JLS' Aston Merrygold hits out over Strictly Come Dancing 'fix' claims

dailystar.co.uk:

Strictly Come Dancing is "fixed" after a number of celebrities with previous dancing knowledge have gone on to succeed on the show.The JLS member, 34, took part in the beloved BBC One dance competition with professional partner Janette Manrara back in 2017 where the dancing duo managed to storm their way through to the seventh week of the show.The TV series has become famous for being embroiled in scandal after years of being on the silver screen, with the talent show now even thought to be haunted by the Strictly curse which often sees couples form and break on the show.But in recent years, fans of the show have started to theorise that the dance series is fixed after many celebrities with previous dancing experience have gone on to succeed on the show.It comes as Aston unveiled a new playground made from old recycled McDonald’s Happy Meal toys at the Ronald McDonald House in the heart of Manchester.Now, in an exclusive interview with Daily Star, they singer has lifted the lid on what it is like to work on the show and how in many cases dance experience can actually work against their favour.When asked if the show is easier for contestants with previous dance experience, he revealed how he struggled to succeed on the show retraining his body to dance in a different style.He said: “Not with that show, I think if they’re trained in Latin and ballroom, then of course.

But I think it’s almost at a disadvantage and the pro’s will probably tell you this.“With someone like myself, like Janette was pulling her hair out because I had to stand in a certain way but I was so used to standing in the way that I do when I'm performing.“She was like I almost want you to be a blank canvas because this is actually harder to make you move.