Former Olympian Harry Aikines-Aryeetey moved to tears dancing on Strictly Come Dancing after overcoming a life-threatening injury.

Former Olympian and Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey was moved to tears during his first live performance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2025, sharing that a serious injury the previous year had left him doubting he’d ever walk or run again. Dancing a cha cha to Salt-N-Pepa’s “Push It” with partner Karen Hauer, he called the moment a profound personal victory and a dream come true. The performance earned a score of 19, with judges noting his emotional impact and resilience. The episode, aired on BBC One and iPlayer, also featured other celebrities, including rugby player Chris Robshaw and model Ellie Goldstein, the first contestant with Down’s syndrome on the main series. No results were revealed that night, with scores carrying over to the next episode.