Nick Knowles, the 61-year-old presenter of BBC's popular home makeover show DIY SOS, has confirmed his participation in the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing. This news comes after months of speculation and negotiations, as the dance show grapples with accusations of abusive behavior from former contestants.
Knowles, known for his energetic personality and DIY skills, is no stranger to the spotlight. He has hosted DIY SOS for over two decades, inspiring countless viewers to tackle home improvement projects. His decision to join Strictly signifies a bold move, venturing into a new realm of entertainment and stepping onto the dance floor.
A source close to Knowles revealed, "Nick has always loved Strictly, and he is incredibly excited. He's got a great personality, is incredibly driven and competitive, and is up for giving anything a crack. He's going on the show to entertain and to win. He'll give it his best shot."
Knowles's participation in Strictly comes at a time when the show faces scrutiny over allegations of misconduct from some of its professional dancers. Several former contestants have come forward with claims of bullying and inappropriate behavior from professionals, casting a shadow over the show's positive image.
Despite the controversies, Strictly remains a beloved British institution, drawing in millions of viewers each week. Knowles's presence promises to add a dose of familiar charm and lightheartedness to the competition, as he joins a cast of other celebrities, including fellow BBC star Jamie Borthwick, who plays Jay Brown in EastEnders and won the Strictly festive edition last year.
In March 2023, Knowles shared a video of himself dancing on Instagram, prompting speculation about his potential participation in Strictly. He has also previously worked with the show's professional dancers, including Katya Jones and Luba Mushtuk, during a Strictly special episode of DIY SOS.
Knowles's participation in the show is sure to be a talking point, and his journey on Strictly will be closely watched by fans of both DIY SOS and the dance competition. He will be aiming to impress both the judges and viewers with his dance skills and on-stage personality.
As the show prepares for its return in September, Knowles's involvement promises to inject a fresh dynamic into the competition, while navigating the challenges of the ongoing investigations into the alleged misconduct of some of its professional dancers.