Kiss FM host Tyler West has opened up about witnessing a fatal stabbing as a teenager, growing up on a 'racist council estate' in South London, and how he overcame trauma to become a Strictly Come Dancing star and find love.
West, 27, recalled seeing a man killed with a 12-inch kitchen knife outside his home when he was 14. 'The man lost his life in the middle of the road,' he said. The incident left him struggling with mental health difficulties, unable to use a knife and fork, and housebound for two years.
Determined to change his family's circumstances, West returned to school at 16, took up handball, and later became a youth support worker. A CBBC interview led to a guest presenting slot, launching his media career. He went on to host MTV News and Kiss FM, and in 2022 competed on Strictly with Dianne Buswell, reaching week nine.
On the show, he met his partner, EastEnders actress Molly Rainford, 23. The couple now live together in London and continue dancing. 'When the ads come on TV we’re up there dancing,' West said. 'At the end of the show they say “Keep dancing”, and we took it seriously!'
West has also become an ambassador for WaterAid, saying the charity gave him 'a deeper purpose to use my platform for good.' Reflecting on his journey, he said: 'I’m proof where you start doesn’t determine where you end up.'
