Strictly Come Dancing 2024 champion, Chris McCausland, has candidly spoken about the pressures of participating in the popular dance competition.
He acknowledged the mental toughness required, stating, "I can see how people have struggled with it in the past, because you've got to be tough."
The comedian confessed to experiencing significant stress during the show's 13-week run, which his young daughter Sophie also sensed and mirrored.
Speaking to the Sunday Times, he shared, "In the end, she watched the final at home, screaming at the telly."
With emotion evident during the interview, Chris fondly remembered: "It felt incredible for her to be that proud and that delighted."
The 47 year old previously revealed to The Telegraph that Sophie had initially been anxious about his participation in the high-profile BBC contest, saying, "She was terrified when I started this, because I think she could pick up on my nerves, and I couldn't hide it. She was so nervous for me, in case I fell over."
As the first blind celebrity contestant, Chris harboured fears of a potential mishap on live television, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Initially, Sophie would reassure him that merely taking part was a victory in itself.
However, as the weeks progressed, both their confidence levels soared. Chris reminisced, "It was when we got to the semi-finals, 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'."
There's no doubt that clinching the Strictly title has significantly transformed Chris's life.
