EXCLUSIVE We've had A BALL!

It Takes Two host JANETTE MANRARA on why the Strictly finale is set to sparkle

- VICTORIA WILSON

STRICTLY COME DANCING

SATURDAY, 7.05 PM, BBC1 ENTERTAINMENT

After weeks of jaunty jives, romantic rumbas and sizzling salsas, this Saturday we find out which of our remaining celebrities and their professional partners will waltz away with the coveted Glitterball trophy as Strictly Come Dancing reaches its finale.

Someone who knows exactly how the couples will be feeling ahead of the big night is Janette Manrara. The former Strictly pro turned co-presenter of companion series It Takes Two tripped the light fantastic in eight seasons of the BBC1 sequinned spectacular, finishing as a runner-up with pop star HRVY in the 2020 series.

Here, in an exclusive interview with TV Times, Janette, 39, looks back on this year’s highlights, shares her tips for the finalists, and chats Christmas gifts for her co-host Rylan…

There have been plenty of wow-factor moments in season 20 – have you enjoyed watching?

Yes, it’s been such a good series! I can’t say who I think will win because it’s impossible to call.

What’s the atmosphere like on the night of a final? 

The buzz in the studio is next level. You have a huge sense of accomplishment as a couple because you’ve made it all the way to the end, performed every dance and survived all the ups and downs – the sore feet, the blisters, the exhaustion…