as providing chaperones. On Tuesday, the BBC's director general, Tim Davie, issued an apology to any Strictly contestants who may have had a negative experience on the show. He also stated that the network will not tolerate any form of unacceptable behavior.
The Agency has reached out to BBC for comment. Strictly Come Dancing is set to return to the BBC later this year. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, you can contact the entertainment team at The Agency by email, phone, or through their Submit Stuff page. They would love to hear from you.
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