What Is the Strictly Curse and Which Couples Have Been Affected?

Strictly Come Dancing 2025 has kicked off, captivating fans across the UK with its blend of glittering performances and behind-the-scenes intrigue. The show, famed for its celebrity dance-offs, has also garnered attention for the so-called 'Strictly curse', where contestants have been known to develop romantic relationships, sometimes at the expense of their prior commitments.

Last updated: 14 October 2025 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The 'Strictly curse' refers to contestants developing romantic relationships during the show, often leading to breakups.
• Notable instances include Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton, as well as Seann Walsh and Katya Jones.
• Some couples, like Rachel Riley and Pasha Kovalev, have found lasting love after the show.
• The phenomenon has sparked debate, with opinions divided on whether it is genuine or simply a result of the intense environment.
• Strictly Come Dancing continues to draw in viewers with its mix of dance, personality, and romance.

Understanding the Strictly Curse

The term 'Strictly curse' encapsulates the phenomenon where contestants find themselves romantically involved with fellow participants, often leading to the dissolution of existing relationships. This curse is not merely a light-hearted notion but has seen several confirmed romances blossom during and after the competition.

What is the Strictly Curse?

While many view it as a playful expression, the 'Strictly curse' has a deeper implication, suggesting that the intense atmosphere of the show, combined with long hours spent together, can ignite romantic feelings. Contestants often find themselves in close quarters, leading to emotional connections that may not have developed otherwise.

The Impact of the Curse

Controversy surrounds the curse, with some dismissing it as mere coincidence and others claiming it has led to genuine romances. It’s crucial to note that not all relationships formed on the show lead to breakups or scandal. In fact, some have resulted in lasting partnerships.

Notable Relationships Affected by the Curse

Over the years, numerous relationships have captured the public's attention, either for their drama or their sweetness. Here’s a look at some of the most prominent instances.

Seann Walsh and Katya Jones

The 2018 incident involving comedian Seann Walsh and professional dancer Katya Jones is one of the most talked-about instances of the Strictly curse. Despite both being in relationships at the time, their kiss after a night out led to public scrutiny. Katya was married to fellow dancer Neil Jones, while Seann was with actress Rebecca Humphries. Following the scandal, both relationships ended, and Katya expressed regret over the incident.

Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton

Stacey Dooley's journey on the sixteenth series of Strictly Come Dancing culminated in her winning the trophy alongside partner Kevin Clifton. However, Stacey was in a relationship with personal trainer Sam Tucknott during filming. By the following year, she and Kevin confirmed their relationship and have since welcomed their first child together, although Stacey insists their romance didn't begin until after the competition.

Joe Sugg and Dianne Buswell

After finishing as runners-up in 2018, YouTube star Joe Sugg and professional dancer Dianne Buswell became another high-profile couple to emerge from the show. Dianne had ended her previous relationship shortly before the competition, and while they faced speculation about their connection, both have maintained that their feelings developed post-show.

Rachel Riley and Pasha Kovalev

Mathematician and television presenter Rachel Riley separated from her husband in 2013 before starting a relationship with her dance partner Pasha Kovalev. Their romance blossomed during the series, and they later married in 2019, showcasing a successful outcome of the curse.

John Whaite and Johannes Radebe

In 2021, John Whaite and Johannes Radebe made history as the first male same-sex couple to compete on the show. John later revealed in his memoir that he fell in love with Johannes during their time together, further emphasising the emotional connections that can develop in the high-pressure environment of Strictly.

Tyler West and Molly Rainford

More recently, Tyler West and Molly Rainford confirmed their relationship after competing in the same series. Although they were not paired together, their connection grew throughout the show and extended into the subsequent tour, demonstrating that the curse can sometimes lead to unexpected love stories.

Why the Strictly Curse Matters

The Strictly curse has become a cultural phenomenon, highlighting the complex interplay between fame, romance, and the pressures of television. It serves as a reminder of how intense experiences can lead to unexpected outcomes, both positive and negative.

Moreover, the curse has implications for the contestants, as their personal lives often become fodder for public discussion. It raises questions about the ethics of reality television and the responsibilities producers have towards their participants.

The Producers' Perspective

Producers of Strictly Come Dancing have often been asked about the curse and its implications for the show. While they acknowledge the intense environment that can foster relationships, they also emphasise the professionalism of the dancers and contestants. Claudia Winkleman, a co-presenter, has remarked that many contestants come in single and leave with romantic connections, but she doesn't necessarily believe in the curse as a supernatural phenomenon.

Conclusion

As Strictly Come Dancing continues to enthral audiences, the interplay of dance, drama, and romance remains a focal point. The 'Strictly curse' serves as a captivating narrative thread, inviting audiences to explore the boundaries of love and competition. With each new series, fans eagerly anticipate not only the performances but also the potential for new romances to unfold. What do you think lies ahead for this year's contestants? Will the curse strike again?

#StrictlyComeDancing #StrictlyCurse #DanceRomance

FAQs

What is the Strictly curse?

The Strictly curse refers to the phenomenon where contestants develop romantic relationships with fellow participants, often leading to breakups with their previous partners.

Which couples from Strictly Come Dancing are still together?

Couples like Rachel Riley and Pasha Kovalev have found lasting love after their time on the show. Others, like Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton, also remain together and have started families.

Is the Strictly curse real, or just a myth?

While some argue it’s a myth, many instances suggest there is a genuine emotional connection that can form during the show, leading to real-life romances.

How do contestants deal with the pressure of the Strictly curse?

Contestants often rely on their professionalism and support from fellow dancers to handle the pressures of the show, focusing on their performances while navigating personal dynamics.

What are the implications of the Strictly curse for contestants?

The curse can lead to public scrutiny of contestants' personal lives, impacting their relationships and overall experience on the show, both positively and negatively.