Can You Add a Touch of The Slosh to Your Strictly Dance?

Ross King, a familiar face in UK entertainment, is stepping into the limelight as he joins the 23rd series of Strictly Come Dancing. Known for his work on ITV's Lorraine and Good Morning Britain, King aims to infuse his Scottish heritage into his dance routines, showcasing traditional dances and music. He expresses a mix of excitement and nerves about the experience, hoping to make his homeland proud.

Last updated: 02 November 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Ross King is representing Scotland on Strictly Come Dancing.
• He aims to incorporate Scottish dances and music into his routines.
• King is excited yet daunted by the show's popularity and competitive nature.
• He seeks advice from friends in the entertainment industry.
• King hopes to improve his dancing skills while making his parents proud.

Ross King's Journey to the Strictly Dancefloor

As a seasoned entertainment reporter, Ross King has spent years interviewing Hollywood stars from his base in Los Angeles. However, he is now ready to take on a new challenge—dancing on one of the UK's most beloved television shows, Strictly Come Dancing. This famous programme, which has captivated audiences for over two decades, combines competitive dance with celebrity charm, and King is eager to embrace this new adventure.

Bringing Scottish Heritage to the Dancefloor

In an interview, King expressed his desire to incorporate Scottish culture into his performances. He mentioned traditional dances like The Slosh and the Gay Gordons, which he hopes to feature in his routines. "I've always been very patriotic and I love Scotland," he stated, highlighting his commitment to representing his roots on a national platform. He even suggested songs from iconic Scottish artists such as The Proclaimers, Lewis Capaldi, and Paulo Nutini as potential soundtracks for his dances.

Understanding the Scale of Strictly Come Dancing

Having flown in from LA, King was taken aback by the immense popularity of Strictly. "I had no idea...what a juggernaut of a show it is," he admitted. This revelation underscores how the show has become a cultural institution in the UK, drawing millions of viewers each week and creating lasting memories for participants and audiences alike.

Facing the Challenge with a Smile

Despite feeling daunted by the competition, King remains optimistic. He described the experience as "wonderful," and is approaching it with a positive attitude. "I'll do the whole thing with the biggest smile on my face," he remarked, indicating his commitment to enjoy the journey, regardless of the outcome. His light-hearted approach is a refreshing perspective in a competition that often brings intense pressure.

Embracing New Skills and Experiences

King views this opportunity as a chance to learn and grow. "I've never done a reality show," he acknowledged, but he sees this as a unique chance to learn a new skill. "On day one, you get to dance with all the pros...they're brilliant teachers," he added, emphasising the educational aspect of the experience. This reflects a broader interest in personal development and taking on challenges later in life.

Support from Friends and Family

Advice and encouragement from friends in the industry have helped King navigate this new venture. Fellow presenter Lorraine Kelly, along with former Strictly contestants Joe McFadden and Ranvir Singh, have shared their insights with him. The consensus? Enjoy the experience. This advice resonates deeply with King, who has spent years performing in musicals and pantomimes but is now stepping into the forefront of a dance competition.

Returning to His Roots

King has expressed how special it is to return to Glasgow, which he still considers home. He cherishes the local banter and the sense of community that he misses while living abroad. "This is always home," he asserts, highlighting the importance of his Scottish identity in his life and career.

Indulging in Scottish Delights

While back in Scotland, King has taken the opportunity to enjoy some of his favourite local foods. He described a "roll and slice" as the "breakfast of champions," showcasing his fondness for traditional Scottish fare. However, he is also mindful of the physical demands of dancing and hopes that the training will help him stay fit.

Honouring Family Values

King often refers to the wisdom of his late parents, especially his mother, who encouraged him to "give it a go" and always do his best. This philosophy drives him as he embarks on this new chapter in his life. "Hopefully, I won't let anyone down," he said, demonstrating his desire to honour his family's legacy while pursuing his dreams.

The Anticipation of Strictly Come Dancing's Return

The upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing is set to air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, promising a blend of glitz, glamour, and competitive spirit. Fans are eager to see how King will incorporate his Scottish heritage into his performances and whether he can keep up with the demanding choreography.

What’s Next for Ross King?

As King prepares to step onto the dance floor, the excitement builds not only for him but also for his fans who have followed his career. The anticipation surrounding his performances reflects the broader cultural significance of Strictly Come Dancing as a platform where celebrities can showcase their talents beyond their usual personas.

With the show set to return soon, viewers will be watching closely to see how King embraces the challenge and whether he can fulfil his goals of improving his dancing skills while representing Scotland with pride. As he embarks on this journey, one thing is clear: Ross King is ready to dance his heart out!

FAQs

What is Strictly Come Dancing?

Strictly Come Dancing is a popular UK television show where celebrities pair with professional dancers to compete in ballroom and Latin dance. The show has been a staple of British entertainment since its debut in 2004.

Who is Ross King?

Ross King is a Scottish entertainment reporter and presenter, known for his work on programmes like ITV's Lorraine and Good Morning Britain. He is now competing in the 23rd series of Strictly Come Dancing.

What dances does Ross King want to include in his routines?

Ross King expressed a desire to incorporate traditional Scottish dances such as The Slosh and the Gay Gordons into his Strictly routines, showcasing his heritage on the dance floor.

When does the new series of Strictly Come Dancing start?

The new series of Strictly Come Dancing is set to return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday, bringing with it a fresh lineup of contestants and exciting performances.

How does Ross King feel about competing on Strictly?

Ross King feels a mix of excitement and nerves about competing on Strictly Come Dancing. He is eager to learn and improve his skills while enjoying the experience to the fullest.

What advice has Ross King received from his friends?

Ross King has received advice from friends in the entertainment industry, including Lorraine Kelly and former Strictly contestants. The main takeaway has been to enjoy the experience and embrace the challenge of dancing.