Michaela Strachan admits partner has ‘extreme concern’ over ITV Dancing on Ice stint: ‘Worst thing to do’

TV presenter Michaela Strachan, 58, has spoken candidly about the “extreme concern” expressed by her partner, Nick Chevallier, ahead of the new ITV Dancing on Ice series.

Strachan, who now lives in South Africa, is famed for her wildlife programming such as Springwatch and The Really Wild Show.

Strachan is set to dance with fan-favourite pro Mark Hanretty in his last outing as a pro on the long-running dance programme.

Reflecting on the competition ahead, Strachan declared: “I love a challenge and I enjoy fitness so to focus on something that will enable me to get fitter really appeals to me.”

Despite her driven attitude, the 58-year-old revealed that she is a “show girl at heart” and can’t wait to re-embrace that side of herself.

“I trained in musical theatre a very long time ago. I really enjoy performing so to be able to go back to that which is something I’ve not been able to do for a very long time really excites me,” she enthused.

“I think the creative element of the show is what I’ll enjoy most,” she told ITV.

Strachan’s thoughts on her fellow contestants are simply about looking forward to being part of the team, adding that “I don’t think I’ll view the other celebrities as competitors as I’m one of those people who competes against themself.”

However, her enthusiasm is matched with a nagging anxiety about injury from her partner Nick Chevallier.

She revealed the nature documentary director and cameraman had told her he was “extremely concerned” about her risking injury on the show.

“The first thing we did when I was asked to do the show was watch the accidents on YouTube which is probably the worst thing to do,” Strachan admitted.

Evidently her partner’s fear is having an effect as she conceded: “I’m of an age where it takes longer for me to mend so the thought of injury does concern me.”

“But this is the best year for me to be doing Dancing On Ice so the positives outweigh the few worries,” the presenter said defiantly.

Strachan explained her school friends also helped build up her confidence, reassuring her “how much I’d love the experience as they know just how much I’ll enjoy the performance element of it.”

“I’m sure they will all want to come and support me,” she added.

Regarding other supporters in the audience, Strachan explained that her son is also moving to the UK this year for university.

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“I’m glad that I’ll be closer to him than if I was home in South Africa,” she concluded touchingly.

Ahead of returning to the UK, Strachan had been training on the ice in Cape Town.