Strictly Christmas stars' hidden 'tension' revealed as masks slip ahead of special
EXCLUSIVE: Six stars are taking to the dancefloor for the Strictly festive special.
Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly are presenting the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special.
(Image: BBC)Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will be seen on Strictly Come Dancing screens one last time as they host this year's festive special. Although their last ever show was this year's grand final on December 20 the Christmas show is pre-recorded so fans get one more chance to see them in action as six celebrities take to the dancefloor hoping to be crowned the winner.
All Saints star Melanie Blatt, EastEnders actor Nicholas Bailey, TV presenter Scarlett Moffat, former Westlife member Brian McFadden, comedian and actor Babatunde Aléshé and Gladiator's Jodie Ounsley aka Fury, are taking to the dancefloor. Although there is far less pressure on them than those performing on the main show, celebrity psychic and body language expert Inball Honigman admitted many of them are feeling nervous. Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk on behalf of Covers.com she analysed the stars and revealed their true feelings ahead of tripping the light fantastic and facing the four judges.
Melanie Blatt and Kai Widdrington
"Melanie is eager," Inbaal observed. "She's taking a wide step ahead, which means she can't wait to get stuck in - it shows her eagerness. Her hand on her waist represents confidence, and her spread-out fingers show that's she's really at ease with the challenge.
However Inbaal revealed Melanie was also treating it as just another gig. "Her smile doesn't fully reach her eyes, so she's not as delighted as some of the other contestants. Her facial expression is more of a showbiz smile than a true hearty smile.
"This calmer smile shows that it's another day at the office for the singer, whereas for the other contestants, they're deliriously happy to be there. She leans away from Kai, signifying that she's depending on herself to succeed.
"She is taking responsibility for the success of this challenge, she wants to rely on herself and her own hard work," Inbaal said.
(Image: BBC)
Scarlett Moffatt and Vito Coppola
Gogglebox star Scarlett is feeling fearless ahead of taking to the dancfloor according to Inbaal.
"Standing like she means business, Scarlett's feet are pointing outwards, toes to the sides, giving her a stable, secure stance. A businesslike hand on her waist, her fingers are draped elegantly, showing that she can't wait for the graceful part of the challenge. The lady clearly loves to dance," Inbaal said.
"Her smile is so big and genuine, that even her teeth are parted, This shows real joy in spending the day dancing.
"There's one thing that's different about Scarlett's photo compared with all the rest, and it is that Vito, the professional dancer, leans more towards her than she does towards him.
"It means that Vito himself feels that he can depend on Scarlett's vision and performance, he doesn't feel like he has to 'carry' her."
(Image: BBC)
Babatunde Aléshé and Nancy Xu
Comedian Babatunde isn't displaying the confidence of some of the other stars taking part in the show with Inbaal describing him as being "doubtful."
"His expression says that he's there to enjoy himself. A bright, even, toothy smile with raised, rounded cheeks, signifies genuine joy. The casual hand in his pocket does not betray his nerves, and sends the message of some confidence.
"However, one big sign shows that he's doubting himself, and that is the way he's leaning deeply in Nancy's direction while she's leaning away from him. It shows that he's relying on her to do well, but she isn't depending on him at all.
"This imbalance shows that the pair are both aware that they're relying on Nancy's talent," she opined.
(Image: BBC)
Nicholas Bailey and Luba Mushtuk
EastEnders star Nicholas is feeling secure and confident ahead of his performance. "A masterclass of standing confidently, Nicholas's pose screams 'confident'," Inbaal observed.
"His back is straight, his legs strong, his shoulders even - his stance shows how ready he is," she said.
"But Nicholas's secret is he likes surprises - as his facial expression reveals. There are signs that show that he does not know what's coming up for him in the show.
"The actor's lips are lightly parted, as he's looking forward to being surprised, and his head leans lightly towards his dance partner, in a way that says that he's trusting in Luba. He knows that there will be surprises, and he's fully on board with that."
(Image: BBC)