Was Vicky Pattison's Strictly Come Dancing Launch the Worst Experience Ever?

Vicky Pattison has candidly shared that filming the launch show for Strictly Come Dancing was one of the most challenging experiences of her life. The reality TV star, who is set to join 14 other celebrities in the latest series of the popular BBC show, has expressed her anxieties and the toll it took on her mental health, revealing that she sought help from professionals to manage her fears.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Vicky Pattison described the Strictly Come Dancing launch show as the ‘worst experience of her life’.
• She has sought therapy to deal with her anxieties about participating in the show.
• Pattison revealed that the competitive environment heightened her insecurities.
• Despite her initial fears, she enjoyed the dancing once she got started.
• The new series of Strictly Come Dancing features 15 celebrities showcasing a range of abilities.

Vicky Pattison's Journey to the Dance Floor

The 37-year-old Geordie Shore and Ex On the Beach star has been open about her struggles leading up to the launch of Strictly Come Dancing, which kicks off this evening on BBC One. Pattison's comments reflect a broader conversation about mental health, especially in high-pressure environments like reality television.

During her appearance on Angela Scanlon's Get a Grip podcast, Vicky revealed the overwhelm she felt when faced with the prospect of performing in front of a live audience. Her admission that she cried for three hours straight shows just how intense these feelings were. “I was getting so overwhelmed in my own head,” she explained, highlighting the anxiety many performers experience.

Seeking Help: The Role of Therapy

Vicky's decision to seek help from psychologists Nick and Eva Speakman underscores the importance of mental health support. The Speakmans, known for their work on This Morning, specialise in helping individuals overcome various anxieties and fears. Pattison's openness about returning to therapy serves as a reminder that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

Many celebrities have faced similar pressures, and Vicky's experience sheds light on the often unseen struggles behind the glitz and glamour of television. As she navigates her journey on Strictly, her candidness may inspire others dealing with similar issues to seek support.

The Launch Show: A Challenging Experience

Vicky described the atmosphere of the launch show as both exhilarating and daunting. “The launch show is everybody all together, all singing, all dancing,” she said, emphasising the spectacle involved in welcoming the new series. This communal performance can amplify insecurities, especially when surrounded by professional dancers and other contestants with varying skill levels.

“It does just make you like cripplingly aware of how s***e you are if ya s***e, and I am s***e,” she confessed, reflecting the harsh self-criticism that many feel in competitive settings. Such feelings are common among participants, as the pressure to perform can lead to significant anxiety and self-doubt.

The Wardrobe Woes

Another aspect of the experience that contributed to Vicky's discomfort was her costume. She described wearing a ‘special girdle’ that made her feel like a “sausage in a skin.” This physical discomfort added to her anxiety, but it’s a common element of the show, as all contestants are fitted with similar outfits designed to enhance their performance on the dance floor. Angela reassured her that everyone is given a corset in their outfits, which is a standard practice for the show.

Finding Joy in Dancing

Despite her overwhelming experience during the launch show, Vicky eventually found joy in the dancing itself. “Once we got stuck into the dance, I loved it,” she stated, highlighting a key aspect of the show—while the lead-up may be fraught with anxiety, the actual performances can be incredibly rewarding. Many contestants have noted that the thrill of dancing can outweigh the initial nerves, creating a transformative experience.

What's Next for Vicky Pattison on Strictly Come Dancing

As the new series unfolds, viewers will have the chance to see how Vicky continues to navigate her journey. The competition will showcase a spectrum of abilities, and it's likely that Pattison will make significant progress as she grows more comfortable on stage. The support from her fellow contestants and professionals involved in the show may help to alleviate some of her anxieties, allowing her to shine.

With the premiere airing soon, audiences are eager to see how Vicky's story develops. Her willingness to share her struggles could resonate with many viewers, fostering a connection that extends beyond the dance floor.

Conclusion

Vicky Pattison's candid reflections on her experience filming the Strictly Come Dancing launch show highlight the complexities of participating in such a high-profile competition. While the pressures and anxieties can be overwhelming, her journey illustrates the importance of support and the potential for personal growth through challenging experiences. As the series progresses, many will be watching to see how she not only copes with her fears but also embraces the joy of dancing. Will she find her rhythm amidst the chaos? Only time will tell.

#StrictlyComeDancing #VickyPattison #MentalHealth

FAQs

What did Vicky Pattison say about her experience on Strictly Come Dancing?

Vicky Pattison described her filming experience for the launch show as the ‘worst experience of her life’, expressing significant anxiety and overwhelm.

Why did Vicky seek therapy before joining Strictly Come Dancing?

She sought therapy to manage her anxieties about performing on the show, highlighting the mental health challenges many contestants face.

How did Vicky feel about the launch show?

Despite her fears, once Vicky began dancing, she expressed that she loved the experience, showcasing the transformative nature of performance.

What costume issues did Vicky face during the show?

Vicky mentioned feeling uncomfortable in a ‘special girdle’ that made her feel restricted, a common experience for contestants on the show.

How does Vicky's experience reflect on mental health in reality TV?

Her openness about anxiety and seeking help illustrates the mental health challenges that can arise in the competitive environment of reality television.