Yahoo News Strictly Come Dancing: Is Tim Peake Joining The 2016 Line-Up?
British astronaut Tim Peake recently landed back on Earth after a historic six-month stay in space, but now he could be set to rocket onto the line-up for Strictly Come Dancing’s forthcoming series.
BBC talent show producers are reportedly keen to secure Tim, 44, for a two-step across the ballroom, but there’s one slight snag – the International Space Station crewmember is undergoing intensive physical therapy for two years.
Copyright [NASA/Joel Kowsky/REX/Shutterstock]
Despite claiming the top spot on the wish list, Tim is currently having treatment to recover muscle strength that has been lost in the zero gravity atmosphere, according to The Sun.
An insider told the publication: “He was obviously huge this year and would be a dream signing. But considering the man is on something like a two-year rehab to get walking properly, we might have to wait until next year to see him do the Paso Doble.”
After returning from space expeditions, astronauts must learn how to walk again and physical activities present a high risk for breaking weakened bones – so Tim’s Strictly debut would probably have to be postponed until 2017.
Copyright [Ross McDairmant Photography/REX/Shutterstock]
Meanwhile, former shadow chancellor Ed Balls – who was announced as the first contestant of the series on Monday (Aug 8) – has revealed fears over his own fitness levels.
The ex-politician, 49, has been in training for weeks ahead of the show’s medical examination, previously explaining: “I’ll do 12 hours a day training and hopefully I will last a week, maybe two.”
Other stars rumoured to be joining Ed on the latest series include actress Lesley Joseph, singer Will Young, former royal butler Paul Burrell and TV presenter Laura Whitmore – watch this space!
BBC One will air the Strictly Come Dancing series premiere in September.
