Chris McCausland, the 47-year-old comedian, has been making waves on Strictly Come Dancing, becoming the show’s first-ever blind contestant. Known for his wit, McCausland has managed to impress both the judges and the audience with his remarkable performances alongside professional dancer Dianne Buswell. Their partnership has successfully taken them through to week eight of the competition, with hopes of securing their spot in the coveted Blackpool special.
Despite the challenges posed by his blindness, Chris has shared his ambitions for Strictly, emphasizing the positive message he strives to convey through his dances. "I am here on Strictly to try to show...that more can be possible than many might think," he expressed. His spirited performance last week, which included tangoing to KISS's classic Rock and Roll All Nite, highlighted his determination and ability to captivate the audience, scoring 29 out of 40 points from the judges.
McCausland's emotional connection to dance has not gone unnoticed, as he openly addresses the motivations behind his participation. He is not only performing for entertainment; he aims to create awareness and inspire others facing similar challenges. Writing about his upcoming performance, he mentioned the significance of the song they would perform, John Lennon's Instant Karma! (We All Shine On), as one conveying the message of mutual respect and kindness. He articulated, "This song fits my purpose perfectly, to try to show we can all shine as brightly as each other if we only allow ourselves and each other to do so."
Interestingly, Chris's decision to join Strictly was met with concern from his family, particularly his 11-year-old daughter, Sophie. He described how she feared for his safety, jokingly warning him he might fall off the stage and hurt himself. “She was joking, 'Oh yeah, you will probably fall off the stage and break your leg,’” Chris recounted, emphasizing the blend of humor and worry his daughter expressed. Yet even with such fears, she has gradually come around to support him fully.
Despite initial hesitations to join the show, Chris is now considered a serious contender, even labeled by bookmakers as the favorite to win. His humor, combined with impressive dance moves, has garnered him significant public support. He expressed, "It has been worth facing it," referring to his initial reluctance to take on such a demanding and public challenge.
Reflecting on the intensity of the rehearsals, Chris admitted the training sessions have been extraordinarily taxing. “Training nearly killed me,” he said jokingly, yet it is this very exhaustion and the thrill of performance he finds rewarding. He believes he’s grown from this experience and feels empowered to face his fears head-on.
McCausland's determination extends beyond personal triumphs, as he recognizes his role as a representative for those with disabilities. Speaking about his blindness due to the genetic disorder retinitis pigmentosa, he stated, "Representation is a good thing, no matter what group you are representing.” His goal is not only to entertain but also to send out messages of inclusion and resilience.
Although this is Chris's first time on Strictly, he acknowledges the unique nature of the competition compared to other entertainment formats. Unlike other shows, he cannot rely on visual elements. "If someone asked me if I want to do a panel show, I will just go back and listen to it...with Strictly, I just didn’t have a clue – I have been learning as I have been going.” This adaptability speaks to his character and his commitment to make the most out of this opportunity.
Chris has been receiving vast support not only from his family but also from his partner Dianne Buswell, who has expressed admiration for his strength and talent. She noted how Sophie was “so happy” to watch Chris dance during training, demonstrating how family involvement has uplifted Chris's spirits throughout this challenging yet rewarding experience.
On the nights leading up to performances, Chris often feels the anxiety of wanting to perform well for his family and audience, but as he continues to advance, it’s clear he’s evolved from nervous performer to confident entertainer. Amidst the thrills of competition, he also highlighted the importance of ensuring joy remains at the center of it all. "I’m hoping to actually be able to smile this time,” he said about their upcoming performance.
Looking forward, Chris is savoring each moment on the dance floor, focusing on the friendships made and lessons learned throughout his dance venture. His poignant performances are not just about the dancing; they embody the spirit of tenacity, reflecting his life and the experiences he has embraced.
Overall, Chris McCausland's time on Strictly Come Dancing exemplifies the idea of confronting one’s fears, challenging stereotypes, and promoting positivity. With every twirl, he breaks down barriers and brings hope not just to his viewers, but also to himself and his family. His remarkable spirit has undoubtedly left audiences eager for what will come next, truly embodying the notion of shining brightly no matter the odds.