Saturday night’s air is electric with anticipation, and for Vicky Pattison, the nerves are running high. The 37-year-old television personality, best known for her breakout role on Geordie Shore, is about to step onto one of the UK’s most dazzling stages: the Strictly Come Dancing live show. It’s a dream she’s held for years, and now, as the lights are about to come up, she’s letting her fans into the whirlwind of emotions that come with such a moment.
Just hours before the September 27, 2025, premiere, Vicky took to Instagram to share a deeply personal post with her 5.5 million followers. Accompanying a throwback photo—her eyes brimming with tears from the day she learned she’d been cast—Vicky wrote, “I’m lying in bed freshly spray tanned and absolutely RIDDLED with nerves and anxiety about tomorrow’s first live show just scrolling through my phone and I came across this picture… It’s from the day my agent called me and told me I’d got @bbcstrictly.” According to the Mirror and Wales Online, this candid admission struck a chord with fans and fellow celebrities alike.
For Vicky, being part of Strictly isn’t just another television gig—it’s the culmination of years of fandom and admiration for the show. “As someone who has watched the show for years and is a huge fan… I honestly just couldn’t believe they’d want someone like me. In fact, I still can’t,” she confessed in her post. The vulnerability in her words is palpable, and it’s clear she’s still pinching herself at the opportunity.
Tonight, she’ll be performing a Cha Cha to Ella Eyre’s “Best of My Love,” partnered with professional dancer Kai Widdrington, who at 30 brings his own brand of calm and encouragement to the duo. The dance, known for its vibrant energy and quick footwork, is no small feat for a first live performance. Yet, Vicky’s focus is as much on her emotional journey as it is on the technical challenge. “When the nerves ramp up a notch tomorrow which they undoubtedly will, I’m going to remind myself of this moment… how unbelievably lucky I felt to be taking part in such an amazing show, to be learning a new skill and gaining a new family too… all these lovely things,” she reflected.
But it’s not just about gratitude. Vicky is determined to make the most of this experience, despite the anxiety. “I don’t want to look back on this experience and just remember how scared I was all the time… I want my memories to be full of joy, happiness and the twinkliest of toes,” she wrote. Her message to fans was clear: “So I’m going to try my absolute best tomorrow to put on a good show for the judges and everyone watching in the audience and at home… and I’m going to try my hardest to just be grateful to be taking part…”
In a moment of self-awareness, Vicky added with a touch of humor, “But please just be patient with me on the nerves front please and sorry in advance if I cry… I’m a f***y..” She punctuated the post with crying laughing emojis, a reminder that even in the face of nerves, her trademark wit remains intact.
The outpouring of support was immediate and heartfelt. Strictly alumni, celebrities, and fans flooded the comments section with encouragement. Giovanna Fletcher, author and podcast host, wrote, “You’re going to be amazing. Enjoy the ride and remember that the dance floor is a celebration of all the hard work you’ve put in over the last couple of weeks. Love you! Xxx.” Pete Wicks, a former contestant and close friend, chimed in with, “You got this. I’ll be front row.” Ruth Langsford, another past participant, offered sage advice: “Remember the nerves well!! Nerves are good…shows you care. Try to let go and enjoy yourself. Good luck.”
Even those outside the Strictly bubble joined the chorus. Kate Ferdinand, television personality and friend, sent her best wishes: “Good luck darling, you’ll be amazing! Like always x.” Angela Scanlon, who co-hosts the Get A Grip podcast with Vicky, simply said, “Love you chicken.” The warmth and camaraderie were unmistakable, and for Vicky, it was clear that she wasn’t facing her debut alone.
Perhaps most touching was the message from her dance partner, Kai Widdrington. In response to her post, he wrote, “My wonderful partner. It’s my pleasure to be able to take to that dance floor with you tomorrow night.” Vicky replied with gratitude, “Thank you partner… I’m so grateful for you.” This exchange captured the spirit of partnership and mutual respect that Strictly is famous for—where the journey is as much about personal growth and connection as it is about competition.
Of course, the Strictly stage is no stranger to nerves. The pressure of live television, the glare of the spotlights, and the knowledge that millions are watching can rattle even the most seasoned performers. For Vicky, who’s been in the public eye for over a decade, this challenge feels uniquely daunting. Yet, her willingness to share her vulnerability has only endeared her more to fans, many of whom see a bit of themselves in her candidness and self-doubt.
The excitement surrounding the first live show extends beyond Vicky’s personal journey. Strictly Come Dancing, now in its latest season, continues to be a cultural phenomenon in the UK, drawing viewers from all walks of life. The show’s enduring appeal lies in its blend of glitz, competition, and human stories—stories like Vicky’s, where overcoming nerves and embracing new challenges take center stage.
As the curtain rises tonight, all eyes will be on Vicky and Kai as they step onto the dance floor. The Cha Cha, with its syncopated rhythms and bold movements, will test their partnership and showcase the weeks of hard work they’ve poured into rehearsals. For Vicky, it’s more than a dance—it’s a leap into the unknown, a chance to prove to herself and her supporters that she belongs among the Strictly stars.
And as she takes that first step, buoyed by messages of love and encouragement, Vicky Pattison is determined to savor every moment. “I want my memories to be full of joy, happiness and the twinkliest of toes,” she said. With her heart on her sleeve and her fans behind her, tonight’s performance promises to be one to remember.
