Strictly's Vicky Pattison breaks down in tears at launch: 'I thought I was doing an alright job'

Terrified Vicky Pattison says she is so 'overwhelmed' ahead of curtain up on Strictly Come Dancing that she has been crying in the bath after rehearsals.

In 2023, the Geordie Shore star was diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which can floor her physically and emotionally every month. It means the reality star’s anxiety will be heightened before anyone has even danced a step because with the health condition bringing on panic attacks, insomnia and exhaustion.

Vicky says she fears being stuck in her 'own head' and also applying too much pressure on herself to achieve high scores ahead of the start of the show. After winning 2015’s I’m a Celebrity and reaching the final of Celebrity MasterChef in 2019, the reality star is ready to tackle the challenge head on.

READ MORE: Dani Dyer fears Strictly Come Dancing fans will be disappointed to see her on show

READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing 'struggled to get talent' for 2025 season after string of scandals

She said: 'I'm just out of my comfort zone and it's really scary when you're out of your comfort zone and I am a bit overwhelmed. I thought I was doing an alright job of hiding it but obviously, I'm not. I think it's because I have wanted to do this show for so long and I am a big fan.

"You're asking me in my nearly 40s to get out of my comfort zone and do something that I've never done before on a massive stage," she told MailOnline. "I know what people are expecting to see, they want the razzle dazzle, and I am putting a lot of pressure on myself ultimately. At the end of the rehearsal last night, I went and cried in the bath."

Vicky has spoken out about living with PMDD, and how hugely supportive Strictly has been as she struggled through rehearsals. “It affects me in the 10 days before my period,” she admits. “That is panic attacks, anxiety, insomnia, exhaustion and in some moments, there can be suicidal thoughts. Like every woman dealing with it, I’m just riding the wave.

“There are moments I can be OK and be the bright, shiny version of myself that everyone expects, and then there are moments where I’m debilitated by it. Now, everything feels heightened and stressful. I’ve been burying my head in the sand a little bit saying it’s ages away, but it’s not. I’m learning as I go. Strictly take things into ­consideration.”

Joining Vicky on the dancefloor are Doctor Who actress Alex ­Kingston, model Ellie Goldstein, Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and EastEnder Balvinder Sopal. YouTuber George Clarke, drag queen La Voix, former England rugby ace Chris Robshaw and The Apprentice’s Tom Skinner are also taking part.

Neighbours favourite Stefan Dennis, Lioness Karen Carney, ex-Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope, footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, reality star Dani Dyer and TV host Ross King. They will be judged by Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke.

Vicky says show bosses have picked the perfect partner for her – a person who can help calm her nerves. He will be revealed on Saturday’s launch show. “They have found me someone that is kind and measured and patient and supportive," she says ahead of kick-off.

"There are people with big energy and that’s amazing, but that would have exacerbated how I was feeling. I hope that when I get the hang of it, I’ll be less nervous. I hope I’m blessed to be here long enough to get a few shows under my belt.”

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday for its launch show.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Threads.