EastEnders star James Bye and his wife Victoria have opened up about the rife speculation surrounding the Strictly Come Dancing curse after the soap star was eliminated from the show.
James was axed from the BBC One ballroom dancing competition at the end of October and was left fighting tears in his final moments on the show.
However, his wife Victoria has now discussed her fears surrounding his part in the star-studded competition after a number of past celebrities have seen their relationships crumble during or shortly after taking part in the show.
Victoria confessed to having had fears about the so-called curse as James worked closely with partner Amy Dowden in rehearsals for weeks on end.
During an appearance on Loose Women, Victoria admitted she initially grew ‘worried’ her husband would fall victim to the curse.
She told the ITV panel: “Do you know what? I’m not going to lie. I was really nervous. We've got a great relationship, we've been together for 16 years but these girls are gorgeous.
“They're in their 20's, they’ve got perky boobs. You know, they haven’t had three children.
“I was worried. I thought, 'God, he’s going to be spending all this time with this other girl'. You know, that is going to be quite a worry.
“But then I had to have a little word with myself. He's been working as an actor for many years, and I’ve seen him pick Lacey Turner up – who’s gorgeous – and snog her on a washing machine!”
Host Tess Daly congratulated James on his run on the BBC One show after he lost out in the dreaded dance-off to Fleur East.
Standing alongside his partner Amy Dowden, Tess reminded the actor of his initial priorities for competing in the show: to have fun and to make his three sons proud.
Immediately emotional, James replied: “Don't tell me that Tess,” as she insisted: “I think it's safe to say you've done that. You really have.”
James put his hands to his eyes, as he said: “Don't say that,” and Tess apologised at having made the star emotional.
Turning to his partner Amy, she told Tess: “I'm so proud of you James. You came on here to show your boys they can throw themselves into any challenge in life.”
Jokingly flippant, the soap star then replied: “What did I just say? I said don't bring the boys up.”
Amy insisted: “You're the best role model they could ever have as their dad. Honestly, I'm so proud. We've had so much fun.”
