‘Strictly Come Dancing’ star Darcey Bussell admits she will have a "soft spot" for some of this year’s contestants.
The 45-year-old judge has said she is delighted with the diverse line-up for the current series, and explained it is down to a mix of "very strong personalities" and "beautiful" stars.
She told the Daily Express newspaper’s Saturday magazine: "There are some very strong personalities this year, which I really enjoy.
"There are also some very beautiful people! Will I have a soft spot for any? Of course!"
Darcey insisted the dance competition gets more difficult for the celebrities every year because the bar is raised each series, but she has confidence in the competitors.
She added: "Every year it gets tougher for the celebrities because of what you have seen in the past series.
"But all of this year’s celebrities can do something, which is a massive bonus. When you already have that, it’s then about believing in yourself."
She also discussed the pressure the stars are under, and admitted she tries to be "sensitive" to their nerves.
She said "I am still incredibly sensitive to the contestants’ nerves. They are literally shaking in their shoes in those first few weeks and you do sense that.
"You just want them to remember the advice you give them, so that their confidence comes out the following week."
Darcey Bussell has ‘soft spot’ for Strictly Come Dancing contestants
