Nikita Kuzmin has candidly disclosed his newfound sense of authenticity on the set of Strictly Come Dancing.
The 26-year-old dance professional, who became a part of the popular BBC dance competition in 2021, is currently partnered with Olympic hero Sam Quek, 36, for the show's 2024 season.
They were present at the Daily Mirror Pride Of Britain Awards With TSB on Monday night, hosted by Carol Vorderman.
At this event held at London's Grosvenor House Hotel, the Ukrainian dancer shared insights into his more relaxed and genuine demeanour on the show, something which the audience has noticed.
Nikita revealed that he has stopped censoring his natural reactions during the live shows, which was evident when he showed a palpable expression of surprise during the recent revelation of JLS singer JB Gill and partner Amy Dowden entering the dance-off, reports the Mirror.
Speaking with the Mirror, Nikita explained: "This Strictly I'm not sure what I'm doing. I'm not thinking this year, I'm just being myself. So all the reactions, I've been doing them for years so I'm just trying to hide them usually and this year - I was genuinely shocked (at the dance-off)!"
He amusingly admitted his unfamiliarity with internet culture commenting: "I'm not sure what a meme is, but I'm sure I do that face every week!" Sam Quek, accompanying him, humorously enquired if he was revealing her dance struggles, to which Nikita promptly responded: "Not at all!"
The pair, in their quest for the Glitterball Trophy, spoke about their gruelling practice regimen. Nikita commented: "It's a Monday and it's a tough, tough day. Every Monday is a tough Monday and it's where you have to deliver."
Sam concurred about the difficulty of training, stating: "It's your hardest day."
but Nikita countered: "No, yours! " Sam continued: "I like Mondays - it's like an emotional rollercoaster. I'm like fresh, good to go and then Tuesday it's like, head down. Wednesday I'm like, Oh I can't do it!" As Halloween week approaches on Strictly, Nikita teased a shock for fans, confirming: "I am planning the costumes."
When asked about his own outfit, he playfully warned: "A lot. I'm telling you - be ready to be surprised. It's a lot. I'm not saying anything."
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The past weekend saw Paul Merson and partner Karen Hauer exit after being out danced by JB and Amy.
The football pundit expressed gratitude towards Karen for her coaching efforts. He remarked: "My abs are really tight now. I am so proud of you. Every week you have showed up, you have improved.
"You're what Strictly is about and I want to thank you for bringing such joy and just showing everyone that it is possible with a little bit of work and lots of giggles."
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