Rachel Riley 'still hates' the Strictly theme tune after experience left her uncomfortable

Over a decade after competing on Strictly Come Dancing, Rachel Riley has confessed that the show's theme tune still fills her with dread. The maths whizz from Countdown competed on the dance floor back in 2013 with pro dancer Pasha Kovalev - who is now her husband and father of their two daughters.

Despite cherishing the moments spent with Pasha, 44, Rachel, admits the experience has left a lasting impact. Speaking with her fellow former contestant Sophie Ellis-Bextor on the Spinning Plates podcast last year, she shared: "It still gets me and it is ridiculous. It does do something to your psyche that isn't comfortable."

Describing her instant reaction to being asked about Strictly, Rachel continued: "Even now like my body is kind of like something's just like flowing through me that isn't comfortable.

"I hate the theme tune and I have to put a brave face on with the girls and I'm like, 'Yay, daddy's song'."

Elaborating on the deep-rooted effects of her Strictly stint, she added: "I mean, I did get mild PTSD after it. I think the eventual way I learned to deal with it is to ignore it as much as possible."

During her time on the show, supportive Pasha recommended cognitive behavioural therapy to Rachel, which provided some solace.

She has since voiced that producers should be more aware of the strain contestants undergo.

In response, a BBC spokesperson said a core part of the production process is ensuring participants are cared for.

They added to The Mirror: "We have plans which cover initial casting through to pre-production, to after care beyond transmission.

"Depending on the production we offer support such as meetings with psychologists, Mental Health First Aiders on set and individually, as well as advice on social media use and working with the press."

The spokesperson further noted: "We have our own safeguarding team of health and wellbeing professionals to give support regarding the mental health of our contributors.

"We continue to work with producers, external specialists and others in the industry as well as our own specialist advisers to develop best practice in this area to help protect those taking part in our shows."

The brand new series of Strictly Come Dancing returns to screens this Saturday, where 15 new pairings will be unveiled.

Those in the race for the coveted Glitterball trophy are stars such as; Toyah Willcox, JB Gill, Jamie Borthwick, Pete Wicks, and Paul Merson.