Coleen Nolan says she's a Strictly no go - claiming 'someone there does not like me'

Coleen Nolan has ruled herself out of returning to Strictly Come Dancing, citing a lack of invitation despite her long-standing desire to participate. In a recent interview during her This Is Me one-woman show at Bush Hall in west London’s Shepherd’s Bush, the Loose Women panelist revealed that she believes someone within the production team harbours negative feelings toward her. While she dismissed the possibility that it was the show’s notoriously tough judge, Craig Revel Horwood, she expressed her disappointment at not being invited to take part. Nolan, a reality TV veteran who won Celebrity Big Brother in 2017 and placed fourth on Dancing on Ice in 2009, has recently found romance with a man she refers to only as “Ryan.” She claimed that her previously problematic hip condition, potentially hindering her dancing ability, has improved since meeting him. “They [my hips] are probably better now I have met Ryan,” she said, hinting at how personal happiness might influence her physical well-being. Nolan, married twice, first to actor Shane Richie and later to Ray Fensome, is candid about her past relationships. She joked that if given the choice between marrying her ex-husbands or her new partner, she would opt for Ryan. “I would probably avoid Shane and Ray… but they are two of my best friends now. I would snog and marry Ryan,” she added, showcasing her trademark wit. Reflecting on her experiences in dating shows, Nolan shared her frustration over not being selected on Celebs Go Dating. She described the moment when potential suitors failed to raise their hands as “mortifying” and admitted that her ego took a hit. However, she remained optimistic about her current relationship, calling it “the best one.” Beyond her personal life, Nolan voiced concerns about the changes to Loose Women’s format. The show, which she has been a part of for 26 years, has transitioned to a 30-week schedule and removed the live studio audience. She lamented the loss of audience interaction, stating, “I hate not having an audience. I hate it. It is really hard, as we don’t get a reaction about anything.” Additionally, she noted that the smaller studio space and shared setup among multiple morning shows have affected the dynamic of the program. Nolan also touched on the idea that Loose Women might be “cursed,” referencing several notable guests who passed away shortly after appearing on the show. These included icons like Goldie Hawn, Whoopi Goldberg, Will Smith, and Michael Douglas. Despite this, she stressed that the cast remains a close-knit group, calling them “my second family.” Even if the show were to end, she assured fans that the bond would endure. In support of her This Morning co-host Ruth Langsford, who publicly announced her divorce from partner Eamonn Holmes, Nolan praised Ruth’s strength and resilience. She acknowledged Ruth’s decision to keep her emotions private and commended her for maintaining dignity amid a difficult situation. Nolan’s career has been marked by both triumph and challenges. Initially warned of the isolating nature of television work, she has built lasting friendships throughout her journey. She recalled a comment from a renowned director on her first day on screen, who told her, “Darling, there are no friends in television… only opportunities.” She initially dismissed the remark, but over time, she came to appreciate the camaraderie she has developed. Among her many accomplishments, Nolan considers the 2018 ITV special The Real Full Monty: Ladies’ Night, which earned an Emmy Award, as her greatest achievement. The show featured celebrities stripping down to raise awareness for cancer, and Nolan reflected on its impact, saying, “I loved making that show and winning the Emmy, it’s my pride and joy. The Full Monty saved a lot of people's lives.” She regretted the show’s cancellation, attributing it to financial constraints.