Strictly Come Dancing Star Reveals Breakdown and Shares Experience of Loneliness

Angela Scanlon, a prominent TV presenter, recently participated in the 2023 season of Strictly Come Dancing, dancing alongside professional Carlos Gu. The show garnered much attention as the competition reached its quarter-finals, with Scanlon finishing in sixth place. The winner of that season was Coronation Street actor Ellie Leach.

Angela Scanlon’s Struggles with Loneliness

Despite her public persona and bustling career, Scanlon has openly shared her feelings of isolation. In a reflective post, she described a significant moment during a charity trek for CoppaFeel! in the Himalayas. This trek took place last November and involved notable figures such as Emma Willis, Sara Davies, and Candice Brown.

A Breakdown in the Himalayas

While leading the charity team, Scanlon experienced an emotional crisis. She described it as a “full breakdown,” revealing her vulnerability in a critical moment. In her words, she found herself “ugly crying into my yak-themed duvet” after just a few days into the challenging trek.

Scanlon reflected on her struggles, questioning her ability to support the remarkable women around her during such trying times. She expressed a profound sense of loneliness that was neither trivial nor fleeting. Instead, it was a deep-seated feeling that persisted despite her substantial online following of 436,000 on Instagram, as well as a fulfilling family and professional life.

Creating Community Through Shared Experiences

This experience stirred something within Scanlon, leading her to establish a grassroots initiative called Hot Messers. This community promotes the acceptance of imperfection and chaos, encouraging people to come together for organized group walks.

• The first walk saw a surprising turnout, dispelling her fears of low attendance.
• The second gathering was even more successful, doubling the number of participants compared to the first.

Angela Scanlon’s journey highlights the complexities of public life and the hidden battles that many face, even those in the spotlight. Her candid revelations serve as a reminder of the importance of community and connection in combating feelings of loneliness.

Fans can continue to follow Angela and watch her performances on Strictly Come Dancing, available on BBC iPlayer.