Will Mellor says he joined 'Strictly Come Dancing' to deal with grief

Will Mellor has admitted that he signed up to Strictly Come Dancing to deal with his grief after his dad died in 2020.

The Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps actor is set to appear on the new series of the reality show, the premiere of which was delayed because of the Queen's death.

Talking to MailOnline, Mellor said he has agreed to do the show to help deal with his grief following his dad's death: "I've been asked before, it's just the right timing.

Read more: Will Mellor says BBC rejected 'Two Pints Of Lager' spin-off

"I would generally say no to these things because I was always worried about what other people would think and what they would say. But then I lost my dad in 2020 and everything changed."

He added: "It crippled me and I just thought I've got to grab life and do things. It really changed my mindset."

Mellor, who has also starred in Hollyoaks, additionally said that he was appearing on Strictly as an ode to his mum as it's her "favourite" show.

He said: "She's had the worst time recently so I just thought we need some positivity in our lives. She lost her husband, brother-in-law and sister-in-law all in the space of a year so I am doing this for me but also for her."

Mellor has previously discussed how he was unable to comfort his family following his dad's death in 2020 due to the social distancing guidelines that were enforced due to Covid-19.

Other stars hitting the dancefloor on this year's Strictly Come Dancing include pop legend Matt Goss, Coronation Street star Kym Marsh and former Arsenal captain Tony Adams.

Strictly Come Dancing premieres on BBC One on 23 September.

Watch below: Who is Strictly's Will Mellor?