Alex Kingston walked toward the Clauditorium, defeat etched on her face. The usually composed actress, a familiar presence on screens for decades, was visibly shaken after her performance. She revealed a hidden challenge: dyscalculia, a difficulty with numbers that profoundly impacts her ability to grasp rhythm and timing.
“I’m numerically dyslexic, so I can’t count,” she confessed, her voice catching with emotion. This wasn’t simply a minor hurdle; it was a fundamental obstacle in a competition built on precision and musicality. The song chosen for her, a piece devoid of lyrics, amplified this struggle, leaving her adrift without the anchors she typically relies upon.
The selection of “Amparito Roca” felt particularly jarring. Alex depends on lyrics to find her timing, and without them, she was left with nothing to guide her. It raises a crucial question: should a song so ill-suited to a contestant’s known difficulty ever have been assigned in the first place? A simple change, a song with lyrics and a similar beat, could have dramatically altered her experience.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Former footballer Karen Carney, also a contestant, lives with Scheuermann kyphosis, a condition affecting spinal curvature. She openly acknowledged the limitations it placed on her movements, yet a judge’s comment suggested a need to “challenge” her physical condition – a remark that, while perhaps unintentional, felt insensitive.
Strictly Come Dancinghas a remarkable history of championing inclusivity. Chris McCausland, the first blind contestant, triumphed last year, shattering expectations. Rose Ayling-Ellis, a deaf actress, captivated audiences in 2021, sparking a surge in interest in British Sign Language. This year, Ellie Goldstein, who lives with Down syndrome, has brought joy and inspiration to the ballroom.
The show’s legacy of embracing diversity makes the oversight regarding Alex’s dyscalculia all the more disappointing. Despite its commendable track record, this felt like a misstep, a moment where a contestant’s needs weren’t fully considered. It’s a reminder that even the most progressive platforms can stumble.
However, Alex Kingston possesses a resilience that shines through. Her partnership with Johannes Radebe is a captivating force, a connection built on mutual respect and undeniable chemistry. Their bond is palpable, a testament to Johannes’ ability to connect with his partners on a deeply personal level.
For an actress of her stature, participating inStrictlywas a surprising and welcome move. She’s approached the competition with dedication and grace, proving that serious actors can embrace the joy and spectacle of ballroom dancing without sacrificing their integrity.
Looking ahead, Alex has a Waltz set to Barry Manilow’s “Weekend in New England” – a song with lyrics, a crucial element for her success. This change feels like a course correction, a recognition of her needs. With the support of Johannes and a song that allows her to thrive, she’s poised to reclaim her momentum and secure her place in the upcoming Blackpool special.
Alex has given everything to this competition, and her determination is unwavering. A momentary setback will only fuel her fire, and the prospect of seeing her and Johannes dance in Blackpool is genuinely exciting.
