The saviour of Strictly - Price Prediction

As someone who has been a dedicated viewer of Strictly Come Dancing for over two decades, I can confidently say that this year’s series has been nothing short of a revelation. The show, which once seemed to be losing its sparkle, has been rejuvenated by the incredible journey of Chris McCausland.

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What a difference a dance makes. For a while there, it looked as though the bloom had come off the rose – or more precisely, the glitter off the ball. For two decades, Strictly Come Dancing had withstood annual grumbles about biased judging, celebrities “not being what they used to be” and “what’s a YouTuber, anyway?” to draw millions of viewers. Yet by the summer of 2024 it seemed as if the BBC’s – and by extension, the nation’s – flagship entertainment show had finally succumbed to the almost tailor-made idiom, “All that glitters is not gold.”

The low drum roll of discontent began earlier this year, with actor Amanda Abbington complaining about bad treatment (denied) by her 2023 dancing partner Giovanni Pernice. The BBC’s internal investigation concluded in September, upholding some, but not all, of the complaints made by Abbington, somewhat taking the gloss off the new series in its all-important 20th anniversary year.

As Graziano Di Prima, another dancer, abruptly left following accusations of misconduct (which he denies), the volume of the drumbeats seemed to intensify, suggesting growing turmoil. Adding to the trouble was Paralympian Will Bayley’s claim that he endured agonizing pain after his 2019 appearance on the show. This left many wondering if viewers would still be drawn to the ‘journeys’ when they suspected those being followed carried such a heavy load of baggage.

It’s not a secret that Smart TV provides predictions, almost like a prophet on a hilltop television. In an interview with BBC local radio in August, I stated: “The BBC is hoping for no more scandals and that this series will generate some positive news stories instead.” Admittedly, it wasn’t the most profound statement, but it seems someone was paying attention.

When the situation calls for it, the right person steps up. It might seem unexpected, but I’m not referring to charismatic reality TV personality Pete Wicks, or as I should say, Pete with his Pink PVC Trousers. Frankly, I’m not convinced he deserved the glitterball trophy. However, if there was an Oscar for his genuine “surprised” Kermit-like gasp when his devoted, female fans saved him from elimination, he would definitely win it.

Chris’s week eight dance was the moment of this and any series

I’d like to bring up Chris McCausland, a unique comedian we haven’t encountered before in our competition. In previous seasons, we’ve had celebrities with disabilities such as JJ Chalmers, an injured war veteran, and Paralympians Jonnie Peacock and Lauren Steadman. Remarkable communicators include Rose Ayling-Ellis from EastEnders, who captivated us with her silent world and won the 2021 series. This year, Tasha Ghouri, a deaf contestant, seems poised to reach the finale. Lastly, there was Bill Bailey, who defied expectations by not playing the stereotypical pantomime horse role in 2020 and instead won the competition.

McCausland, who has been blind since the age of 22, exhibits a unique blend of courage, adaptability, and curiosity. From the outset, he admitted, “I’m not sure what I’ve signed up for; I’ve never watched it before.” Initially, he joined the series alongside Pink PVC Pete, captivating viewers with his infectious enthusiasm and playful antics. However, an unexpected twist unfolded: unlike Wicks, McCausland learned to dance.

McCausland shared how his partner Dianne Buswell instructed him innovatively, and we witnessed the results of their hard work during week eight when they danced their Couple’s Choice to John Lennon’s “Instant Karma! (We All Shine On)”. In a stunning moment, he transported us into his world by temporarily darkening the studio. As the lights came back on, we saw him beaming, spinning Buswell gracefully in his arms. This emotional, exhilarating, and inspiring moment was the highlight of this season, if not any series.

For several entertaining months, we envisioned a TV world without “Strictly”. The ratings giant can’t last forever. The happenings of this series, both on and off the screen, have hopefully awakened the BBC from any sense of complacency. At least for now, producers can be grateful that they secured Chris McCausland – whoever ultimately wins this year, he will be the one to lift the still-shining trophy.

2024-12-04 00:37

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