DIY SOS Star to Take on Strictly: From 'Fork in the Eye' to Ballroom Blitz?
Nick Knowles, the familiar face of BBC's DIY SOS, is reportedly set to swap his hammer for a dance shoe, joining the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing. The news comes as a surprise, given Knowles's past pronouncements about the show, where he once claimed he'd "rather have my eyes taken out with a fork" than appear.
In a 2016 interview, Knowles described Strictly as a platform for self-promotion, stating: "It's all about people trying to make themselves more famous." He also labelled the programme as a softer type of reality TV, saying it "takes the p**
out of people." Knowles added: "If you put yourself up for it, you ask for it."
However, it seems the allure of the Strictly ballroom has finally convinced the 61-year-old presenter. Sources suggest he has agreed to take part after months of discussions with producers, demonstrating a willingness to "give anything a crack."
While the professional dancers are currently in the throes of rehearsals, Knowles and his fiancée, Katie, were spotted shopping for gardening supplies, likely for a DIY project at their home. The couple emerged from a garden centre laden with plants, including hanging baskets, nepeta, and dahlias, which they loaded into their Range Rover.
Knowles's reported participation comes at a time when Strictly is grappling with serious allegations of misconduct and abuse. The show has been engulfed in controversy following the suspension of professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, accused of abusive behaviour by his former celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington. Pernice denies the claims.
In response to the recent turmoil, BBC director general Tim Davie has vowed a "tough approach" to clean up the show, acknowledging the "mistreatment" of some contestants. The BBC has introduced measures aimed at strengthening welfare and support for participants behind the scenes. Davie has also expressed regret for any negative experiences on Strictly, pledging to "reflect on" the complaints raised.
Abbington, in an interview with Channel 4 News, described her experience on Strictly as akin to fighting "in the trenches." She claimed that Pernice's former partners reached out to her, expressing their support and sorrow after the pairing was announced. Abbington also alleged that Pernice was attempting to block the release of hours of "toxic" rehearsal footage, some of which allegedly depict humiliating bullying "of a sexual nature."
A spokesperson for Pernice, who has consistently denied any accusations of threatening or abusive behaviour, denounced the interview, calling it "very serious and defamatory" and claiming Abbington has no evidence to support her allegations.
As the new series of Strictly approaches, the show faces a challenging task in rebuilding trust and ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all involved. Knowles's participation, despite his previous reservations, will undoubtedly add another layer to the narrative surrounding the show. It remains to be seen whether he can embrace the dance floor and navigate the current controversies that have cast a shadow over Strictly's reputation.
