Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Robbie Purves & Jasmine Allday

Strictly's Dan Walker 'doesn't celebrate Halloween due to religious beliefs'

Dan Walker joined in with Strictly Come Dancing 's Halloween spectacular this weekend despite reports suggesting he doesn't celebrate the holiday due to his religious beliefs.

The BBC Breakfast host survived another week on the BBC One dancing show with his and Nadiya Bychkova's energetic Jive to Rock Lobster by The B-52's.

Whilst some of the other contestants danced in full Halloween dress, Dan and Nadiya appeared in lobster costumers, complete with fake claws made out of foam.

Dan scored a five from judge Craig Revel Horwood, whilst fellow dancer Motsi Mabuse gave him a huge eight out of 10 for his performance, which Craig described as "entertaining".

Dan Walker and Nadiya danced dressed as lobsters on Saturday night (PA)

"It was like watching a horror film," he said as he gave his verdict.

"You want to close your eyes but you can't wait to see what's next."

According to Birmingham Live, he doesn't celebrate Halloween as he is an Evangelical Christian. His beliefs also mean he doesn't work on Sundays, the Sabbath - something which he has stuck to throughout his career.

He has previously discussed how his religion helps him to accept criticism from others.

"I never mind what people write or say about me. That’s because, as a Christian, I don’t take my value from what people think about me," he shared on Premier Christian Radio podcast The Profile.

Dan took part in the spooky spectacular on Strictly Come Dancing (PA)
Dan Walker is best known for being a presenter on BBC Breakfast (BBC)

"I know I can’t control all those things, hurtful or hateful, whatever they might be, that people say about me or my family, or about my faith."

Dan has previously opened up about not rehearsing for Strictly on Sundays as he dedicates those days to his family.

"I’ve always had that day as a family day. Sometimes, it’s been difficult, and some people find it peculiar that that’s the stance I’ve chosen to take. But it’s really important," he told The Independent.

"I work a lot, so I have to make up for the fact that I'm not there. My faith is important to me. It's what makes me tick.

"Having that time to rest, gain perspective and concentrate on the important things in life keeps me grounded."

BBC Breakfast Dan Walker has made quite the impression on Strictly viewers (BBC)

The television presenter says Nadiya is like family to him and she joins them for meals and days out.

"Because Nadiya's become a big part of our family. She comes round for dinner, we go out together as a family but also we're encouraging each other and having a proper laugh in training," he shared.

"I won't go out of this programme for lack of trying, we are working hard but also I'm enjoying it far more than I thought I would."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.