Chris McCausland, a contestant on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, has revealed that he did not initially notice the condition that gradually led to his blindness. The comedian and actor, aged 47, lost his sight at 22 due to a hereditary condition called retinitis pigmentosa. Despite the condition affecting other family members, including his grandmother and mother, Chris explained that the gradual loss of his eyesight went unnoticed by him as it happened slowly since birth.
Speaking in an interview with The i last year, Chris shared how his deteriorating eyesight impacted his studies in software engineering at university in London. The outdated technology at the time forced him to switch career paths. A fan of comedy legends like Jack Dee, Lee Evans, and Eddie Izzard, Chris decided to pursue a career in comedy, aiming to challenge stereotypes and perceptions. He emphasized his reluctance to focus solely on blind-related jokes on stage, aiming instead to address his discomfort and insecurities about his condition.
Retinitis pigmentosa is a rare group of eye diseases that affect the retina, causing a gradual breakdown of cells and resulting in vision loss. Although there is currently no cure for RP, vision aids and rehabilitation programs can assist individuals in maximizing their remaining vision. Chris, now partnered with professional dancer Dianne Buswell on Strictly Come Dancing, has highlighted the lack of genetic testing for his condition, expressing concern about his daughter, Sophie, carrying the same condition.
Symptoms of retinitis pigmentosa include night vision loss, difficulty adapting to dim light, and eventual loss of peripheral and central vision. Chris McCausland’s journey from software engineering to comedy sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments and the importance of raising awareness about such conditions. His story serves as an inspiration for overcoming obstacles and pursuing one’s passions despite adversity.