December 3rd 2024.
Pete Wicks was feeling a lot of guilt after surviving yet another elimination on Strictly Come Dancing. Despite not being a natural-born performer, the 36-year-old reality star had managed to win over the hearts of the public and make it to the semi-finals. However, with each passing week, he couldn't help but feel like he didn't deserve to be there.
On Sunday night, Pete was once again surprised to hear his name called out by host Tess Daly, confirming that he had escaped the dreaded dance-off. This time, it was Tasha Ghouri and Gladiators star Montell Douglas who found themselves in the bottom two. The judges ultimately chose to save Tasha, who had received the first perfect score of the season. It was a no-brainer for them, but for Pete, it didn't feel right to watch two dancers who had scored better than him on the leaderboard fight for their spot in the competition.
"I can't help but feel guilty about it. There are so many talented and hardworking dancers on this show, and I know I'm clearly the weakest," Pete shared. "I constantly worry about taking this opportunity away from someone who deserves it more."
Despite his own doubts, it was clear that the public believed Pete deserved to be in the competition. This was something he found incredibly difficult to process. "I have no idea why people are voting for me, and I can't believe it every time I make it through," he admitted. After being one of the favorites for elimination in the first week, Pete had become an unlikely hero for Strictly fans. His charm and determination to overcome his lack of natural talent had won over the audience.
"I think the reason people have gotten behind me is that I'm not the best at dancing. I'm just a regular guy, and I've always given 150% in everything I do," Pete explained. "I've taken this show seriously, but I've never taken myself too seriously. It's been a journey of pushing myself out of my comfort zone and learning to be comfortable with being uncomfortable."
This transformation is what Strictly is all about - watching someone break out of their shell and become the best version of themselves. For Pete, this journey has not been easy. He admits to making mistakes on stage and feeling vulnerable in front of a live audience. But despite the setbacks and even receiving death threats from disturbed fans, Pete remains determined to make it to the final, not just for himself, but for his partner Jowita Pryzstal.
"She's an incredible person and the best teacher I've ever had. She's become such a dear friend to me, and I truly believe she deserves to be in the final. I would love to give her the opportunity to dance in the final again," Pete shared.
Even though he may not believe it himself, Pete has emerged as the real winner of Strictly. As a reality TV star, he has faced stigmas and criticism, but the show has given him the chance to prove himself and show his true self to the world.
"On Strictly, I can be authentic, and I'm just a normal guy. I think that's why people have gotten behind me - I'm just so average and relatable," Pete explained. "People may assume things about me because of my appearance or my background, but I've worked hard to get where I am. And I've enjoyed every moment of it."
Despite the potential for new opportunities and fame, Pete remains grounded and focused on the present. He knows the importance of cherishing each moment and not worrying about the future. "You can't get back a moment once it's passed, and if you don't enjoy it in the present, it's hard to look back and remember how it made you feel," he shared.
For now, Pete is just taking each day as it comes and reflecting on the amazing journey he has had on Strictly Come Dancing. And no matter what the future holds, he will always be grateful for the experience and the memories he has made.
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