Former All Saints singer Melanie Blatt has revealed she felt profoundly out of her element while filming the upcoming Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special. The 50-year-old star described the experience as "deeply uncomfortable" yet ultimately "amazing" during a candid television interview.
Stepping Far From Her Comfort Zone
Appearing on ITV's Lorraine on Tuesday 23 December 2025, Blatt spoke openly about her intensive ballroom training. She told host Christine Lampard that the process was unlike anything she had ever attempted. "Out of the comfort zone was the smallest thing you could call it," Blatt confessed. "I was deeply uncomfortable throughout it, but it was an amazing experience."
Blatt, who is known for embracing challenges, explained her personal mantra played a part. "That is my number one thing that I say to myself every morning, 'You need to challenge yourself'. I really did that." She was paired with professional dancer Kai Widdrington for the festive edition, which was pre-recorded earlier in December.
Awe of the Professionals and Festive Routines
The singer expressed immense admiration for the show's professional dancers, stating Widdrington was "amazing." She added, "It's not until you try to dance like them [that you see] how inadequate I am, and how extra amazing they are. The bounce, how do you jump like that?"
For the Christmas Day episode, Blatt and Widdrington will perform an American Smooth to The Pussycat Dolls' version of "Santa Baby." They will compete against five other celebrity and pro pairings in a bid to impress the judges and win the special.
The Full Christmas Special Line-Up
The festive episode features a diverse group of stars from television, music, and sport. The complete list of competing pairs includes:
- Scarlett Moffatt & Vito Coppola: Cha Cha to Cher's "DJ Play A Christmas Song."
- Babatunde Aléshé & Nancy Xu: Charleston to "Santa Claus is Coming to Town."
- Brian McFadden & Michelle Tsiakkas: Jive to "Run Run Rudolph" by Kelly Clarkson.
- Jodie Ounsley & Neil Jones: Street Commercial to "Red Christmas" by Kylie Cantrall.
- Nicholas Bailey & Luba Mushtuk: Viennese Waltz to "It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year."
This special holds added significance as it marks the final appearance of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman in the famous ballroom, following their emotional send-off during the 2025 final on Saturday 20 December. That final saw Karen Carney and Carlos Gu lift the Glitterball Trophy.
The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special will air on BBC One and iPlayer at 5.30pm on Christmas Day.
