Strictly Come Dancing's Arlene Phillips Reveals Show is Getting More Competitive

Strategic Insights -

Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips claims that the show has become more competitive with contestants now getting dance lessons before they even start, contrary to the early days when she was on the panel. The acclaimed choreographer, who spent four years judging alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli, and Len Goodman, notes that there is now more emphasis on winning, with professional dancers also vying to lift the coveted Glitterball.

Key Takeaways:

  • Arlene Phillips, a former Strictly Come Dancing judge, states that the show has become more competitive, with contestants now receiving dance lessons before appearing on the show.
  • According to Arlene, in her time on the panel, contestants did not typically take dance lessons to gain an advantage.
  • The show's emphasis on winning has increased, with professional dancers also competing to lift the Glitterball.
  • Arlene notes that the audience loves contestants who are "full of joy and have fun" rather than those who are overly focused on winning.
  • She revealed that she helped Bruno Tonioli secure a spot on the show after he was initially rejected at his first audition.
  • Arlene was axed from the show at the age of 64, with the decision causing a public outcry and accusations of ageism.
  • The judge reflected on the experience, stating that the rejection was "monumentally hurtful" and that the way she was informed was difficult.
  • Arlene emphasized that she does not feel her age, stating that she is "up in the morning, going to work, to an event, to see a show" and does not think about her age until she is 80.
  • She has been approached about creating a musical about her life and the dance troupe Hot Gossip.

Statistics:

  • Arlene Phillips was on the Strictly Come Dancing panel for four years.
  • Contestants are now receiving dance lessons before appearing on the show.
  • The number of professional dancers competing for the Glitterball has increased.
  • Alesha Dixon, 35 years Arlene's junior, replaced her on the show at the age of 64.
  • Arlene was 80 when she started thinking more about her age and the finite time she has left.

Sources:

  • Kaye Adams, "How to be 60" podcast (no date mentioned)
  • How to be 60 (no website listed)