Chris McCausland to Make History on Strictly Come Dancing

Comedian Chris McCausland is set to make history as he joins the beloved BBC show, Strictly Come Dancing, as the first-ever blind contestant. This news has fans buzzing with anticipation for the show’s return this fall.

McCausland, known for his appearances on shows like Have I Got News for You, is taking a light-hearted approach to his new challenge. He jokingly remarked, “I don’t dance, I haven’t danced, I can’t dance, I can’t see the dancing I will have to do. What can possibly go wrong?” Well, that’s certainly one way to look at it!

Joining him in this year’s lineup is JB Gill, the former JLS singer. Gill expressed his excitement about the competition, looking forward to flexing some new skills that he can show off to his bandmates. He reminisced about his previous experience in the Strictly Christmas special and said he can’t wait to dive into this new adventure.

This year’s Strictly Come Dancing arrives amid previous reports and discussions surrounding the show’s treatment of contestants. McCausland’s participation comes after the success of Rose Ayling-Ellis, the show’s first deaf dancer, who won the competition in 2021 alongside Giovanni Pernice. Her win not only celebrated her talent but also raised awareness for the deaf community.

McCausland shared his thoughts on how disability representation in media should feel natural and not forced. He believes that while being blind is a part of him, making the show enjoyable for audiences without focusing too heavily on his disability will resonate more powerfully.

As the excitement builds, more celebrity contestants are set to be announced for this new series. However, the show has also been in the spotlight for some unenviable reasons recently, with allegations about inappropriate behavior and a toxic work culture circulating in the media.

The BBC, while acknowledging these concerns, has stated that they don’t recognize claims of a negative workplace culture and are taking steps to improve welfare and support for contestants across the board.