The mother of new Strictly entrant Tom Dean reveals the Olympian had dance lessons at a young age and ‘won a Strictly show’
The mother of TEAM GB hero Tom Dean has revealed his dancing experience – in a “strictly equal” competition – ahead of the swimmer’s appearance on the BBC series.
The Sun was the first to reveal how the Paris 2024 Olympic gold medallist, who triumphed in the 200m freestyle relay, would take to the dance floor in the 20th episode of Strictly Come Dancing.
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Three-time Olympic gold medallist Tom, 24, confirmed our story on air before being announced for Strictly’s 2024 celebrity list in a segment on Radio 1.
During the chat, Tom told Radio 1: “Jamie and I were just chatting about it and how much dance experience we both have.
“I’m excited. It doesn’t feel quite real yet. We still have a bit of training ahead of us, which will help me internalize it even more.”
Now his mother Jacquie Hughes, 61, has spoken about this experience – and said that he enjoyed the dance competitions at school.
She confirmed to PA that he had reached the final of a “strictly equal” dance competition.
Although she acknowledged his talent, she added, “But I wouldn’t say he was John Travolta.”
Giving an insight into his passion for dance, she added: ‘He and his brothers always choreograph a really fun dance at Christmas to show me and his sisters, which is always hilarious, and then they reveal on Christmas Day.
“But this is just a bit of fun.
“I would say swimming is his natural talent, but he is very playful.”
DEAN-DEAL
Her confession comes after Tom broke a key show rule by admitting his place before the official Strictly announcement.
He was then seen fidgeting in his seat as he was questioned on Capital Radio about his slip-up.
During last week’s TV chat where he unveiled his Strictly spot, Tom told how he would follow in the footsteps of his Team GB teammate Adam Peaty.
The gold medallist from Staffordshire finished ninth in the 2021 BBC show alongside professional dancer Katya Jones.
At the time, Tom said: “Of course you want to take a break after completing a full Olympic cycle and the opportunity presents itself.
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“I thought it would be really exciting to try something different.
“I will do that and then start training again straight away. That’s something I’m looking forward to.”
He continued: “I haven’t seen (Adam) yet. He’s done great, so I’m sure I’ll get some tips from him.”
He added: “I’m not that successful at gravity sports outside of the water.
“I’m jumping into it knowing what a hard day of training looks like, so I’m looking forward to it. I think we’ll find out.”
“It’s something I’m looking forward to. When I’m done with that, I can relax at home with the family for a bit and then it starts at the end of August. It’s exciting.”
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