Strictly Come Dancing star 'in worrying position' ahead of first live show
Strictly Come Dancing fans are buzzing as this year's celebrity contestants have been matched with their professional dance partners. The launch show treated BBC audiences to a sneak peek of the upcoming glitz and glamour, featuring a group performance to the tune of Dance Yourself Dizzy by Liquid Gold.
But it seems there might be early drama for one contestant on Strictly Come Dancing, who has received a disappointing setback before the first live show even kicks off. Ex-footballer Paul Merson is tipped by bookies to potentially be the first to leave the competition, with odds standing at 9/4, while Nick Knowles isn't far behind at odds of 3/1.
Ladbrokes' Alex Apati commented: "Paul Merson will already be praying for extra-time if the latest odds are anything to go by," reports the Express. The 56-year-old sports star has been teamed up with Karen Hauer, who expressed her desire for Paul to relish every moment on the show.
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She enthused to the BBC: "I want everyone to enjoy themselves because this is one of the greatest experiences we're going to have the most fun!"
Karen also disclosed that their debut dance would be an American Smooth to Vindaloo by Fat Les. Paul Merson shared his excitement about participating in the show, vowing to give it his all.
On being paired with Karen, the show's longest-serving pro, he said: "Yeah, I'm well happy. So pleased. You've put the two oldest together... and I'm one of them!"
Paul might be facing some stiff competition, as JLS sensation JB Gill has emerged as a front-runner for the coveted Glitterball trophy. Bookies are giving him favourable odds of 7/2 to clinch the title, with Love Island's Tasha Ghouri not far off at odds of 4/1.
JB is set to light up the dance floor with Amy Dowden, marking her inspiring return to the BBC hit after her battle with cancer.
Overjoyed by her return, the Strictly professional dancer expressed: "I'm delighted, it just feels like my first year all over again. I just want JB to have the best time and fall in love with dancing."