Strictly star tells BBC Morning Live presenter 'don't rub it in' after line-up phone call

Strictly Come Dancing's Neil Jones told BBC Morning Live presenter Helen Skelton to not "rub it in" as she pointed out he doesn't always get a partner on the BBC competition. The professional dancer has been confirmed as part of the 2024 line-up alongside the lovely Amy Dowden, you can read more on this here.

However, being announced in the line-up doesn't always mean you get paired with a celebrity, something Neil knows all too well. Neil joined Strictly in 2016 but in his eight years on the show has only had two partners, he danced with Alex Scott in 2019 and actress Nina Wadia in 2021.

But after missing out on the line-up in 2023, Neil is hopeful that 2024 will be his year. Congratulating her Morning Live co-star, Helen said: "You're in the first team at Strictly, the announcement came out yesterday. Back again, congratulations, that must be a great call because it's the biggest show on television, an army of fans, you're part of it."

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Speaking about the phone call, Neil admitted: "Actually, when you get the phone call and they're talking to you, you're like, 'just tell me, stop with the hello, how are you, just tell me'."

"You don't always get a partner," Helen then said, to which Neil replied: "No, don't rub it in".

"That would mean a lot right?" Helen then pressed, to which Neil said: "This year could be my year to win it, I just need a partner."

"We'll keep our fingers crossed," Helen's co-host Gethin Jones said before Helen pointed out: "I think you've got some strong competition, there is a face we are very excited to see back."

Gethin said: "Yeah, and that is Amy Dowden. You remember that she was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, she's been so brave and open about the challenges she's faced but she's always said she can't wait to get back on that dance floor and she will be there, hopefully with a partner this year doing her thing, representing Wales."

"Don't claim her," Helen joked, before adding: "But she's so dedicated to her dancing, as are you all, that when she got that diagnosis, the thought of missing out on Strictly really haunted her, so everyone is delighted to see her back. Wonderful woman, wonderful dancer, wonderful family."

"She is brilliant," Neil responded. You can keep up to date with the latest TV and showbiz news by signing up to the newsletter here.