Chris McCausland, the 2024 Strictly Come Dancing champion, has opened up about the immense pressures he faced during his time on the hit BBC dance competition. 

The comedian, who made history as the show’s first blind contestant, admitted that the experience was mentally and physically demanding, 

revealing that even his young daughter, Sophie, felt the strain alongside him.

The Mental Challenge of Strictly

Speaking candidly about the competition, McCausland acknowledged the mental resilience required to make it through the show’s 13-week run. 

“I can see how people have struggled with it in the past because you’ve got to be tough,” 

he told The Sunday Times, highlighting the emotional and physical toll Strictly can take on its participants.

Throughout the competition, the 47-year-old comedian found himself grappling with stress, something his daughter quickly picked up on. As he recalled, Sophie, who was initially nervous about his involvement in the show, mirrored his anxiety, fearing that he might fall during a live performance.

“She was terrified when I started this because I think she could pick up on my nerves, and I couldn’t hide it,” he explained. “She was so nervous for me, in case I fell over.”

However, as the weeks passed and McCausland and his professional partner, Dianne Buswell, progressed through the competition, Sophie’s confidence in her father’s ability grew. “It was when we got to the semi-finals that she said, ‘Daddy, do you know when I said it doesn’t matter? I’ve changed my mind… I think you can win this thing.'”

A Proud Moment for Father and Daughter

McCausland’s victory in Strictly Come Dancing was a defining moment not just for him but also for his daughter. The comedian recalled the overwhelming pride Sophie felt when he was crowned champion. “In the end, she watched the final at home, screaming at the telly,” he shared. “It felt incredible for her to be that proud and that delighted.”

Despite his initial fears of stumbling on stage or struggling with the routines, McCausland defied expectations, captivating audiences with his dedication and charm. His historic win has since propelled his career to new heights, opening doors to exciting new opportunities.

Life After Strictly

Already a well-established stand-up comedian before Strictly, McCausland had made appearances on popular BBC panel shows such as Would I Lie to You? and Have I Got News for You. However, his Strictly triumph has significantly raised his profile, leading to a surge in opportunities across television, podcasting, and live performances.

Netflix has now acquired his two-year-old comedy special Speaky Blinder, which has been rebranded as Chris McCausland: Live. He also had the honor of delivering Channel 4’s Alternative Christmas Message, further cementing his status as a household name.

Additionally, McCausland and Buswell have launched a new podcast, Winning Isn’t Everything, which explores the realities of success and competition. Meanwhile, demand for his live comedy performances has soared, prompting additional dates to be added to his tour Yonks! to accommodate his growing fanbase.

Beyond his comedy and television work, McCausland is also set to release his autobiography in October. Timed perfectly for the pre-Christmas market, the book will offer readers an intimate look at his life, career, and Strictly experience.

A Transformative Experience

Winning Strictly Come Dancing has undoubtedly been a game-changer for Chris McCausland, both personally and professionally. The challenges he faced throughout the competition, from the physical demands of dancing to the mental resilience required to cope with the pressure, have only strengthened him.

Reflecting on the experience, McCausland acknowledges the impact Strictly has had on his life. Not only has it brought him closer to his daughter, but it has also opened up a wealth of new opportunities. His journey on the show, marked by determination, vulnerability, and triumph, has resonated with audiences, making him one of Strictly’s most memorable winners.

As he continues to embrace the opportunities that have come his way post-Strictly, one thing is clear—Chris McCausland’s star is shining brighter than ever.

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