This year's Strictly Come Dancing fans are chuffed that there's another history-making moment on the 2022 series after it was confirmed there would be two same-sex pairings. Radio and TV presenter Richie Anderson is paired with reigning champion Giovanni Pernice while comedian Jayde Adams will be dancing with Karen Hauer.
Richie, who admitted he had specific requirements for his partner, said before they were introduced: “As the great 80s philosopher Sinitta said: ‘He’s got to be big and strong and enough to… whirl me around the dancefloor.'" Richie was paired with his professional dance partner Giovann in the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show studio, exclaiming: “Could you get anyone better than Mr Giovanni? I feel like I’m the envy of the British public right now.” Giovanni was also pleased saying, “He’s got a lot of energy. I’m very, very happy.”
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Comedian and actor Jayde revealed that she is a Strictly super-fan. She was paired with another fan favourite, Karen, who Strictly devotees have been calling for to be coupled up with a women for the past few years.
Jayde was delighted, saying: “Karen is Strictly.” Karen herself added: “I’m absolutely excited. I have so many ideas – too many ideas. This is going to be a golden moment for me.”
The stars were happy but so were many of the audience. Rebecca Clayton tweeted: "Two same-sex couples on Strictly this year. Boom, boom, BOOM!" Catie Craig added: "Yass! Take that bigots! Two same-sex couples on #Strictly this year!"
Richard Butler was happy about Karen and Jayde being paired up: "Karen Hauer in a same-sex pairing just feels so right to me #Strictly." And Victoria tweeted she was happy with Gio being paired with Richie: "YEEEEAH I'M SO HAPPY !!! I can't wait see Giovanni's work for the same-sex dancing."
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