Annabel Croft, the tennis star-turned-*Strictly Come Dancing* contestant, has opened up about the emotional stress that the BBC series places on its stars, 

sharing that one of her co-stars was brought to tears by the pressures of the competition. 

Her revelations shed light on the often-hidden emotional toll that the high-pressure environment of the hit dance show can take on its participants.

In a candid interview, Croft, who made it to the semi-finals of the 2023 series alongside professional dancer Johannes Radebe, 

discussed the behind-the-scenes stress and tension that pervade the *Strictly* experience. 

While the show is known for its glitzy choreography and dazzling performances, Croft explained that the reality of the intense rehearsals and competition can leave contestants emotionally drained. 

“There is a lot of stress behind the scenes,” Croft revealed. “You were rehearsing next door to various couples and would see doors being slammed, somebody running off down the road, and lots of tears.” Her comments highlight the emotional volatility that contestants often face while preparing for the show, with the pressure to perform at a high level taking a toll on their mental and emotional well-being.

The physical demands of the show are well-known, but Croft’s statements suggest that the emotional strain can be just as challenging. Contestants often juggle the intense rehearsals, long hours, and the desire to excel, all while dealing with public scrutiny. Croft’s insight into the behind-the-scenes atmosphere paints a less glamorous picture of the *Strictly* experience, showing that it’s not just the dancing but the emotional toll of competition that can weigh heavily on the participants.

Croft’s own experience on the show was emotionally charged for personal reasons as well. The tennis legend joined the 2023 season of *Strictly Come Dancing* as a tribute to her late husband, Mel Coleman, a sailor who passed away earlier that year. The grief of losing him added another layer of complexity to the already stressful environment of the show. Croft admitted that she struggled to contain her emotions during the competition, especially knowing that her biggest supporter would not be there to witness her performances.

“I was about to go out in front of millions of people and be jolly and happy, but I was sobbing, thinking: ‘I don’t know where you are, Mel. Where have you gone?'” Croft shared. Her vulnerability was palpable as she reflected on how her late husband had always been her source of confidence and reassurance. She revealed that before stepping onto the *Strictly* stage, she couldn’t shake the heartache of not having him by her side to offer the support he had always given her.

Croft’s openness about her grief and the emotional challenges of competing on *Strictly* highlights the human side of the show, reminding viewers that the contestants are not just performers but individuals dealing with their own personal struggles. Her heartfelt reflections offer a deeper understanding of the pressures that come with being in the public eye, especially when those pressures are compounded by loss.

While Croft’s journey on *Strictly* was filled with moments of joy, it also showcased the emotional vulnerability that many contestants experience behind the scenes. The show’s high stakes, combined with personal hardships, can create a challenging environment, and Croft’s candidness is a reminder of the emotional resilience required to compete.

Her comments also shed light on the broader emotional challenges faced by *Strictly* contestants. The pressures of the show have led to some tense situations in previous seasons, with other stars also feeling the emotional strain. For instance, there were reports of tension surrounding the 2024 season, with accusations of inappropriate behavior between former *Strictly* dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima and their partners, further highlighting the mental and emotional complexities that can come with being on the show.

Despite the emotional challenges, Croft’s journey on *Strictly* showed her strength and resilience. While she did not win the competition, her courage in facing her grief and persevering through the emotional challenges of the show made her a standout contestant. Her story is a testament to the determination and inner strength required to take part in such a demanding and high-profile competition.

As *Strictly Come Dancing* continues to captivate audiences with its dazzling performances, Annabel Croft’s insights remind us that behind the glitz and glamour, the contestants are real people, each with their own personal battles and emotional struggles.

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