Strictly’s Shayne Ward ‘passes out’ after gruelling rehearsals – as he hits back at fans who branded him ‘cocky’
STRICTLY star Shayne Ward appeared to be feeling the effects of intense dance training.
The former Coronation Street actor, 39, is vying to be crowned the BBC dance competition’s next winner.
His pro partner, Nancy Xu, took to Instagram and posted a snap of the pair lying on the floor during rehearsals.
Saturday’s live show will see Shayne and Nancy perform a Tango to Teddy Swims’ song The Door.
Nancy posted a short video to her Instagram story, asking how Shayne was feeling during rehearsals.
He replied: “New routine…”, before gesturing to his mind being blown by the upcoming performance.
Last week’s first live performance saw them tackle a Samba to Stevie Wonder’s Do I Do.
While he’s impressed some Strictly fans, others had branded the singer “overconfident” on social media.
Shayne took to Instagram to reassure commenters that it couldn’t be further from the truth.
Accompanied by a moody black and white photo, Shayne said: “Strictly is amazing and I love being part of it.
“But through my smile on TV I’m as nervous as the next person.
“Not cocky or overconfident… I’m nervous!
“I just gotta work hard and listen to my wonderful teacher Nancy Xiu. All I can do is my best!”
Some viewers already predicted Shayne could go on to win the show.
Earlier this month, he gave fans a sneak peek at his dance moves ahead of making his Strictly debut.
One wrote: “And the winner of strictly 2024 is ….gonna be you.”
Strictly 2024 pairings
Here's who is matched with who this series...
Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell
Jamie Borthwick and Michelle Tsiakkas
JB Gill and Amy Dowden MBE
Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe
Nick Knowles and Luba Mushtuk
Paul Merson and Karen Hauer
Pete Wicks and Jowita Przystał
Punam Krishan and Gorka Márquez
Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec
Tom Dean MBE and Nadiya Bychkova
Toyah Willcox and Neil Jones
Sam Quek MBE and Nikita Kuzmin
Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola
Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu
Wynne Evans and Katya Jones
Another said: “good luck with strictly looks like u have the moves to win!!”
And a third added: “Loving the moves @shaynetward.”
Other stars taking part include comedian Chris McCausland, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick and Olympic gold medallist Sam Quek.
Strictly Come Dancing airs on BBC One and iPlayer.