BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Neil Jones teases new role after missing out on celeb partner

Strictly Come Dancing professional Neil Jones has been on the show for 10 years but has only had a celebrity partner twice so far
-Credit: (Image: Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images)


Strictly Come Dancing star Neil Jones has his eyes set on a new potential role as he gears up for the show's launch tonight.

The BBC professional dancer, who has often found himself without a celebrity partner - eight times out of ten series to be precise - is still in the dark about whether he'll be hitting the dance floor with a celebrity this year.

In light of the upcoming show, Neil opened up about his experience and tenure on Strictly before half-jokingly suggesting that he might emulate Anton du Beke and take on a judge's role in two decades' time.

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When quizzed about where he sees himself and the future of Strictly, he optimistically remarked: "I honestly think it's still going to be here. It's going to keep growing and developing. I can't imagine myself still dancing on the show in 20 years' time, as much as I would love to, I don't know if my body will handle that. That would make me 62, you never know! Maybe I'll be a judge by then.."

As for pre-performance jitters, Neil insists he only feels excitement, not nerves. Explaining his mindset before stepping onto the dancefloor, he conveyed: "I wouldn't say it's nerves, it's excitement.

"At that point, if you're going out there to do a group dance you know this is the last time we're doing it. If it's with a partner, I just want to make sure they're okay and comfortable. I'll let them know it's not the end of the world so go out and have fun."

Neil has been on Strictly for years
Neil has been on Strictly for years -Credit:BBC

Neil expressed his amazement at his tenure on the show, saying: "It's brilliant. I've been around the show for about 10 years so it's incredible to be a part of this for that long."

Delving into how he gets ready for the live performances, Neil also shared: "I'm always focusing on the steps, so I'll be having fun with everyone but mainly thinking about the steps."

*Strictly Come Dancing makes its glittering return tonight on BBC One for its much-anticipated launch show.