Strictly Come Dancing Star Says It’s ‘Not for Me’ as He Turns Down Return After ‘Incident’

Larry Lamb, famous for his role as Mick Shipman in the beloved British sitcom *Gavin and Stacey*, has made the decision to not return to the popular dance competition, *Strictly Come Dancing*.

His experience during the 2022 Christmas Special was both memorable and challenging, leading him to conclude that the high-stakes atmosphere of the main series “is not for me.”

Despite achieving a commendable score of 31 out of 40 with his professional partner Nadiya Bychkova, Lamb faced significant pressures backstage, which culminated in him having a “meltdown” just moments before stepping onto the dance floor.

Behind the Scenes: A Difficult Pre-Performance Experience

In a candid reflection on his time at *Strictly Come Dancing*, Larry shared that the pre-performance jitters proved to be too overwhelming for him.

He described feeling a wave of panic wash over him, leaving him struggling to remember his routine just thirty minutes before their big moment.

This experience was indicative of the intense pressure that contestants often feel, particularly in a high-profile competition such as this.

Despite his anxiety, Larry was grateful for the support provided by Nadiya, who he praised as a talented teacher capable of helping contestants navigate the tumultuous emotions that accompany live performances.

He mentioned that their partnership brought him some joy, and while he enjoyed dancing with Nadiya, the toll that the entire experience took on his mental well-being was significant enough to deter him from considering a full series return.

Instead, Larry expressed admiration for other contestants, noting that some of his friends, including his *Gavin and Stacey* co-stars like Alison Steadman, might be better suited for the rigors of the show.

Their natural rhythm and enthusiasm for dancing could potentially bring a joyous energy to the competition.

The Impact of Stress in Competitive Dancing

The realm of competitive dancing, particularly in a format like *Strictly Come Dancing*, goes beyond mere performance; it demands a robust mental state, physical endurance, and an ability to manage public expectations.

For many contestants, the fear of failure can become an insurmountable obstacle.

For Larry, this was exemplified during his brief time on the show, where he encountered difficulties in coping with the immense pressure to perform perfectly under scrutiny.

Life on a reality competition show can be a double-edged sword; while it offers fame, camaraderie, and a chance for personal growth, it can also expose participants to severe stress.

Many who have participated in similar talent shows share their struggles with anxiety and mental health, and Larry’s experience echoes these sentiments.

By openly discussing his meltdown, he sheds light on the hidden challenges that come with stepping into the spotlight.

The Future for Larry Lamb After Strictly

Though he won’t be returning to the dance floor anytime soon, Larry Lamb is not stepping away from the public eye.

He is currently involved in **’The Sipping Forecast,’** an exciting initiative in partnership with Greene King Pubs.

This campaign is designed to enhance the experiences of pub-goers, focusing particularly on creating enjoyable moments in pub gardens regardless of the weather

The initiative even includes a generous giveaway of 100,000 free pints to patrons on rainy days, making it a great reason for people to gather and enjoy the local pub scene.

As he navigates this new chapter of his career, Larry remains a beloved figure among fans of *Gavin and Stacey* and will continue to engage with them through various projects and appearances.

While he may bow out of *Strictly Come Dancing*, his contributions to entertainment and community spirit are far from over.

He has graciously emphasized the joy of his performance while acknowledging the limits of his comfort zone within the competitive atmosphere of reality television.

Ultimately, Larry Lamb’s decision to step back from *Strictly Come Dancing* highlights the importance of mental health and self-awareness in high-demand situations.

While many may revel in the excitement of the show, it’s important to recognize when something isn’t the right fit.

If you’re looking to follow Larry’s latest ventures or want to explore more about *Strictly Come Dancing*, make sure to keep an eye on his upcoming projects and the fun campaigns he’s involved in.