Strictly Come Dancing contestant Jamie Borthwick has hinted at a health issue affecting his performance in the competition after his debut dance. The EastEnders star, who won last year’s Strictly Christmas special, took to the dance floor with his professional partner Michelle Tsiakkas on Saturday night. Their Viennese Waltz to “Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone earned them a mid-table score of 23 points, placing them midway up the leaderboard after the first episode.
During their performance, host Tess Daly noted the number of spins in their routine. Jamie responded, “It didn’t do the vertigo much good,” indicating a struggle with vertigo, a condition where one feels like everything is spinning, more severe than just feeling dizzy. According to the NHS, episodes of vertigo can last from seconds to hours, days, or even months.
The judges also observed Jamie’s difficulties with dizziness. Head judge Shirley Ballas commented on his imbalance during spins, while Craig Revel Horwood praised his enthusiasm but pointed out some issues with his performance being “a bit jagged throughout.” Jamie expressed feeling ‘humbled’ by his first week on Strictly to host Claudia Winkleman.
Addressing any potential romantic involvement, Jamie clarified that he and Michelle share a platonic relationship akin to family. Michelle is in a committed relationship with fellow dancer Simone Arena, and Jamie emphasized their connection as sisterly and supportive. The so-called “Strictly curse” would not apply in their case due to their close bond.
For those experiencing vertigo, the NHS recommends several measures to alleviate symptoms, including lying still in a quiet, dark room, moving the head carefully, sitting down when feeling dizzy, and sleeping with the head slightly raised on pillows. These strategies can help manage the effects of vertigo and improve comfort during episodes.
Jamie’s candid revelation about his health condition adds a personal and relatable dimension to his Strictly journey, resonating with viewers and highlighting the challenges contestants may face beyond the glitz and glamour of the dance floor. As the competition progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how Jamie navigates his health issue while continuing to give his all in each performance on Strictly Come Dancing.