Harry Hill's brutal five-word reason for refusing to do Strictly Come Dancing

Have I Got News For You: Harry Hill jokes about Holly Willoughby

Zany comedian Harry Hill has firmly ruled out appearing on Strictly Come Dancing.

In a candid interview with The Times Harry dismissed the idea, saying: “I don’t like Strictly. It’s twee. I’ve been asked many times to go on. My reply is always, ‘No thank you, I’m happily married.’”

Harry’s comment is a reference to the so-called Strictly curse.

The term was coined as an explanation for at least ten different celeb stars splitting up with the partners they were with when they joined Strictly - to engage in a budding romance with a pro dancer from the series instead.

Harry is clearly determined that no dancer will disrupt his long marriage to artist Magda Archer.

The couple tied the knot in 1996, and share three children: Kitty Clover, Winifred Millicent, and Frederica Aster.

Comedian Harry Hill has shared the reason why he has no plans to make an appearance on Strictly (Image: Getty)

Harry has openly expressed regrets about working too much during his children’s early years, admitting he was often physically present but mentally distracted.

These days he prioritizes his family life in Kent, where he lives with Magda, whom he calls “the love of my life.”

Harry, whose real name is Matthew Hall, has followed an unconventional career path.

Before entering comedy, he worked as a junior doctor, enduring gruelling 100-hour weeks before transitioning to a part-time locum role while developing his comedy act.

His big break came in 1992 when he won the prestigious Perrier Award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, launching a career that has included Harry Hill’s TV Burp, Junior Bake Off, and a string of musicals.

He cited the Strictly curse as one reason why he would not want to be involved with the programme (Image: Getty)

Throughout his success, Harry has kept in touch with his medical peers, many of whom are now retiring.

While reflecting on their conversations, Harry said he has no plans to retire yet. However, he acknowledges the toll that live performances have taken on his body.

After preparing for his 2025 tour, New Bits & Greatest Hits, he admitted, “The live-show stunts are becoming more of a problem as I get older. I broke a few ribs falling off an ironing board, and it takes longer to recover these days.”