News
September 21, 2025
Strictly star detailed what it was truly like working with Jamie Borthwick before BBC axe
Michelle Tsiakkas, who danced with Jamie Borthwick in Strictly's 20th anniversary series, opened up about the working relationship she had with the former EastEnders star
Michelle Tsiakkas, the professional dancer who partnered with EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick on the 20th series of Strictly Come Dancing, has offered a glimpse behind the scenes, revealing what it was really like working with the Albert Square veteran before their journey on the BBC show came to an end.
While the pair's time on the dance floor may have been shorter than they hoped, Tsiakkas's insights paint a picture of a dedicated and enthusiastic student. Speaking in a recent interview, Tsiakkas emphasized Borthwick's commitment to learning and his positive attitude throughout the demanding rehearsal process. "Jamie was an absolute joy to work with," she stated. "He came in every day ready to give it his all, and his enthusiasm was infectious."
She went on to explain that Borthwick, despite his acting background, approached the challenge of learning intricate dance routines with humility and a willingness to learn. "He wasn't afraid to ask questions, and he was always striving to improve," Tsiakkas revealed. "We spent hours perfecting the steps, and he was incredibly dedicated to getting it right."
The dancer also highlighted the importance of their strong working relationship in navigating the pressures of the competition. "Strictly is a very intense experience," she explained. "You're spending hours together every day, learning a new skill under a lot of pressure. It's so important to have a supportive and positive partnership, and Jamie and I definitely had that."
Although their journey on the show ended sooner than either of them would have liked, Tsiakkas made it clear that she cherished the experience and valued the opportunity to work with Borthwick. "I learned so much from Jamie, not just about performance, but also about dedication and resilience," she concluded. "He's a true professional and a genuinely lovely person, and I'm so grateful to have shared the Strictly experience with him." Tsiakkas's words offer a heartwarming insight into the hard work and camaraderie that goes on behind the glitter and glamour of Strictly Come Dancing.
While the pair's time on the dance floor may have been shorter than they hoped, Tsiakkas's insights paint a picture of a dedicated and enthusiastic student. Speaking in a recent interview, Tsiakkas emphasized Borthwick's commitment to learning and his positive attitude throughout the demanding rehearsal process. "Jamie was an absolute joy to work with," she stated. "He came in every day ready to give it his all, and his enthusiasm was infectious."
She went on to explain that Borthwick, despite his acting background, approached the challenge of learning intricate dance routines with humility and a willingness to learn. "He wasn't afraid to ask questions, and he was always striving to improve," Tsiakkas revealed. "We spent hours perfecting the steps, and he was incredibly dedicated to getting it right."
The dancer also highlighted the importance of their strong working relationship in navigating the pressures of the competition. "Strictly is a very intense experience," she explained. "You're spending hours together every day, learning a new skill under a lot of pressure. It's so important to have a supportive and positive partnership, and Jamie and I definitely had that."
Although their journey on the show ended sooner than either of them would have liked, Tsiakkas made it clear that she cherished the experience and valued the opportunity to work with Borthwick. "I learned so much from Jamie, not just about performance, but also about dedication and resilience," she concluded. "He's a true professional and a genuinely lovely person, and I'm so grateful to have shared the Strictly experience with him." Tsiakkas's words offer a heartwarming insight into the hard work and camaraderie that goes on behind the glitter and glamour of Strictly Come Dancing.
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World