EXCLUSIVE: Strictly star Flavia Cacace revealed the brutal truth behind rehearsals – warning celebs must give 110% and admitting some only improve when they’re “shouted at”
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Flavia Cacace has lifted the lid on the brutal reality of rehearsals – and admitted some celebrity contestants need a serious telling-off to keep up with the show’s gruelling demands.
The ballroom favourite, who was one of the BBC competition’s most recognisable dancers for years, revealed that not every star is fully prepared for just how much work Strictly takes behind the glitter and sequins.
Flavia told the Daily Star in collaboration Betway and said: “For the contestants, my advice would always be to go into it with really open eyes. You’ve got to have a clear understanding of what the commitment is and what the show is asking of you.
“When I was on the show, especially in the earlier days, it wasn’t uncommon to get a partner who didn’t really know what was expected of them. Some had other work commitments and it was a shock. As a pro, you can feel deflated – because you want them to give 110%. It doesn’t matter how good they are or what the results are, but they have to give it their all.”
But it isn’t just the celebrities who need advice – Flavia said the professional dancers have to adapt their style depending on who they’re paired with. And that sometimes means tough love.
She explained: “As a professional, you want to do your best and of course you want to win. But the priority really is that your partner enjoys the experience. That means you have to be adaptable.
“You’ve got to change the way you teach for every celebrity. Some people need more care, patience and understanding. Others need to be shouted at and pushed to their limit. There isn’t one way that fits everybody, so you have to learn together.”
Flavia, who famously lifted the Glitterball Trophy with actor Louis Smith back in 2012, admitted the pressure can take its toll – but says the reward is worth it when a contestant throws themselves into the challenge.
“Strictly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” she added. “But you’ve got to be ready to work harder than you’ve ever worked before.”
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