Strictly Come Dancing contestant John Nellis has revealed that his appearance on the BBC show has won him a new fanbase: older women. The YouTuber, known for his football content, said grannies now call him “gorgeous” and that his channel has grown by another million subscribers since joining the competition nearly two months ago.
Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, Nellis said his usual audience is teenage boys and men in their 20s, but the show has broadened his appeal. He noted that his female audience was around 30 or 40 percent before Strictly because he tries to make football videos everyone can watch. He also mentioned receiving messages about his foxtrot, with people calling it beautiful.
From Air Traffic Control to Ballroom
The 33-year-old once worked as an air traffic controller before quitting to pursue football content creation full time. His videos, which include challenges, quizzes, and behind-the-scenes interviews with top players, have become a lucrative career. He has interviewed stars such as Harry Kane and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite his success online, Nellis admitted he used to dismiss celebrities who praised Strictly for bringing people together. However, seeing the excitement his performances have generated in his hometown in Northern Ireland changed his perspective. He described a “real moment of realisation” and acknowledged that none of his YouTube videos have had the same impact as his Strictly appearances.
Nerves and Expectations
Nellis said meeting Ronaldo was the only time he was genuinely starstruck, but dancing makes him nervous in a different way. He described himself as “a bag of nerves” on Saturday. The pair scored 35 points last weekend for their tango, earning high praise from the judges and making him one of the bookies' favourites to win.
His initial goal was simply to avoid being the first celebrity eliminated. He told The Mirror: “I've definitely got messages to my family and friends saying, 'I just don't want to go out week one. That's the goal.' Well, week two. I was like, 'I'd love to not be first out, but other than that, I have zero expectations.' Now, I’m just really happy to be here!”
Body Transformation and Family News
The demanding training schedule has led to Nellis shedding over a stone in weight. He said he is not injured, just fatigued, and joked about aiming for a six-pack. His professional partner Katya Jones has teased that he could eventually perform topless, though Nellis said he needs another month to get into shape.
Away from the dance floor, Nellis is preparing to welcome his first child with his wife Shannon in February. He already has a stepson, who he has been in his life since the boy was two. He admitted he has never done the “proper baby thing” and joked he should enjoy sleep while he can.
Nellis praised Jones, who won the Glitterball Trophy with Joe McFadden in 2017, for her creative vision. As he prepared to perform his salsa, he said his only goal was to give 110 percent, adding: “The creative vision is all Katya. Everything is Katya.”
