Gladiators star Nitro has confessed that receiving harsh criticism on Strictly Come Dancing was a uniquely brutal experience, describing it as feeling like 'the worst thing in the world'.
From Dance Floor to Arena: A Tale of Two Competitions
The athlete, whose real name is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, is set to return to screens this weekend for the third series of the revived Gladiators on BBC One. The 37-year-old sprinter and TV personality, who competed on the most recent run of the celebrity dance show, compared the two high-profile BBC contests.
When asked which was more competitive, Nitro told the Radio Times that Gladiators involved clearer 'gamesmanship'. However, he emphasised the psychological challenge of Strictly. 'Strictly can dress you down,' he explained. 'You have to be strong. You have to be able to take the feedback. If you make a mistake, it can feel like the worst thing in the world.'
He highlighted the mental resilience required to navigate the dance competition's process while staying true to oneself.
Gladiators Tease 'Is This Safe?' New Series
As the show prepares for its return, Nitro's fellow Gladiators have offered tantalising glimpses of what fans can expect. Sabre, played by Sheli McCoy, 37, teased new games and a returning classic that prompted safety concerns. 'I was like, “You want us to what? Is that safe?”' she revealed.
Other Gladiators noted the increased calibre of the contenders. Steel, aka Zack George, observed that the challengers are 'bigger, faster, stronger' this time and had clearly studied the games, leading to a marked difference in their strategy.
Fire, portrayed by Montell Douglas, expressed her desire for full-throttle competition, while Fury, played by Jodie Ounsley, admitted the one thing she dreads is injury. 'Seeing your friends or yourself getting injured,' she said, acknowledging it as an inherent risk in the tough physical contest.
Nitro's Emotional Strictly Exit
The interview follows Nitro's emotional departure from Strictly Come Dancing in November last year. He was eliminated after a dance-off against La Voix, despite the support of his professional partner Karen Hauer.
Reflecting on his exit on Strictly: It Takes Two, Harry fought back tears, thanking the entire production team for making the experience 'a dream come true'. He shared a touching moment about his daughter, stating he wanted to show that 'no matter what happens, there's always a silver lining'.
Gladiators returns for its highly anticipated third series on Saturday at 5:45pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
