Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 11, 2024 4:29 am GMT
After years of declining invitations, actress Sarah Hadland is set to showcase her dance skills on BBC’s renowned competition, Strictly Come Dancing, marking a long-awaited debut. Despite being a fan of the show, Hadland previously turned down requests to participate ten times over the span of 15 years. Now, she expresses her excitement for joining the cast and embracing the rigorous challenge ahead.
Reluctant but Ready
Sarah Hadland, known for her portrayal of Stevie in the BAFTA-winning series Miranda, revealed that her reluctance to join Strictly stemmed from the hefty commitment required by the show. “With a show like this, you can’t do it because somebody else thinks you should or because you feel like it’s the right thing to do,” she explained during a recent roundtable event. “I always feel, when I watch it, I don’t want to see people there who don’t really want to be there.”
For Hadland, her decision to join this year reflects a genuine desire. “I really wanted to participate this year, and I’m fully embracing the spirit of Strictly,” she affirmed.
A Supportive Network
Throughout the years, Hadland maintained a close network of friends and co-stars who were eager for her to join the competition. She often watched the show from the comfort of Miranda Hart’s home, where the atmosphere was lively and focused solely on the performances. “It’s very strict, you’re not allowed to talk during the dancing, it’s hardcore,” she recalled with a smile.
Additionally, Hadland has a group chat dedicated to Strictly, involving fellow enthusiasts like Sian Gibson and James Lance from Ted Lasso. Her friends have encouraged her to take the plunge into the world of competitive dance, with Gibson humorously insisting, “I can’t dance, you do it for me.”
Family Support
Family support also played a significant role in Hadland’s decision to finally say yes. “My mum has also been badgering me, and she was ecstatic when I changed my mind,” she said. This familial encouragement reinforced her belief that now was the right moment for her debut on the show.
New Beginnings in 2024
As she prepares for her performance, Hadland emphasized that 2024 felt like “the right time” to embrace this opportunity for multiple reasons. While the specifics of her potential dance routines remain under wraps, she hinted at being asked to dance to “Proud,” a song that resonates with her past performances and her journey on the show.
Impressive Career Foundations
Sarah Hadland is well-regarded for her contributions to British entertainment. Alongside her role in Miranda, she was one of the pioneering cast members in the beloved children’s series Horrible Histories and starred in the comedic ITV series The Job Lot. Hadland’s talent extends to film, having appeared in the James Bond movie Quantum of Solace.
Now, as she prepares to join the 2024 cast of Strictly, which features a diverse lineup including Olympic gold medalist Montell Douglas and DIY SOS host Nick Knowles, Hadland’s excitement is palpable. The series is set to return with its eager audience anticipating another season filled with talent and show-stopping performances.
Anticipation Builds for Launch
As the launch show approaches next Saturday, fans are buzzing with enthusiasm for the competition’s new cohort of stars. Strictly Come Dancing continues to captivate audiences, drawing in viewers who eagerly await the blend of glamour, competition, and heartfelt performances.
Without a doubt, Hadland’s journey on the show will be closely watched, as she takes this courageous step onto the dance floor after years of thinking it over. Her enthusiastic acceptance of the challenge suggests that she is ready to bring her dynamic personality to this beloved program.
While Hadland’s journey may have begun with reluctance, it is clear now that she is ready to take the plunge into the world of dance, transforming her years of hesitation into a celebration of skill and passion for performance.
As the show Strictly Come Dancing 2024 begins, Hadland joins a group of experienced dancers. She is excited to share her journey with both her fans and the other contestants.
