Strictly Come Dancing professional Nikita Kuzmin has broken his silence on the now-infamous backstage clash with his celebrity partner, former EastEnders star Danny Dyer, describing the experience as "tough" but ultimately a learning curve.
The incident, which occurred during the 2023 series, saw tensions boil over behind the scenes, prompting intervention from head judge Shirley Ballas. While the footage never aired, rumours have swirled for months about the nature of the disagreement.
The Moment Things Came to a Head
In a candid new interview, Kuzmin admitted the pressure of the competition got to both of them. "It was a tough moment," the dancer confessed. "We're both passionate people who want to do well, and sometimes that passion spills over."
He revealed that Ballas, along with fellow professional Amy Dowden, played a crucial role in mediating the situation. Their intervention helped calm the atmosphere and allowed the pair to refocus on their performance.
From Clash to Camaraderie
Despite the friction, Kuzmin was quick to praise Dyer, highlighting the actor's dedication and work ethic. "Danny is a legend," Kuzmin stated. "He gave it his all every single day. We had a blast most of the time, and that one moment shouldn't overshadow the fun we had."
The professional dancer emphasised that such intense moments are part and parcel of the high-stakes Strictly environment. The immense pressure to perfect routines in a short time frame can lead to frayed nerves.
The Strictly Pressure Cooker
Kuzmin's revelations shed light on the immense pressure faced by celebrities and professionals alike on the hit BBC show. The gruelling rehearsal schedules, combined with the scrutiny of live television, create a potent mix that sometimes leads to conflict.
This incident underscores the importance of the show's support system, from the producers to the fellow dancers, in ensuring partnerships can overcome hurdles and deliver show-stopping performances for the millions of viewers at home.
