Chris McCausland, the comedian and Strictly Come Dancing’s first-ever blind contestant, 

has opened up about an interesting moment behind the scenes of his journey on the popular BBC One dance show. 

In the latest episode of their podcast *Winning Isn’t Everything*, Chris and his professional dance partner Dianne Buswell 

shared some unexpected details about their first performance together during the 2024 series.

Back in December, Chris and Dianne’s emotional win left fans teary-eyed as they lifted the coveted Glitterball trophy, 

a remarkable achievement that marked the end of an incredible 13-week journey. 

But, like most Strictly stories, it wasn’t without its challenges and behind-the-scenes drama, even before the public saw their dazzling performance. 

Chris and Dianne, who had only met a few weeks before their first live show in September, were paired together in a season that saw many fans rooting for them. They quickly became one of the most talked-about partnerships on the show. But according to Chris, things didn’t always go smoothly when it came to choosing the music for their first-ever dance.

In the *Winning Isn’t Everything* podcast, Chris recalled how their first dance, a Cha Cha Cha, wasn’t always going to be performed to the song that fans eventually saw. “Originally, we weren’t going to do the Cha Cha Cha,” Chris shared, adding that the producers had considered a different number for them. However, Dianne quickly stepped in to set the record straight. “We were always going to do the Cha Cha Cha, Chris, but we weren’t going to do that song,” Dianne clarified, referring to the Beatles hit *Twist and Shout*, which eventually became the soundtrack to their unforgettable performance.

The moment became a bit of a lighthearted revelation during their conversation, with Chris asking Dianne to remind him of the original song they were supposed to dance to, prompting Dianne to admit that she had “kicked up a fuss” about the change. The reason for the fuss? It turns out, they had originally planned to perform to *Loco in Acapulco* by The Four Tops, a choice that, in hindsight, Dianne wasn’t entirely convinced about. 

Her determination led to the song swap, with the iconic *Twist and Shout* providing the perfect backdrop for their lively, 60s-inspired routine. Fans were quickly won over by their dynamic performance, which included flares, swing dresses, and all the psychedelic flair that embodied the era. 

Dianne admitted in the podcast, “I did, I thought, ‘Oh God, here we go. The first dance, and she’s kicking up a fuss already.’” She continued by confirming that the song change was something she felt passionate about. The swap to *Twist and Shout* was certainly a hit with viewers, who couldn’t help but appreciate the energy and fun they brought to the ballroom.

The reaction from fans on social media was overwhelmingly positive, with many saying that the insight into their rehearsal room drama gave them a fresh perspective on the performance. One fan, @kathrynannebaddley, commented, “Did anyone immediately go to re-watch the cha cha cha after this podcast and watched it in a slightly different way after this week’s inside info from the studio and rehearsal room?”

Chris and Dianne’s backstage banter and candid conversation about their first dance have only added to the charm of their podcast, which has already become a favorite among Strictly fans. Their chemistry, both on and off the dancefloor, has clearly resonated with listeners, with one fan (@whatsthebigwhoop24) praising their humor: “I loved the podcast as I always do. You both make me howl with laughter each and every episode.”

Reflecting on the entire Strictly experience, it’s clear that Chris and Dianne’s journey was filled with challenges, triumphs, and some memorable moments behind the scenes. From their initial meeting to winning the Glitterball, their connection grew into something much more than just a partnership for a television show. Their podcast, *Winning Isn’t Everything*, now offers fans even more insight into their dynamic, showcasing their genuine friendship and giving listeners a closer look at the rollercoaster that was their Strictly journey.

As for the first performance? Dianne’s “fuss” definitely paid off—*Twist and Shout* is now forever associated with one of the most unique and emotional stories in Strictly history.

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