Architectural guru George Clarke has pulled back the curtain on his painful Strictly Come Dancing experience, revealing the brutal reality behind the glittering BBC competition that left him physically and emotionally battered.
The 49-year-old presenter, best known for Channel 4's Amazing Spaces, confessed that his brief stint on the 2021 series was far from the glamorous affair viewers see on screen. "It was brutal, absolutely brutal," Clarke admitted during a candid interview.
The Physical Toll of Strictly Stardom
Clarke, who was partnered with professional dancer Karen Hauer, described the intense physical demands that left him struggling to function. "I was in bits," he revealed. "I couldn't walk for two days after the first show. I was crawling around my house."
The television personality painted a vivid picture of the behind-the-scenes struggle, highlighting the relentless training schedule and physical exhaustion that comes with competing in one of television's most demanding shows.
An Unexpected Exit
Despite his determination, Clarke became the second celebrity to be eliminated from the competition after facing CBBC star Rhys Stephenson in the dance-off. Their performance to Frank Sinatra's "That's Life" wasn't enough to impress the judges, ending his Strictly journey prematurely.
The architect-turned-TV presenter has since returned to his first love, currently hosting the sixth series of his successful show, George Clarke's Old House New Home, while also running his architecture and design practice.
The Silver Lining
Despite the physical ordeal, Clarke maintains a philosophical perspective on his Strictly experience. "It was an amazing thing to do," he reflected, acknowledging the unique opportunity the show provided.
His revelations offer a rare glimpse into the gruelling reality of celebrity dance competitions, reminding fans that beneath the sequins and sparkling smiles lies an incredibly challenging physical test that pushes celebrities to their absolute limits.
