Melanie Walters Backed by Gavin and Stacey Co-stars for Strictly Debut
The actress, known for her role as Gwen West, expressed excitement and nerves about joining the dance competition.
Melanie Walters, beloved for her role as Gwen West in the BBC comedy Gavin and Stacey, is preparing for her debut on Strictly Come Dancing, with support from her former co-stars.
Walters, 64, who is partnered with professional dancer Aljaz Skorjanec, described the pairing as a "dream come true" following their first performance at the show's launch. She shared that her Gavin and Stacey castmates have sent "lovely messages," particularly Joanna Page, who expressed significant excitement for her.
Describing the experience as "mind-boggling," Walters admitted that joining the series is "a bit out of my comfort zone" as she typically avoids public-facing appearances like panel or quiz shows. However, she felt compelled to "tick that box" and fulfill a long-held desire to "learn to dance properly."
"Getting weekly masterclasses. You couldn't ask for anything better," Walters stated, anticipating the rigorous training.
Walters has a long career in television and theatre. She appeared in Gavin and Stacey from its inception in 2007 and reprised her role for a 2024 Christmas special. Her television credits also include roles in Coronation Street, Beyond Paradise, Being Human, Hollyoaks, Biff And Chip, and Doc Martin. On film, she has appeared in Submarine, Resistance, High Tide, and Save The Cinema. Her stage work encompasses productions such as The Importance Of Being Earnest, Blood Brothers, Twelfth Night, Educating Rita, and What's New Pussycat?. Additionally, she recently featured in two series of the BBC crime mystery show Death Valley.