Strictly Come Dancing Reigns Supreme on Family Television

Strictly Come Dancing Regains Family TV Crown

The Liverpudlian comedian Chris McCausland, who danced with Dianne Buswell, was the show’s first blind contestant.

Photograph: Guy Levy/PA

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This year’s Strictly Come Dancing season has been a resounding success. Despite facing controversy earlier in the year, the show has regained its place at the heart of Saturday night family entertainment. The 22nd season of the popular dance competition came to an end with Chris McCausland lifting the glitterball trophy in the “highest-scoring final ever,” watched by over 8 million viewers.

A Role Model for All

Chris McCausland’s determination and warmth on the dance floor captured viewers’ hearts from the start. As a blind contestant, he faced unique challenges, including not being able to see himself in the mirror during rehearsals or watch playbacks of his performances. However, this did not hold him back. He regularly topped the public vote, if not the judges’, and his performances were met with standing ovations.

The Royal National Institute of Blind People expressed their pride in McCausland’s achievement, stating that it “highlights the importance of diversity” and has sparked positive conversations about living with a disability. The charity hopes to see more representation on TV and is grateful for the impact McCausland has had on raising awareness and dispelling myths.

A Landmark Moment

Lucy Proctor, executive principal of the Royal National College for the Blind, which McCausland attended, said that there was “a huge amount of support” for him throughout his journey. She praised McCausland’s ability to inspire others, not just those in the visually impaired community but also the wider public.

Kerry Bevan, head of skills, information and support at Guide Dogs UK, called McCausland’s win a “personal triumph, but also a landmark moment” for everyone in the visually impaired community. She emphasized that representation matters and that this achievement will help to raise awareness and challenge assumptions about living with a disability.

New Welfare Measures Introduced

This season has seen new welfare measures introduced by producers, including chaperones in rehearsal rooms, following controversies earlier in the year. The introduction of these measures demonstrates the show’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all contestants.

With over 8 million viewers tuning in to watch the final live, Strictly Come Dancing continues to be a staple of British television. Its ability to bring people together and provide entertainment is undeniable. As McCausland said, his win is not just about being an inspiration but also about challenging assumptions and raising awareness about living with a disability.