‘MY AUTISM DIAGNOSIS WAS A RELIEF'

Christine McGuinness on her new chapter

- JORDAN PARAMOR

The past 18 months have been incredibly testing for Christine McGuinness. We caught up with the 33-year-old for an exclusive chat about how she’s staying positive and looking to the future.

How was your Strictly the Real Full Monty experience?

It was life-changing for me. It was the first time I made proper friends, because I’ve never felt I fitted in, and it pushed me out of my comfort zone. I was so nervous, but Duncan James and James Jordan were like the naughty boys at school and so funny. I’m married to a comedian [Paddy McGuinness], so I love comedy. But of course, there’s an important message behind the show, too – how getting checked earlier for cancer can save your life – and we were aware of the serious reason we were doing it.

You’ve been open about your 10-year battle with anorexia and body issues. Stripping off must have felt challenging…