BBC Breakfast crew members got a little bit over-excited today, when they announced the sixth contestant to take part in this year’s Strictly Come Dancing is one of their own – Mike Bushell.
As they built up to the big unveiling, Mike – disguising himself behind a top hat and cheerleader-style pompoms – stepped out from a cloud of smoke to reveal himself…
Read more: BBC Breakfast’s Steph McGovern ridicules fan who criticised her accent
Only, it soon became apparent to everyone in the studio and those watching from home that WAY too much smoke had been released in all the pomp and ceremony.
The presenters laughed off the fact, as Mike chatted about his next big role, alongside guest Stacey Dooley who won the show last year.
But one viewer protested from home: “Okay, who was in charge of the BBC Breakfast smoke machine?!”
Looks like a valve has 'blown' on one of your cameras #bbcbreakfast
— Ken Chisholm (@tighabhinn) August 2, 2019
Ok, who was in charge of the @BBCBreakfast smoke machine?!
— Vicki (@outspreadwings) August 2, 2019
Have I suddenly developed cataracts overnight, or is the #bbcbreakfast studio on fire?
— simon alcock (@simongalcock) August 2, 2019
Read more: Strictly’s Catherine Tyldesley never danced before because of her size 22 figure
Another said: “Have I suddenly developed cataracts overnight, or is the BBC Breakfast studio on fire?”
A third joked: “Looks like a valve has ‘blown’ on one of your cameras BBC Breakfast.”
Many others joined the light-hearted joking about Mike’s notorious clumsiness – remember when he fell into that swimming pool? – and even commented on the fact his shoelaces were undone during the segment!
One cheeky viewer tweeted: “Mike Bushell will make Anne Widdecombe look like Ginger Rogers.”
— 😷 Mel Coleman 😷 (@melbob30) August 2, 2019
Mike is the sixth star confirmed for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing.
The 53-year-old sports presenter admits he thought the BBC had called the wrong person, when he was offered the chance to join the line-up, but he is no stranger to people thinking he has been on the Latin and ballroom show because he is often confused for presenter Chris Hollins.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast, he said: “It feels like a weird dream. I’ve known a few weeks.
“I thought they’d got the wrong person, genuinely.
“Because for years people have got me confused with Chris Hollins, who won in 2009.
“This happens every week, someone says, ‘Can I have a selfie?’ They’re in the middle of the selfie, ‘My partner loved you on Strictly’, and I’m thinking, ‘Do I say I’ve never been on ‘Strictly’ or do I keep quiet?'”
This is the moment #BBCBreakfast revealed the latest contestant on #StrictlyComeDancing 🕺@mikebreakfast @bbcstrictly pic.twitter.com/Ixu61rSpj5
— BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) August 2, 2019
Mike has managed to keep the news quiet from most people, but he had to tell his wife Emily, who he married in May.
He said: “I told my new wife, because she was wondering why I was doing funny moves around the lounge.
“We had the first dance at the wedding at the end of May but it was more jumping up and down really, so I wouldn’t really call it practice.”
He added: “I’m flying the flag for all dad dancers. It’ll be a steep learning curve.
“I’m not underestimating the physical challenge.”
He also said in a statement: “I am so excited to be joining this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve heard so many wonderful things from colleagues over the years so thrilled I’m now getting the chance.
“I know I will completely throw myself into the whole experience and I’m sure will love it from start to finish.
“I may have tried and profiled over 500 sports over the years in my Saturday morning BBC Breakfast slot but think the Strictly challenge could be the greatest. Bring on the glitter!”
Catherine Tyldesley, Saffron Barker, David James, Chris Ramsey and Emma Barton have also been confirmed this week.
What do you think of the Strictly line-up so far? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.