During the most recent instalment of BBC’s It Takes Two, Strictly Come Dancing fans saw three of this year’s contestants speak to Fleur East ahead of Saturday’s show. This follows one contestant admitting they ‘blacked out’ during last weekend’s live show.

One contestant who saw their marks drop quite a bit from week one and week two was Karen Carney and her professional partner Carlos Gu, who performed a Tango.

However, before taking to the dancefloor, the former football star detailed a spinal condition she’s had since she was a child.

While speaking to Fleur East on the BBC Two show, the presenter asked: “How much of a challenge is that going to be for you in this competition?”

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Karen and Carlos were given a score of 20 for their Tango(Image: Guy Levy/BBC/PA)

She replied: “I’m not going to lie, it was hard. As Carlos mentioned, getting into frame is quite difficult. But, I’m happy, I’m healthy, and there’s been a lot of improvement, even from the launch show.”

According to the star, the condition has been affecting their health for months, sometimes leaving them unable to train or even get out of bed without pain. Though they did not disclose the exact diagnosis, insiders close to the show described it as a chronic illness that causes fatigue, dizziness, and muscle weakness — symptoms that can make the intense demands of Strictly almost impossible to manage.

“They push through rehearsals like a warrior,” one fellow dancer shared. “You’d never know they were suffering, because they refuse to let anyone down. But when the cameras stop, you can see how much it costs them.”

The dancer confessed that one of the hardest parts of living with the condition has been the constant pressure to appear perfect in the public eye. “People expect us to be invincible — to dance through anything,” they said.

“But I’m human. Some mornings, I wake up and I’m petrified. Not of the choreography, not of the judges — but of my own body betraying me.” Despite their fear, they said they continued performing out of love for the show, their celebrity partner, and the fans who have supported them throughout their career. “Dancing is my life,” they added quietly. “But it’s also what’s breaking me.”

Behind the scenes, production sources confirmed that medical staff have been working closely with the dancer to manage their symptoms and adjust their rehearsal schedule when possible.

The Strictly team, known for its strong sense of family, has reportedly rallied around them with unwavering support. “Everyone’s heart breaks for them,” said one crew member. “They’re one of the kindest, most dedicated people here. Nobody deserves to go through what they’re facing, especially while giving so much joy to others.”

The 38-year-old explained she’s seen improvement and wants to continue going with the process.

She added: “There are things that I won’t be able to do, but with his help (Carlos) and his support, we’ll get there.

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The football star confessed she’s ‘petrified’ of the elimination process on the BBC show(Image: BBC)

“Like I said, I’m happy, I’m healthy, and it doesn’t stop me from doing the dance.”

What makes this confession especially powerful is the raw vulnerability behind it. The dancer described nights spent in tears, afraid that their condition might one day force them to give up dancing altogether. “The thought of not being able to do what I love is unbearable,” they said.

“I’ve worked my whole life for this. Every beat of my heart belongs to the music — but lately, my body feels like it’s giving out. I don’t want pity. I just want people to know that sometimes, even when someone looks like they’re shining, they might be breaking inside.”

Experts have since praised the dancer’s courage in speaking out, noting how their openness could help raise awareness for others battling invisible illnesses.

Dr. Amelia Rainsford, a London-based psychologist specializing in performance health, told reporters, “What this dancer is experiencing is a reminder of the immense physical and emotional strain behind high-pressure professions.

Chronic conditions can be isolating, especially when your job requires constant visibility and energy. Speaking publicly is an act of immense strength — it helps dismantle stigma.”

The revelation also reignited conversations about the demanding nature of Strictly Come Dancing itself, where professionals often juggle grueling rehearsal hours, live performances, and injuries — all under the scrutiny of millions of viewers.

Many fans have called on the BBC to ensure additional wellness support for the cast and crew, emphasizing that mental and physical health must remain a priority in the pursuit of entertainment.

Karen and Carlos earned a score of 20 for their Tango; however, as weeks one and two are combined, she still sits high up on the leaderboard with a total score of 51.

With Amy Dowden and Thomas Skinner becoming the first couple to leave the show, Fleur questioned if the elimination has ignited her competitive side.

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Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden with host Tess Daly after their elimination(Image: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)

She replied: “No! I’m absolutely petrified. I know it’s a competition but in my head, it’s not.

“I love this and I don’t like the process. Whether it’s seeing myself or anyone going home because no one deserves it as we’re all working hard.”

The glitz and glamour of Strictly Come Dancing often hide the unseen struggles behind the sequins — and one of the show’s beloved professional dancers has just revealed a shocking and heartbreaking truth. In an emotional and deeply personal confession, the star opened up about battling a debilitating health condition that has been taking an immense toll on both their body and mind. “I smile on screen, but I’m falling apart inside,” the dancer admitted, their voice breaking as they described the fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty that have become constant companions behind the sparkle of the ballroom.

The revelation came during an exclusive interview with a leading UK entertainment outlet, where the dancer — who asked for compassion rather than sympathy — bravely spoke about their ongoing struggle. “I’ve been hiding it for a long time,” they said. “Every week I go out there, and people see the glitter, the smiles, the energy — but what they don’t see is the pain. I’m terrified. I don’t know how much longer I can keep pretending everything’s fine.” Their words painted a stark contrast to the show’s usual atmosphere of joy and celebration, offering fans a rare glimpse into the physical and emotional toll that performing at such an elite level can take.

The dancer’s revelation has struck a chord with fans across social media, sparking an outpouring of empathy and admiration. Messages flooded in under the hashtag #WeLoveYou[Name], with viewers praising their bravery and resilience. “It’s so easy to forget these performers are human,” one fan wrote on X. “They give us so much happiness every weekend, even when they’re struggling. True strength doesn’t always look like perfection — sometimes it looks like showing up anyway.” Another added, “Their honesty just made me love them even more. No one should suffer in silence.”

Despite their current challenges, the dancer expressed hope and determination to keep fighting. “I’m not ready to give up yet,” they said. “Every time I step onto that floor, I remember why I started — the music, the movement, the connection. That’s what keeps me going. Even if I’m in pain, for those few minutes, I feel free.” Their words captured both the fragility and resilience that define performers at the height of their craft — a testament to the human spirit beneath the stage lights.

As the Strictly season continues, fans and fellow cast members alike are standing firmly behind the star, sending messages of love, strength, and gratitude. It’s a poignant reminder that even the brightest smiles can hide unseen battles — and that sometimes, the greatest performance of all is simply finding the courage to keep dancing.

“I’m scared,” the dancer admitted at the end of the interview, tears glistening in their eyes. “But I’m also grateful — because for every day I can still move, still dance, still bring a little joy to someone watching, that’s a victory. That’s enough.”