Helen Skelton has opened up about why her time on Strictly Come Dancing still means so much to her — hinting it came at a time she needed it most
Helen Skelton reveals why she is “grateful” for her Strictly Come Dancing journey
Well-known TV presenter Helen Skelton has recently shared candid and emotional reflections on her time taking part in the hit BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. For her, it was far more than just a dance competition—it carried a much deeper meaning, especially in terms of how it changed the way she viewed her body and herself after giving birth.
Helen Skelton joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, partnered with professional dancer Gorka Márquez. The pair impressed audiences and made it all the way to the final, finishing as runners-up behind Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal, who lifted the prestigious Glitterball Trophy. However, for Skelton, the greatest value of the experience wasn’t the result, but the opportunity to reflect on herself after a turbulent period in her life.
Speaking at the launch event for JD Williams’ summer collection, the presenter recalled her first moment stepping into the show’s fitting room—something she says she will never forget. “I was handed this tiny, sparkly dress. I was only seven months postpartum at the time, and I really didn’t know where I was at,” she said.
It was at that moment that Skelton began confronting the physical changes after childbirth—something many women go through, but not all feel ready to talk about. She humorously yet honestly described a conversation with the show’s costume designer, Vicky Gill. “She adjusted my outfit, supported my body, and we had a very real, honest chat. I’ve never felt so grateful,” Skelton shared.
The atmosphere in the room soon became lively as other contestants joined in. Some who had never had children were surprised by the realities of postpartum changes, while those who had experienced motherhood shared their stories openly and comfortably. These seemingly private conversations created a sense of connection and relief, helping Skelton realize she was not alone.
The presenter didn’t shy away from discussing how the body changes over time—especially after having children—approaching the topic with humor and realism. Her openness has resonated deeply with the public, particularly with mothers.
Helen Skelton is now a mother of three children, whom she shares with her ex-husband Richie Myler. Her youngest daughter, Elsie, is now four years old. Since becoming a mother, Skelton has frequently spoken about her parenting journey, as well as the physical and emotional changes she has experienced.
Notably, her perspective on her body has completely shifted. Instead of focusing on “flaws” such as loose skin or a changed figure, she chooses to be grateful for what her body has achieved. “I no longer look at my body and think about the imperfect parts. I just think how lucky I am to have healthy children,” she said.
She also emphasized how proud she is of having breastfed all three of her children. For Skelton, her body is no longer something to be judged purely on appearance, but a testament to her meaningful journey through motherhood. “I see my body in a completely different way. I’m grateful that it still works, that it allows me to live and take care of my family,” she added.
This perspective reflects the positive message Skelton hopes to share: change is natural, and instead of resisting it, people should learn to accept and appreciate themselves. She acknowledged that over time, the body may not be what it once was, but what matters is that it continues to function and support us through every stage of life.
Her journey on Strictly Come Dancing therefore marks not only a milestone in her television career, but also a turning point that helped her change her mindset, regain confidence, and learn to love herself. That is why she says she is “grateful” for the experience—not for the fame or achievements, but for the profound personal growth it brought her.
Strictly Come Dancing is currently airing on BBC One and is also available to stream on BBC iPlayer, continuing to be one of the most beloved entertainment shows in the UK.
