Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 11, 2024 11:15 am GMT
Fans of the BBC dance competition “Strictly Come Dancing” are buzzing with speculation surrounding the identity of comedian Chris McCausland’s celebrity partner, as the show gears up for its 22nd series debut this Saturday. McCausland, who is blind, is set to make history as the first visually impaired contestant to participate in the popular series, a milestone celebrated by many viewers and supporters.
First Blind Contestant in Strictly History
Chris McCausland, 47, is a well-known comedian and actor from Liverpool. His participation marks a significant moment in the show’s history, following previous inclusivity efforts that featured a deaf contestant. The announcement of his inclusion in the lineup has not only highlighted his talent but also opened discussions about representation and accessibility in mainstream entertainment.
As anticipation builds for the new season, a promotional video posted on “Strictly’s” official Instagram page introduced McCausland to fans. In the lighthearted clip, he jokes about his lack of experience with the show, noting wryly, “I’ve never seen the show for obvious reasons.” He humorously reflects on the intricacies of the dances, saying he plans to figure them out firsthand, as watching is not an option.
Speculation Surrounding Dianne Buswell
Much of the speculation around McCausland’s dancing partner centers on professional dancer Dianne Buswell. The Australian performer, who joined “Strictly Come Dancing” in 2017, has captured the admiration of fans and made headlines for her performances, including a notable run to the final with EastEnders star Bobby Brazier last year.
Fans have taken to social media to link McCausland’s upbeat personality and the gestures he made in the promotional video to Buswell’s own signature poses, such as the “sign of the horns.” One follower noted, “The sign of the horns is something Dianne does with lots of her fans.” This observation has spurred numerous comments and predictions regarding their potential partnership.
Buswell herself added to the excitement with a recent Instagram post that playfully teased her followers about her 2024 partner. In her video, she encouraged fans to guess who she would be partnered with this season, hinting at clues but stopping short of revealing any details. This has fueled speculation while giving McCausland’s supporters something to ponder.
McCausland Embracing the Challenge
In discussing his motivations for joining “Strictly,” McCausland explained that he views taking on such challenges as both daunting and rewarding. He stated, “I think sometimes the scariest things I’ve done have been the best experiences. And this is terrifying!” He expressed optimism about the experience, even joking that he expects to either have an amazing time or experience “three weeks I’ll never live down.”
His humor extends to recalling his favorite prior contestant, comedian Les Dennis, remarking on how Dennis’s early exit from the competition helped “lower the bar” for him, in terms of expectations. McCausland’s focus on enjoyment rather than perfection resonates with fans, especially since he emphasized the importance of laughter and embracing mistakes during the competition.
Looking Ahead to Series 22
As the new season of “Strictly Come Dancing” unfolds, viewers can expect a diverse group of contestants this year. Alongside McCausland, participants include personalities from various fields—singers, athletes, actors, and presenters—all excited to take on the challenge of live dancing in front of a national audience.
Each contestant has expressed a mix of nerves and enthusiasm as the premiere approaches. Participants like reality star Pete and singer JB shared their trepidation about the live performances, while former Olympic medalist Tom viewed the experience as an opportunity to explore something new and meet interesting people.
McCausland’s decision to join the competition stands out not only for his first-time participation as a blind contestant but also for the lighthearted spirit he brings to the show. The conversations and speculations surrounding his celebrity partner are a testament to the engagement and excitement that “Strictly” generates every season.
As the series begins, viewers will be eager to see McCausland on the dance floor, and many are left wondering if the predictions about Dianne Buswell will hold true. The show promises not only entertainment but also a chance for viewers to witness a celebration of diverse talents and stories.
This Saturday, the show is about to start, and everyone is excited for a season full of surprises, challenges, and touching dance moments. People all over the country will be watching closely, cheering for their favorite contestants and curious to see how Chris McCausland does in this new role.
