Strictly my own views...

Strictly Come Dancing 2011 has begun!

So the new series of Strictly Come Dancing has kicked off and already we’ve had our fair share of bitching, moaning and tantrums. (Yes, I’m looking at you Nancy Dell’Olio).

The 9th series of the popular ballroom dancing show began on September 6, 2011 and the familiar faces of the professional dance partners are back to entertain us, including Italian stallion Vincent Simone, trash-talker Brendan Cole and long-suffering Anton du Beke. And of course, this year’s show provides the public with a host of famous celebs (and some not-so famous, yes I’m looking at you Nancy Dell’Olio) to strut their stuff and try not to humiliate themselves in front of the judging panel. The line-up this year includes The One Show presenter Alex Jones, impressionist Rory Bremner, footballer Robbie Savage, actress and ex-Eastender Anita Dobson and many more.

The first send-off has been and gone with politician Edwina Curry waving goodbye to the glitz and glamour of Strictly last week. And let’s face it, she wasn’t the worst but I’m not exactly upset she’s left. Her dancing wasn’t exactly up to par against the celebrities who are in it to win it (see Holly Valance and Jason Donovan). Also, her cougar attitude was downright disgusting. I’m sure there’s nothing wrong with having a cheeky flirt with your prospective dance partner, but growling at the camera and talking about her suddenly wonderful sex life is a bit too far for my liking Edwina! ‘Red hot Curry’ you were certainly not, I’m afraid!

But some of the dancers are obviously in it for the long haul. Aussie, Jason Donovan, pulls out all the stops week after week, determined to be the best and putting the work in to do so.  Holly Valance steams up the dance floor with her sex appeal and Latin American dance moves; her performance as Roxy from Chicago this week astounded both the judges and the audience. I also feel that McFly’s Harry Judd is destined to go far but as of yet hasn’t had the recognition from the judges that he deserves. He surely has the rhythm, from being a drummer, he certainly has the looks, and all he needs now is the technique!

Holly's stunning performance as Roxie Hart from Chicago in Strictly's  Broadway week.

So this year’s Strictly is guaranteed to be another roller-coaster ride. Will romance blossom between Waterloo Road’s Chelsee Healey and new professional Pasha Kovalev? Will Lulu and Brendan’s feisty relationship result in him carting her off the dancefloor over his shoulder once again? Will there be any more costume disasters? (Yes, Nancy Dell’Olio). There’s only one way to find out..