Ashley Taylor Dawson on Strictly
Ashley Taylor Dawson admits competing on 'Strictly Come Dancing' was his idea of "hell" before he signed up.
The 'Hollyoaks' actor only agreed to take part in the celebrity dance contest because it is so popular, despite having no desire to learn the skills.
He said: "It was my idea of hell. But I've been offered reality shows before and never fancied them because of the fear factor.
"But 'Strictly's the biggest show on British TV, isn't it?"
Ashley was pleased when he was partnered with married professional Ola Jordan as it meant his fiancee Karen McKay - who recently gave birth to their second child, Mason, a brother for two-year-old Buddy - didn't feel so insecure.
He told heat magazine: "I was happy to be paired with Ola, especially when my missus was at home, pregnant and hormonal. That was hard. There were all of these stunning dancers and even I was intimidated by them at first.
"But I was glad when I got paired with Ola because she's married too. My wife and I have been out for dinner with her and James so she feels comfortable about everything. Not that there would have been a problem, obviously, but it helps with the insecurity.
"If it had been the other way round, I wouldn't have been able to deal with it. It would send me mental."