with us. He had a tough year. He’s American and
doesn’t have any family over here. He was quite
lonely and said it’s been really nice living with a
family. We even had Thanksgiving together. He
said it’s like living in a five-star hotel, because
we kept doing everything for him!
What about your fitness, did you take any
extra steps to get into shape?
It’s not something I’m overly focused on.
I have a show in London which I’ve been
training for with a personal trainer anyway,
so I’ve definitely toned up. In terms of food,
I’m eating so much more than I normally
would. I’m feeling ravenous 24/7.
Let’s talk judges...
I’m most nervous about John. We worked
together on shows about 10 or 15 years
ago, so I’ve got history with him.
He knows that I can be a bit
of a daredevil, so I think he’ll
try to push me. I might have
to explain that I’m not being
lazy, I’m just scared!‘I’M NOT BEING LAZY, I’M JUST SCARED’
S
he sings, dances and acts – but how will
Denise do on the ice? The 46-year-old
may be no stranger to performing, but
she’s still feeling nervous ahead of
her latest gig. Putting her fears down to age
and parenthood, the mum-of-one, who’s in
a relationship with Eddie Boxshall, 45, admits
she’s not as daring as she used to be. She
also reveals how lovely it was having her
pro partner Matt Evers live with her...So, Denise, you made it to the Strictly
final – has that stood you in good stead?
I think being trained as a dancer is a bit of a
hindrance. I point my toes all the time, which isDenise van Outen
talks about bubbling
with her pro partner
and feeling afraid ofher latest challenge
the worst thing you can do on the ice. I’m forever
hitting my toe picks and going flying. There’s not
been a session where I haven’t fallen over.
Are you battered and bruised, then?
I’m covered in bruises and my knees are
like balloons.
Do the lifts scare you?
Yes, and I think that’s got a lot to do with getting
older and being a mum. I’m much more cautious
now. I was a different person when I did Strictly
[in 2012]. I was much more daring back then.
How do you cope with the nerves?
I try to go into a bit of a zone in my head. I do
worry my legs will turn to jelly but I just want to
enjoy it really. It should feel fun.
How are you feeling about the headbanger?
I can’t do it because I’m too tall. To be
honest, I wouldn’t even try. It’s not for
me. Matt and I have had trouble with
our lifts because I’m so long.
Speaking of Matt, you moved
him in...
It’s been so lovely having himWith boyfriend
Eddie