How to win over Strictly audiencespublished at 18:40 BST
18:40 BST
Guy Lambert
Culture reporter
Image caption,
Oti Mabuse and Bill Bailey won the Glitterball Trophy in Series 18
When it comes to winning over voters, nothing beats an underdog story.
Just look at last year’s inspirational winner, Chris McCausland – the first blind contestant to take part in Strictly.
Every week he won the nation’s hearts with his dancing alongside partner Dianne Buswell, eventually being crowned champions.
Then there’s the contestant who improves week after week.
Enter Series 18 winner, Bill Bailey. He was one of the older contestants that year, but Bailey surprised everyone by proving to be a capable dancer.
His street dance to Rapper’s Delight by the Sugar Hill Gang was a turning point, showing just how hard he was working to learn difficult routines. It all paid off when he won the Glitterball Trophy with partner Oti Mabuse.
And then there’s the contestant who just loves to have fun.
Most of us can’t tell our left foot from our right, so it’s always appreciated when you see that on Strictly. The more relatable you are, the better.
Of course, it can help to be able to dance – but who really cares if your tango is a little out of time if you’re clearly having an absolute ball?