In a candid revelation that has stunned Strictly Come Dancing fans, Balvinder Sopal has declared her time on the glittering dancefloor is over for good. The EastEnders icon, who captivated audiences as Suki Panesar, has shut down any possibility of a return to the BBC juggernaut.
The actress delivered her verdict with finality during an appearance on BBC's Morning Live. When probed by hosts about pulling on her dance shoes again, her response was unequivocal. "No. I'm done with it. I'm done with it," she stated, leaving no room for speculation.
Sopal, who was partnered with professional dancer Kai Widdrington in the 2021 series, didn't hold back on the reasons behind her decision. She painted a vivid picture of the show's relentless demands, describing it as a "completely different kind of exhaustion" that pushed her to her absolute limits.
The Gruelling Reality Behind the Glamour
For those who see only the sequins and smiles on Saturday night, Sopal offered a glimpse behind the curtain. "It is the hardest thing I've ever done, physically and mentally," she confessed. The intense schedule was a brutal shock to the system, far surpassing any previous work experience.
Her description of the training regime was particularly telling. She recounted the sheer physical pain, mentioning her feet were "so swollen" that she could only wear crocs, a stark contrast to the elegant heels worn on screen. The commitment required was all-consuming, dominating every waking moment for the duration of the competition.
A Fond Farewell, But A Firm Decision
Despite the hardships, Sopal's reflections weren't all negative. She expressed immense pride in her achievement and the unique experience itself, calling it "amazing." She even managed to find humour in the pain, joking with hosts that she would need to "get the Deep Heat out" just to revisit her old dance routines.
However, the memory of that exhaustion has firmly cemented her decision. Her message to fans hoping for a comeback was clear and direct. While grateful for the opportunity, she has officially hung up her Strictly dance card for good, choosing to cherish the memory from the sidelines.
