I’m a body language expert – the Strictly stars who could face an early exit after poor chemistry with their partners
A BODY language expert has predicted who faces an early exit from Strictly Come Dancing.
Based on their initial interaction during last night’s launch show, Darren Stanton says two couples failed to have any chemistry after partnering up.
Speaking on behalf of Betfair Bingo, Darren explained: “Verbal and non-verbal communication is the key to success for any couple.
Observing the level of connection between a pair when they first meet reveals whether or not there is an instantaneous spark and a foundation for a connection to form – if present, this can indicate who in this year’s Strictly competition might progress faster.
“When we meet somebody new for the first time, it can take days, weeks or even months to build a strong connection.
“These guys are being propelled together in a very close and unnatural situation so the initial stages of their interactions are hugely important.”
Last night, viewers were told which professional dancer was paired up with which celebrity.
Some branded the pairs “fake” after delivering “unbelievable” reactions of happiness when each couple was revealed.
Judging the couples on their body language as they interacted with their new partner, Darren says Loose Women’s Kaye Adams, TV presenter Helen Skelton and comedian Ellie Taylor are most at risk.
Kaye Adams and Kai Widdrington
Darren explains: “From the outset, it’s clear to see that Kaye is the least confident out of all the contestants.
“She is clearly pushing herself out of her comfort zone, despite feeling like a fish out of water, and taking part in Strictly will see her relinquish the control she is used to as a TV anchor and presenter.
“When partnered with Kai, there wasn’t any tactile interaction between the two. She didn’t hug him and appeared reserved in her body language at times.
“We saw Kaye rubbing her hands – a self-reassurance gesture a person often makes when they are feeling anxious or unsure in a certain environment.
“There wasn’t that initial burst of energy between the pair, suggesting there is a lack of rapport there.
“Unless they can build on this, it could lead to an early exit for Kaye and Kai.”
Helen Skelton and Gorka Marquez
“On initial interactions, there didn’t appear to be much of a strong connection between Helen and Gorka,” admitted Darren.
“It could be that Helen is not that tactile as a person or around new people, or the presence of nerves could have led to her holding back and appearing more reserved than usual.
“She and Gorka appeared to lack that initial spark and excitement that previous pairings during the launch show enjoyed.
“Of course, it’s very early days and plenty of time for a deeper level of connection to form, but based on first impressions, the lack of rapport could hinder how far Helen and Gorka progress this series.”
Ellie Taylor and Johannes Radebe
Meanwhile Ellie was ecstatic to be partnered with her first choice, Joahannes, but wasn’t able to disguise her nerves.
Darren said: “Ellie appeared nervous and hesitant during her first appearance, again we didn’t see a huge amount of tactileness between her and Johannes, but there were lots of smiles suggesting she was putting on a brave face and determined to throw herself into the experience.
“With Ellie, it will come down to whether she can step outside of being a professional comedian and put all of her preconceived notions to one side, allowing herself to really give the contest her all.
“After analysing the first episode, she doesn’t appear to be one of the strongest contestants this year.”