Strictly Come Dancing’s Emma Barton Downplays Previous Comments About Having ‘Too Much Experience’ For Show

Strictly Come Dancing star Emma Barton has distanced herself from previous comments she made about having “too much experience” to take part on the show. 

Back in 2009, the EastEnders actress suggested her time in a touring production of Chicago meant she would have an unfair advantage, given her level of dance experience, if she were to take part in Strictly.

However, Emma – best known as Albert Square’s Honey Mitchell – has now insisted she has “never done anything” like what she’ll be doing when she hits the Strictly dance floor. 

Speaking to HuffPost UK and other journalists about her past comments, she said: “That was 10 years ago. I think at the time because I was on my feet doing a show, that’s probably why I said that at the time. But now I’m in it, I have never done anything that we’re going to be starting to do. 

“I’m very good at a jazz hand, I’ve got musicality, but really, I’ve never been in hold or done any of these things at all.”

“It will be a new thing,” she insisted. 

Emma previously told the Birmingham Mail in 2009: “I was approached by the producers but nothing came of it. When I saw it I thought ‘I’m quite glad I’m not in it, it looks exhausting and nerve-wracking’. 

“I might consider doing it, though after all this time dancing in Chicago, maybe it wouldn’t be fair. I would feel a bit like I shouldn’t take part because I have too much experience.”

Emma confirmed she will be fitting in training with her new dance partner around EastEnders’ hectic filming schedule, but admitted she will only have to “walk across the road”, as the soap films just metres from the Strictly studio in Elstree, Hertfordshire. 

Of the tips she’s received from fellow EastEnders cast members who’ve competed on the show before, Emma said: “The lovely Kellie [Bright] said, basically, remember it. Don’t fall down the stairs. Eat well, make sure you rest.

“Jake Wood said if in doubt, shake those hips like he did. And I think Jake did really well. 

“We’re a lovely family in EastEnders and they’re just really excited for whoever is doing it. Every time someone passes you on set it’s ‘Da da da da.... [the Strictly theme]’ - OK, I’ve heard it already!”

Strictly Come Dancing launches on Saturday at 7.10pm on BBC One.