After 10 weeks of gruelling Strictly Come Dancing rehearsals and fierce competition alongside Amy Dowden MBE, JB Gill has sadly had to bid her goodbye and continue the competition with Lauren Oakley. Amy, 34 – who returned for Strictly’s 20th anniversary series after having treatment for cancer – withdrew from the show last week due to a foot injury, and JB, 37, tells us it’s been challenging without his former partner.
How have you found the last couple of weeks?
It's weird not dancing with Amy, but Lauren is absolutely lovely and it's great that she's been able to take over and do such a great job. I've missed Amy, but Lauren's energy has been unbelievable. You’ve seen her all throughout the series doing various group dances and she is amazing, so it's been great to work with her. I just want to say a huge thank you to every single person who has supported Amy and sent messages.
What was it like training with Lauren as opposed to Amy?
At first it was surreal, because I am very much used to working with Amy. But she’s an incredible dancer, so for me it’s about letting go and being in the moment. That’s what it’s all about – and making Amy proud.
You got three tens for your Couple’s Choice, how did it feel?
Words can’t even describe it, I’m speechless. It felt like it was the right ending to a challenging week. Three tens and a nine from Craig, that’s basically four tens! That was unbelievable.
You’ve now stayed in the competition longer than your bandmate Aston Merrygold, in 2017 – how do you feel about that?
I’ll take that. I’m very competitive. Obviously, I’m sad he went out when he did, but I’m very happy I’ve beaten him.
You’re used to having girls screaming at you as a pop star – what’s it been like having the more mature women now you’re on Strictly?
I mean, the JLS experience isn't too far away from that, to be honest, because nowadays the girls who are coming are women with their own kids now. It was their mums who were taking them for the first time back in the day, if you want to call it that. So, actually, there's a few grans floating about who are into JLS. But you know what? I love it.
You mentioned your body has been feeling it – are you getting a six-pack?
Well, the-six pack is incoming! I've definitely lost a lot of weight, and we've not even done half of the up-tempo numbers yet. So, if I'm in here for the long haul, then the weight will definitely be chipping off me. I'm here for it.