BBC Strictly star Sarah Hadland begs viewers to stop 'going on' about one thing

By Leah Stanfield, Assistant Showbiz Editor

Actress Sarah Hadland was in tears when talking about the meaning behind Billie Eilish's Birds Of A Feather. (Image: BBC)

Sarah Hadland has opened up about her wishes for age-related comments to stop as she competes on Strictly Come Dancing, emphasising the importance of recognising women's capabilities without age constraints.

Taking to the dance floor with 2023's champion Vito Coppola on the BBC One hit show, the talented 53-year-old actress and her partner regularly impress judges and secure spots in the top quarter of the leaderboard.

In a candid interview with The Times, Hadland expressed her views: "I'd love for my age not to be commented on, for it to be accepted that women are amazing and don't need to be limited, when men seem to be allowed to do things without any comment.

"But if women watch and go, 'Wow, I'm in my 50s, I could do that too,' then that's absolutely brilliant.

"Rather than go on about it, I'd rather just show what I can do. We need to change this narrative of women having a shelf life."

Sarah Hadland is best known for starring in Miranda. (Image: BBC/Gary Moyes)

The actress didn't shy away from discussing the vitality and visibility of her contemporaries, stating: "I know loads my age who are really fit and active, they don't drop off the ends of the Earth. We just need to be more visible," reports the Mirror.

Hadland also shared insights into her evolving relationship with exercise: "When I was young I exercised because I wanted to be thin and that's an appalling goal.

"Now I exercise because I want to be strong and capable, I want my child to see me fit and healthy and because it helps my mental health."

Sarah's pal and co-star Miranda Hart, 51, made a delightful cameo at Hadland and Coppola's rehearsals, as seen in footage aired on last weekend's show.

Dressed incognito as a "choreographer" donning a black turtleneck and clutching a small dog, she made a surprise entrance to the delight of the duo.

This week, viewers can expect Hadland and Coppola to grace the dance floor with the American Smooth to Heather Small's Proud, a tune closely associated with Hadland's beloved character Stevie from Miranda.