There could be romance on the cards developing for one couple on the upcoming series of , according to behavioural psychological expert Jo Hemmings.
After a year-long lull, 2024 could be the year the ‘Strictly Curse’ returns to the ballroom. The infamous phenomenon has previously appeared in years gone by, leading to romantic connections and also public breakdowns.
Behavioural psychologist Jo Hemmings has exclusively spoken to and analysed how the combination of intense rehearsals, public scrutiny and emotional bonding creates the perfect storm for relationships to flourish – or fail.
“The ‘Strictly Curse’ is not a supernatural phenomenon,” Hemmings told BetMGM. “Instead, it’s a complex mix of emotional, psychological and physical dynamics.”
“While the rehearsals may be more functional than romantic, the ultimate goal – to perform in front of an audience and to potentially win – sees contestants in fancy costumes, flamboyant dances, passionate embraces and requires complete trust in their partner.
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Max George and Maisie Smith found love on Strictly (Image: Getty)
“Being beautifully made up to the height of glamour and sophistication makes the celeb feel confident and at their most beguiling. This combo is a heady brew for romance to flourish.”
She added: ” Rehearsals are long and intense, with contestants often spending more time with their dance partner than with their romantic partner. The physical effort, along with focused attention, releases feel-good hormones like endorphins and dopamine.
“This, combined with the bond needed to perform well together, can create deep emotional connections that sometimes turn into something more intimate.”
Jo also continued: “The heat is on when performing on Strictly. There’s public and media scrutiny as well as pressure to perform well and make your partner feel proud of you. For those who are single or in relationships that may already have some issues, whether conscious of them or not, there is comfort and reassurance in sharing the stress of the show with just one other person.
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Gorka Marquez and Gemma are the proud parents of two children (Image: Getty)
“That person is also on exactly the same page at the same time emotionally, which can result in personal and professional boundaries being blurred.”
Insights by BetMGM reveals that nearly 70% of romances formed during only became public after the show’s conclusion, with the 2009 series seeing the highest number of new romances.
Jo concluded: “With a year-long Strictly Curse hiatus, 2024 is a pivotal year to watch. Historically, curse-free periods have lasted no longer than two years and this could be the year when emotional connections start to complicate relationships once again.”
Ex-professional dancer , who spent 15 seasons on Strictly, is predicting that a romance will happen for one couple.
“Romance happens in every series,” he said. “There’s always someone who falls for somebody, whether it’s two contestants, two pros or pro and contestant that fall in love. Thirty people are all working of close proximity to each other. You’re bound to find two people that find each other attractive.”