Alexandra Burke is doing ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ to make her late mother "proud".
The 29-year-old singer tragically lost her mother Melissa Bell – who was formerly the lead singer of the Grammy-winning R&B group Soul II Soul – at the end of August when she passed away aged 53.
And although the ‘Broken Heels’ hitmaker is heartbroken, she has said the loss has pushed her to succeed on the BBC Latin and ballroom dance competition, as it was always her mother’s "dream" for her to take part.
Speaking to The Radio Times, Alexandra said: "My being on the show was a dream of hers, as well as mine, so doing the best I can on Strictly means a lot to me. My mum was my biggest critic. And she has turned me into a perfectionist; everything I do is for her. So when I step on to that dance floor on Saturday night I want to do the best I can and make her proud."
Alexandra has been paired with professional dancer Gorka Marquez, and will take to the dance floor for the first time when the show returns from its two week break on Saturday (23.09.17).
It’s not the first time the ‘Hallelujah’ singer has insisted she won’t be pulling out of the show either, as she released a statement shortly after her mother’s death in which she stated her performances on ‘Strictly’ will go ahead as planned.
She said at the time: "Mummy has always been my biggest supporter and was over the moon when I told her I was doing Strictly. It was always a dream of hers that I would one day be part of the show and I know that she would have wanted me to carry on xx (sic)"
Alexandra confirmed the devastating news last month with a statement on her Instagram page.
It read: "It is with the heaviest and saddest of hearts that the family inform you our beautiful, funny and loving mum, Melissa Bell has passed away.
"Our beautiful mother gained her wings on Monday 28th August 2017, a day that has changed our lives forever. We will never forget her unconditional love, support, charisma, strength and courage throughout her life.
"We are eternally proud and thankful to call her our mummy. We would be grateful if you could respect our privacy at this difficult time. Thank you. The Burke Family. (sic)"
Alexandra Burke to make late mum ‘proud’ on Strictly Come Dancing
