Susanna Reid has recently shared her thoughts on the ongoing bullying investigation surrounding Strictly Come Dancing during a heartfelt interview on Sunday.
The Good Morning Britain host, who dazzled audiences as a runner-up on the show in 2013 alongside her dance partner Kevin Clifton, reflected on her experiences amidst the recent turmoil that has enveloped the beloved BBC program.
Navigating the Dark Clouds of Controversy
The atmosphere surrounding Strictly shifted dramatically when actress Amanda Abbington, known for her role in Sherlock, made allegations against her dance partner Giovanni Pernice.
The BBC addressed six out of the 17 complaints lodged, publicly apologizing to Amanda while Giovanni was cleared of the more severe allegations.
Susanna expressed her disappointment at the situation, stating, “It’s like being on a different planet, because everything sparkles, and so it’s a shame when it doesn’t for other people.”
She emphasized the importance of addressing negative experiences and providing support to those affected.
A Touch of Reality Amid Glamour
In her conversation, Susanna also touched on her work environment at ITV, revealing that she doesn’t interact much with the crew of This Morning, despite being in close proximity.
When asked about former This Morning presenter Phillip Schofield’s recent survival show, she was straightforward, saying, “I didn’t watch it, and I don’t know him.”
Phillip had recently disclosed a three-part series for Channel 5, where he sought personal reflection in a tropical setting after his departure from This Morning in May 2023, following revelations about his relationship with a younger colleague.
Susanna noted that she felt ITV had handled the situation appropriately, adding that it “feels like we’ve moved on.”
Sending Love in Times of Tragedy
A poignant moment came when Susanna conveyed a heartfelt message to Liam Payne’s family on live television.
The former One Direction star tragically passed away on October 16 after a fall from his hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
In the segment, she and her co-host Richard Arnold extended their condolences, saying, “I want to send all our love to his family. What more can you say? They are in our hearts right now.”
Their discussion transitioned into a broader conversation about the burdens of fame, with both hosts agreeing that it can often be more detrimental than beneficial.
Richard pointed out, “Fame can be a poisoned chalice,” referencing the Beatles and how their rise to fame was more gradual, contrasting it with today’s rapid celebrity culture.
Reflecting on the Price of Fame
Susanna and Richard’s candid discussion highlighted a significant perspective on the challenges that come with public life.
They revealed a common misconception among fans that fame provides a protective barrier, noting instead that it can lead to intense scrutiny and hardship.
“It’s the opposite,” they concluded, emphasizing the complexities of living in the public eye and the often unseen toll it takes on individuals.
