Strictly Come Dancing viewers were left puzzled on Monday evening when the show's spin-off, It Takes Two, proceeded without its expected guest, recently eliminated contestant Vicky Pattison.
The Mystery of the Missing Interview
Following her emotional exit from the main competition over the weekend, it is a long-standing tradition for the ousted celebrity to give their first post-elimination interview on the Monday edition of It Takes Two. However, host Fleur East simply informed the audience that Vicky and her professional partner, Kai Widdrington, would instead be appearing later in the week, offering no further details.
The Mirror can now exclusively reveal the reason behind the Geordie Shore star's absence. A source close to Vicky has confirmed that her non-appearance was not a last-minute snub but a pre-arranged agreement with the BBC.
A Pre-Approved Birthday Celebration
The source explained, "Vicky had it pre-agreed that she was going to celebrate her birthday with some friends and family. She has hardly seen them the last few months because of training so it was a wonderful celebration but nothing too crazy."
The BBC gave her permission to have the time around her birthday off and, as a result, her interview is now scheduled for Wednesday. The arrangement was reportedly all settled in advance, ensuring no breach of protocol.
Over the weekend, the reality TV star, who turned 38, shared a clip from her birthday party, which coincided with the broadcast of her elimination. The video showed an emotional Vicky blowing out candles surrounded by loved ones.
Emotional Aftermath and Fan Reaction
Vicky's departure from Strictly was a tearful affair. She had found herself in the dance-off against EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal, who subsequently appeared on It Takes Two in her place. Balvinder described the experience as "horrible", stating how difficult it was to compete against a close friend for a spot in the coveted Blackpool special.
Reflecting on her own journey, Vicky had told presenter Tess Daly, "It was so lovely while it lasted... I didn't think I'd get past week one." She also paid a heartfelt tribute to her partner, Kai, apologising for not getting him to Blackpool but saying, "I feel like I've won just by having you as my partner."
Fans expressed their disappointment online, with many branding her exit the "worst result ever" and pointing out the particular sting of missing the Blackpool week after her tango triumph the previous Saturday. Some viewers also felt her performance was let down by the song choice, staging, and outfit.
Despite the setback, Vicky maintained a positive outlook, highlighting her personal achievement of dancing sober while managing her anxiety. Her fans continue to show immense support, praising her for an incredible run on the show.
