Margaret Chrystall
Updated on: October 11, 2024 11:26 am GMT
Behind the glitzy performances and dazzling routines of “Strictly Come Dancing,” lies a phenomenon that has caused turmoil in the personal lives of many celebrities: the so-called “Strictly Curse.” This phenomenon has repeatedly seen contestants’ relationships unravel or take unexpected turns, often igniting public intrigue about the pressures and dynamics that emerge during the competition.
Recent Revelations About Kristina Rihanoff and Ben Cohen
Amid these stirred emotions, former professional dancer Kristina Rihanoff and her fiancé Ben Cohen have admitted to struggling to keep their relationship intact. This came to light recently during a court hearing concerning Kristina’s driving offense, where Ben disclosed his financial and emotional battles, stating, “I wake up every day fighting not to lose everything—my cars, my house, and my relationship. I’m deeply overdrawn.” This admission sheds light on the substantial strain that public scrutiny and personal challenges can impose on relationships formed amidst the pressures of the show.
Ben, a former rugby player, first gained notoriety in the “Strictly” ecosystem after he was partnered with Kristina in the 2013 series. Shortly after the season concluded, he parted ways with his wife of over 11 years, sparking rumors of infidelity although he maintained that no affair had occurred. The couple eventually went public, and their shared journey has seen them welcome a child and become engaged. Their recent struggles add to a growing list of high-profile couples from the show whose relationships have faced considerable challenges.
The Legacy of the Strictly Curse
Historical Context
The so-called Strictly Curse has a documented history, particularly revealing its influence over several past contestants. For instance, boxer Joe Calzaghe’s relationship suffered immediate consequences when he partnered with Kristina in 2009. Just a week into rehearsals, Joe split from his girlfriend Jo-Emma Larvin, who had expressed concerns that “they all end up having affairs.” After a brief romance with Kristina, which lasted four years, Joe and Kristina also parted ways over differing life goals, notably the desire for marriage and children.
Georgia May Foote and Sean Ward
Similarly, in 2015, actress Georgia May Foote joined the ranks of those affected by the curse after partnering with Giovanni Pernice. Despite assurances to her then-boyfriend Sean Ward that their relationship was secure, Sean’s insecurities reportedly contributed to their breakup, which coincided with Georgia’s budding romance with Giovanni soon afterward. Sources indicated that Georgia was taken aback by the split, noting a significant and unforeseen transformation in her relationship dynamics during and after the show.
The Personal Toll of the Curse
The ramifications of these public relationships extend beyond mere romantic strife; they can have broader implications for the individuals involved. Sean Ward’s situation starkly illustrates this. After his split from Georgia, he faced significant personal challenges, culminating in homelessness and admitting attempts to take his life in 2018 due to the intense pressures he experienced. His story highlights how the spotlight of celebrity culture can lead to profound personal vulnerabilities.
Flavia Cacace and Vincent Simone
Another poignant example involves Flavia Cacace, who left long-time partner Vincent Simone for EastEnders star Matt DiAngelo in 2007. Despite their brief romance, which ended amicably, Flavia soon entered into a relationship with fellow dancer Jimi Mistry, demonstrating that relationships forged in the competitive atmosphere of “Strictly” can often evolve rapidly, sometimes with unintended consequences for those left behind.
Controversies and Consequences
The Case of Seann Walsh and Katya Jones
The volatility of the Strictly Curse peaked in 2018 when comedian Seann Walsh was paired with married dancer Katya Jones. Their relationship was thrust into the limelight after a public kiss was captured and circulated, shocking their respective partners, who were also involved with the show. Both Seann and Katya faced widespread condemnation, and their apologies showcased the public relations fallout that often accompanies such controversies, illuminating how quickly personal situations can spiral into public scrutiny.
Consequences for Future Participants
The accumulation of such stories raises questions about the sustainability of relationships formed under the pressures of competitive reality television. Many past contestants reflect on how the intense rehearsals, long hours, and emotional investments can lead to unexpected shifts in relationship dynamics. The rise of social media further complicates these relationships, often creating an added layer of pressure as contestants navigate public opinion alongside personal challenges.
Looking Ahead
The “Strictly” show keeps bringing in new celebrities, and the idea of a curse is still a big part of it. Some contestants end up finding love, while others face unexpected problems. Stories from people like Kristina Rihanoff and Ben Cohen show how tricky love can be when you’re famous. Learning about these challenges can help us understand not only the excitement of dancing but also what it’s really like to have a relationship in the spotlight.
