Chris McCausland: Pioneering Blind Contestant on Strictly Come Dancing Discover the inspiring journey of Chris McCausland, the trailblazing first blind contestant on the popular dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing. Chris has captivated audiences with his exceptional talent, resilience, and charisma, breaking barriers and redefining what it means to compete in a visually demanding environment. His participation not only showcases his impressive dance skills but also highlights the...
Topics covered
Comedian Chris McCausland has shared his experience as a contestant on the renowned BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. Known for his sense of humor, Chris made history as the first blind participant in the show’s long run, showcasing his exceptional talent and inspiring many, particularly those with disabilities.
In a recent appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Chris revealed that he had limited knowledge of the show before joining. He described Strictly as an endeavor that pushed him far beyond his comfort zone. His candid recounting of the intense and often daunting experience of learning to dance resonated with the audience.
Overcoming the odds
At 22, Chris lost his sight due to a condition called retinitis pigmentosa. Despite this significant challenge, he has built a successful career as a comedian, with his participation in Strictly Come Dancing adding to his list of achievements.
He reflected on three pivotal moments in his life: losing his sight, becoming a comedian, and his unforgettable experience on the dance floor.
In his memoir, Keep Laughing, Chris expressed that discussing his blindness has become an engaging topic for him. Instead of avoiding it, he found it to be an interesting part of his story. He noted that the challenge of being a comedian was more complex to convey in a distinctive manner, highlighting his growth and acceptance of his situation.
Inspiring others
Chris has consistently highlighted the importance of representation for individuals with disabilities in mainstream media. He believes that his role on such a prominent show sends a significant message to others facing physical challenges. “It’s an honor to represent those of us with disabilities on a major television platform,” he stated in an interview earlier this year.
His remarks serve as a source of hope for many, illustrating that individuals can achieve greatness regardless of their circumstances. However, he humorously added, “I do have someone else drive when I go on tour,” reflecting his practical approach to life as a blind individual.
The physical demands of dancing
One of the biggest surprises for Chris during Strictly Come Dancing was the demanding physical training involved. He described the grueling schedule of eight hours a day, six days a week, as “relentless.” Chris noted the surprising frequency of injuries among contestants, attributing it to the rigorous nature of the dance routines.
“Doing the jive felt like I had been kicked by a mule for a week,” he humorously recounted, also observing the toll that ballroom dancing can take on untrained knees. His insights into the physicality of the competition highlight the immense dedication required to succeed on the show.
Friendship and collaboration
Throughout the competition, Chris developed a close relationship with his professional partner, Dianne Buswell. Together, they achieved success by winning the coveted Glitterball Trophy and continued their collaboration after the show. The duo launched a podcast titled Winning Isn’t Everything, where they share their experiences and insights on life and dancing.
Despite busy schedules, Chris and Dianne maintain their friendship, which flourished during their time on the show. This camaraderie exemplifies the supportive relationships that can emerge in competitive environments.
In a recent appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Chris revealed that he had limited knowledge of the show before joining. He described Strictly as an endeavor that pushed him far beyond his comfort zone. His candid recounting of the intense and often daunting experience of learning to dance resonated with the audience.0
