Brendan Cole, a prominent figure from BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing," has opened up about his financial experiences throughout his career. Cole, who participated in the show from 2004 to 2017, detailed how his earnings from the popular dance competition evolved over the years.

Initially, Cole received a flat fee of £11,000 for his participation in "Strictly Come Dancing." He noted that while his professional and personal partner at the time earned approximately £120,000 annually from the circuit, his early "Strictly" pay was considerably less. Over time, the remuneration for professionals saw incremental increases, rising from £11,000 to £51,000 by the end of his tenure in 2017. However, Cole expressed frustration that newer professionals joining the show were often paid the same amount as him.

Cole also highlighted that celebrities' earnings on the show tended to increase with their progression through the competition. He recounted an instance in 2011 where he intentionally ensured singer Lulu was eliminated early, preventing her from reaching the halfway point of the series and thus qualifying for a higher fee. He stated, "With this in mind, in 2011, I made it my life’s work to ensure Lulu, the singer, didn’t get to Blackpool... and qualify for a raised fee."

Beyond "Strictly," Cole has engaged in various entertainment ventures that offered different financial rewards. He mentioned appearing on "Love Island" in 2006, for which he was paid between £30,000 and £40,000, a significantly higher sum than his "Strictly" earnings at the time.

Cole identified the period immediately after leaving "Strictly" in 2017 as his most financially successful year. With his "Strictly" commitments, which included the show and its UK tour, no longer consuming six months of his year, he was free to pursue his own touring shows, sometimes earning five-figure, and occasionally six-figure, sums.

Conversely, Cole described the COVID-19 pandemic as his worst financial year. He stated that the government's restrictions on the live entertainment industry led to a year and a half without any work. This period was particularly challenging as he had not saved adequately, facing financial burdens including private school fees for his two children and three mortgages.

Cole shared some of his significant financial decisions, including purchasing a flat in Parsons Green, west London, in 2008. Despite initial fears during an economic downturn, he sold the property seven years later for a profit of £290,000. He also invested in four off-plan properties in Manchester and Liverpool, which ultimately yielded no real return, calling it his "biggest financial mistake."

Looking ahead, Cole expressed a desire to support his children financially by offering guidance on wise financial decisions, rather than expecting them to rely on him for handouts in their adult lives. He has also made provisions for a pension, though he found it inaccessible during his time of need.

Cole also offered his hypothetical perspective on fiscal policy. If appointed Chancellor, he proposed eliminating income tax for individuals earning £50,000 or less, believing this would stimulate spending and business growth. He also suggested removing VAT on school fees.

Cole's current financial priority remains his children's education, for which he is committed to working diligently. He is also preparing for a 30-date UK tour, "The Legends in Vegas: After Hours," with fellow professional dancers.