Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Narinder Kaur has revealed how comedian Tom Skinner's heartfelt gesture on the BBC show left her deeply moved. The ex-Countdown star, who appeared on the dance competition in 2004, spoke about Skinner's unexpected tribute during his recent appearance.
A Touching Moment on the Dance Floor
During his performance, Skinner - known for his work on The Mash Report - made a special mention of Kaur, calling her "the original Punjabi princess of Strictly". The reference caught many viewers by surprise, including Kaur herself.
Kaur's Emotional Response
"I was genuinely taken aback," Kaur admitted. "To be remembered after all these years, especially by someone like Tom, was incredibly touching." The broadcaster, who now works as a relationship counsellor, described how messages from friends and fans came flooding in after the episode aired.
The Legacy of Strictly's First South Asian Contestant
As the first South Asian woman to compete on Strictly Come Dancing, Kaur paved the way for greater diversity on the show. Her appearance in 2004 marked a significant moment in British television history, though she acknowledges the journey hasn't always been easy.
"Representation matters," Kaur reflected. "When I was on the show, there weren't many faces like mine on primetime TV. To see how far we've come is wonderful."
Skinner's Impact
Skinner's nod to Kaur has sparked conversations about the importance of recognising trailblazers in entertainment. The comedian, who was eliminated in week three of the current series, has been praised for his thoughtful acknowledgement of those who came before him.
Kaur concluded: "Moments like these show how powerful television can be in bringing people together and celebrating our shared history."
