Former Coronation Street actress Helen Flanagan has revealed why she once declined an offer to join Strictly Come Dancing.
Helen Flanagan has revealed the real reason she once turned down the chance to appear on Strictly Come Dancing.
The former Coronation Street star, 35, is no stranger to popular TV shows, having previously taken part in ITV’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, which is set to return to our screens in just a few days.
Speaking exclusively to Wales Online in partnership with WhichBingo, Helen reflected on her career and admitted she’d actually love to take part in Strictly.
However, even though she was once offered the opportunity to step onto the famous ballroom floor, she ultimately chose not to accept it.
Explaining why she made that choice, Helen said: “I was offered Strictly, but I ended up choosing the jungle instead. In hindsight, it was definitely the right decision. You can’t live your life with regrets.”
She went on: “Even though I struggled in the jungle — well, not struggled, but I was terrible at the trials — it did kind of put my name out there, if that makes sense.”
Now, 13 years on, the actress is eager to finally take part in the BBC favourite. “I would absolutely love to do Strictly. I mean, who wouldn’t? I think everyone dreams of doing it. I’d adore the chance.”
Talking about this year’s lineup, she shared a heartfelt message for one contestant in particular: “Vicky Pattison is on it right now, and I absolutely love Vicky.”
“I think every woman adores Vicky. She’s such a champion for women — she really speaks up for us. I just love everything she stands for.”
Helen then opened up about her own health challenges, adding: “I deal with PMDD, and it has a big impact on my life. I really appreciate how openly Vicky discusses it. She’s genuinely helped me with my own PMDD.”
She continued: “I’m honestly cheering her on so much on Strictly. And honestly, Strictly is incredible — I’m such a girly girl at heart, so the idea of getting all dressed up really appeals to me.”
Helen took part in ITV’s I’m A Celeb in 2012, the same year she exited Coronation Street, when she was just 22.
Reflecting on the experience, she said: “Nothing truly gets you ready for it. I went into the jungle at 22.
“It’s one of the biggest programmes in Britain, but I didn’t do any preparation at all. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I thought I could just wing it, and I was completely clueless. But I absolutely loved the social aspect.”
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