Sam Quek says the recent scandals that have rocked Strictly should not “take the shine” off what she describes as a “fantastic show”.
The former Olympian turned presenter was the fifteenth and final contestant confirmed for the new series last month.
And she gave her backing to the show in the face of claims by previous contestant Amanda Abbington that she suffered abuse during rehearsals last year.
The hockey star, 35, also appeared to support Giovanni Pernice, who was Strictly’s longest-serving male professional dancer until Abbington accused him of bullying.
The Sicilian dancer has strongly denied any wrongdoing and the BBC is conducting an investigation.
Former Olympian Sam Quek (pictured celebrating the women’s hockey gold medal match in 2016) has said Strictly’s recent scandals should not “take the shine” off the “fantastic” show.
One of Strictly’s newest contestants also appeared and gave her support to dancer Giovanni Pernice.
Giovanni was Strictly’s longest-serving male professional dancer until actress Amanda Abbington accused him of bullying (Giovanni and Amanda Abington pictured in October 2023)
Ms Quek said: “Everyone has a different experience and I don’t know what your experience was. The truth has two sides.
‘Sometimes in life there is always a negative experience and, yes, let’s face it, but that doesn’t take away the positive.
“That shouldn’t take any shine off Strictly. It’s a fantastic show. Everyone loves it because of the energy it brings. It brings people together on Saturday nights.”
Ms Quek, who played 125 international hockey matches for the England and Great Britain teams, admits she is already taking Strictly seriously.
She said: “I’m competitive. Of course I want to win. Why wouldn’t I want to win the crystal ball trophy? But wanting to win and being able to win, for me, are two completely different issues.”
The BBC presenter added: “I have no dancing experience. I’m here to improve. I’m here to have a good time. I’m here to learn how to dance.”
The full cast of Strictly Come Dancing 2024 contestants, including Tasha Ghouri and former JLS boyband member JB Gill
TV presenter Nick Knowles has also joined this year’s cast.
‘It’s incredible to be in this situation, to learn to dance with a professional, a world champion, and to be present at a great show.’
Strictly fans have questioned the inclusion of former Love Islander Tasha Ghouri and former JLS boyband member JB Gill in this year’s line-up.
Both already have professional dance experience, having trained in commercial street style, which potentially gives them an advantage.
But the couple say they have had no training in Latin or ballroom dancing.
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