Sixteen years after his stint on the show, a former Strictly Come Dancing star has made explosive claims, alleging that BBC producers deliberately manipulated a romance narrative that contributed to the breakdown of his real-life relationship.
The 'Stitched Up' Allegation
Ricky Whittle, the 45-year-old actor best known for his role in Hollyoaks, competed on the hit BBC dance show back in 2009. Partnered with professional dancer Natalie Lowe, he eventually became the series runner-up, losing the glitterball trophy to sports presenter Chris Hollins.
Now, Whittle has broken his silence, telling the Daily Mail that he felt "totally stitched up" by the corporation. He claims producers intentionally crafted a storyline portraying him and Lowe as the show's "romantic couple," a narrative he insists was fabricated.
A Real Relationship Damaged
At the time of his Strictly participation, Whittle was in a relationship with fellow Hollyoaks actress Carly Stenson, who had publicly supported him in the competition's early stages. However, their romance faltered, seemingly falling victim to the infamous Strictly curse.
Whittle now asserts that the BBC's manipulation was a key factor. He recalls how producers would ask him leading questions about his dance partner during video interviews, such as, "Was seeing her the best part of your day?" His positive but professional responses about Lowe being "amazing" were then edited together with soft music to create a romantic montage for the broadcast.
"They knew what they were doing," Whittle stated. "Other couples were the ones who argued, but Natalie and I were the romantic couple."
Life After the Strictly Ballroom
In the years since the show, the paths of those involved have diverged significantly. Ricky Whittle moved to the United States in 2012 and now lives in Los Angeles, building a career with roles in projects like Netflix's Nappily Ever After and the film Land Of The Bad.
His former girlfriend, Carly Stenson, found love with actor Danny Mac, who also later appeared on Strictly in 2016. The couple married in 2017 and now have two children together. Interestingly, when Mac was asked to join the show, Stenson revealed she had no fears about the so-called curse, even giving him her full blessing to participate.
The BBC has declined to comment on Whittle's allegations when approached for a statement.
