Margaret Chrystall
Updated on: October 9, 2024 4:57 am GMT
Shayne Ward Gears Up for a Milestone Season on Strictly Come Dancing
Shayne Ward is ready to twirl back into the spotlight as he prepares for his debut on the iconic dance show, Strictly Come Dancing. The ex-X Factor winner and former Coronation Street star marks the 20th anniversary of his talent show victory and his upcoming 40th birthday with this thrilling new chapter. Ward, 39, is set to showcase his dance moves when the show premieres on September 14 at 7:20 PM on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
From X Factor Winner to Dance Floor Star
Ward’s rise to fame began when he triumphed in the ITV singing competition The X Factor in December 2005. At just 21 years old, he captivated audiences and landed a recording contract with Simon Cowell’s SyCo, releasing four albums, including the Christmas classic “That’s My Goal.” However, his journey hasn’t always been smooth—after being dropped by SyCo in 2011, Ward found his footing again, signing with an independent label in 2015 while also taking on the role of Aidan Connor in Coronation Street.
Aidan Connor and Beyond
In Coronation Street, Ward was praised for his sensitive portrayal of mental health and suicide, especially after collaborating with mental health charities. His performance earned him accolades, including Best Newcomer at the NTAs and Best Storyline at the Soap Awards. Following his stint in the soap, Ward appeared in various productions, including a lead role in the crime-drama series The Good Ship Murder, where he plays Jack Grayling, a former detective turned cabaret singer solving murders on a Mediterranean cruise ship.
Shayne Ward showcases his new style as he prepares for Strictly Come Dancing.
Strictly Come Dancing: A New Challenge
Shayne revealed his participation in Strictly Come Dancing during an interview on Lorraine, where he was accompanied by actress Miranda Hadland. Expressing excitement about the show, he said, “I’m buzzing to see all of the sparkles and magic that is Strictly in real life.” Despite embracing the challenge, he candidly admitted, “No promises on my dancing ability, but I will give it my best shot!”
Family Motivation and Personal Reflections
Ward’s primary motivation for joining the series stems from his desire to create memorable experiences for his children. “Because my gut told me so, and I want to see the biggest smiles on my children’s faces,” he explained. As he anticipates stepping onto the dance floor, he reflects on how much he’s grown since his X Factor days, noting, “Where did that time go? And I’m now looking at it with completely different eyes.”
Ward’s New Look and Dancing Aspirations
Recently, Shayne has been spotted with a fresh hairstyle inspired by footballer Jack Grealish, flaunting long, curly locks styled back with a headband. This look symbolizes his evolution from the clean-cut image that defined his early career. He intends to bring “fun, energy, and focus” to the dance floor as he prepares to compete alongside fellow celebrities, including Pete Wicks, JB Gill, and Sarah Hadland.
Ward’s Previous Reality TV Experience
Prior to Strictly, Ward competed on Dancing on Ice, where he finished in fifth place. Reflecting on that experience, he shared feelings of “devastation” after being eliminated and acknowledged that age has changed his physique over the years, saying, “of course my body’s going to change.” Despite embracing a more “cuddly” figure, he remains enthusiastic about this new venture.
Support and Safety on Set
In light of recent controversies surrounding Strictly Come Dancing, including allegations of bullying among professional dancers, Ward expressed confidence in the show’s new welfare policies. The BBC has implemented measures like using chaperones during rehearsals to protect participants’ well-being. “It has been nothing but smiles; it’s just a family,” he reassured viewers.
A Final Touch Before Performance
As he prepares for his first performance, Ward jokingly confirmed his willingness to embrace the realities of reality television—such as the possibility of sporting a fake tan: “Oh absolutely, bring it on!” The enthusiastic entertainer looks forward to what lies ahead as he balances his family life and the rigors of dance training.
The Start of Something New
The much-anticipated launch of Strictly Come Dancing is just around the corner, with loyal fans eager to see how the celebrity contestants perform. Shayne Ward, celebrating two significant milestones in his life while embarking on this new journey, is positioning himself for a triumphant return to television, aiming to entertain audiences in a completely different way this time around.
When the lights go down and the music starts, everyone will be excited to see if Shayne Ward can dance his way to the top!
