"Strictly Come Dancing changed my life," declares Balvinder Sopal.
As the excitement builds for the final showdown among the last three couples on Strictly Come Dancing, recently eliminated semi-finalist Balvinder Sopal reflects on how the experience has profoundly impacted her life.
The talented EastEnders actress, hailing from Gillingham in Kent, faced a challenging period following the passing of her mother just before embarking on her dance journey. In her heartfelt words, Sopal described participating in Strictly as "a healing journey, far more beneficial than any counseling I could have received."
In an interview with BBC Radio Kent, she shared that the entire experience was "brilliant" and allowed her to tick off a significant goal from her bucket list. Speaking fondly about her late mother, who passed away in early 2024, Sopal said, "She was my biggest supporter."
"Last year was incredibly tough for me, but Strictly came into my life exactly when I needed it and truly saved me," she expressed.
Making history in the 21-year legacy of Strictly, Sopal and her dance partner Julian Caillon became the first couple ever to survive five dance-offs. Their journey ended on Sunday after they faced a sixth elimination round against West End star Amber Davies.
"I still crave the feel of the dance floor," Sopal remarked. "There are nights when I wake up wondering, 'What’s the waltz step again?' Everyone knows I’ve dreamed of this opportunity for the past 21 years."
Born and raised in the Medway towns, Sopal has portrayed Suki Panesar in EastEnders since 2020. She expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support she's received from her hometown, saying, "It fills my heart with immense joy and pride."
Sopal had long desired to learn to dance, and she believes that through Strictly, she has not only accomplished that dream but gained so much more. "This experience has transformed my entire perspective—how I view my body and what it is capable of," she explained.
"I experienced a constant state of happiness. It felt like I was floating, and I couldn’t believe I could feel so vibrant and alive."
The upcoming Strictly final will showcase incredible talent, featuring West End star Amber Davies, popular YouTuber George Clarke, and former Lioness and sports commentator Karen Carney.
Sopal commented on the final, stating, "It’s going to be an exhilarating event. All three finalists deserve the glitterball trophy. They have put together some outstanding performances."
Viewers can catch the thrilling final live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 19:00 GMT.
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