All Saints star admits festive Strictly appearance pushed her further out of her comfort zone than anything she has done before
Melanie Blatt opens up about her Strictly experience
Melanie Blatt has delivered a candid verdict on her time on the upcoming Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special, admitting she felt “deeply uncomfortable” throughout the entire process — despite ultimately describing it as an unforgettable challenge.
The singer, 50, appeared on Lorraine on Tuesday, where she spoke openly to stand-in host Christine Lampard about what viewers can expect from her festive ballroom appearance.
“Out of the comfort zone doesn’t even cover it”
Reflecting on the experience, Blatt confessed that Strictly nerves surpassed anything she had faced during her long music career.
She explained that although she is used to performing on stage, Strictly was “like nothing I have ever done before,” adding that feeling outside her comfort zone was an understatement.
Despite the discomfort, Blatt said the challenge aligned with her personal philosophy of pushing herself.
She told the show that she reminds herself daily to seek challenges, admitting that Strictly tested that mindset to the extreme — but in a way she ultimately valued.
Praise for her professional partner Kai Widdrington
Blatt was partnered with professional dancer Kai Widdrington for the Christmas special, and she had nothing but praise for him and the rest of the professional dancers.
She described being “in awe” of their athleticism and skill, joking that it wasn’t until she tried to dance herself that she truly realised just how extraordinary the professionals are.
Blatt also laughed about struggling with the physicality of the routines, admitting she was amazed by the dancers’ ability to jump, bounce, and maintain perfect form throughout.
What Melanie Blatt will dance on the night
For the festive episode, Blatt and Widdrington will perform an American Smooth to Santa Baby by The Pussycat Dolls.
They will be competing against a star-studded Christmas line-up including Scarlett Moffatt, Jodie Ounsley, Nicholas Bailey, Babatunde Aléshé, and Brian McFadden, all vying for the festive Glitterball Trophy.
Costume nerves added to the challenge
Blatt has previously revealed that one of the biggest hurdles for her was the wardrobe.
She admitted that she is not a dress wearer and felt particularly challenged by wearing a long, flowing ballroom gown for the routine. Being particular about shapes and silhouettes, she said the experience forced her to “just go for it” and stop overthinking how she looks.
She described this as another unexpected lesson from the show — learning not to care quite so much and to embrace the moment.
From All Saints choreography to ballroom technique
Blatt rose to fame as part of All Saints, alongside Shaznay Lewis, Natalie Appleton, and Nicole Appleton. While the group performed choreographed routines, Blatt admitted the style could not be more different from ballroom dancing.
She joked that All Saints choreography involved a lot of “plodding around,” whereas Strictly demanded strong posture, precise frames, and technical discipline. Still, she said one skill carried over — knowing how to count to eight.
A festive appearance viewers won’t forget
Although Blatt described feeling uncomfortable throughout the process, she made it clear the experience was ultimately rewarding.
Her honesty offers viewers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the emotional reality of taking part in Strictly — even for seasoned performers — and sets the stage for what promises to be one of the most talked-about performances of the Christmas special.
The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special airs on BBC One over the festive period.
