Patrick Robinson Strictly pressure can put strain on marriages

Strictly star Patrick Robinson has spoken of his shock at the break-up of fellow celeb Rachel Riley’s marriage.

The Countdown maths genius has split from her husband of just 16 months.

She was partnered by Russian hunk Pasha Kovalev on the show and it’s been reported that their close friendship was the final straw for husband Jamie Gilbert.

He was said to have “seethed with jealousy” over the time they spent not just dancing but socialising.

Patrick says he can understand how relationships can start.

“I’m really surprised by the news about Rachel, but Strictly does put lots of pressures on couples. When you’re dancing in close proximity then sometimes it can spill over.

“I’m not surprised that relationships can flourish. Or relationships with people’s partners can crash and suddenly they’ve gone off.

“Constantly physically touching can take its toll. We’re all human and you have to work hard to keep it professional.”

In the past boxer Joe Calzaghe broke up with his girlfriend after falling for pro dancer Kristina Rihanoff. They split earlier this year.

There was also speculation this week that Waterloo Road star Mark Benton, in the dance-off three times, was praying for an exit as he’s suffering badly with knee injuries.

“Does he want to go out? I don’t definitely know that,” said Patrick carefully.

“But it must be very tiring and disheartening for him to be in the dance-off every week.

“I feel for him. Waiting to find out if you’re in it is probably the most hideously awful moment in TV.

“It’s horrible and every week they stretch it out because of the drama. I don’t think any of us have got used to dealing with it.”

Mark turned 50 during this series and says that he’s “made all my goals”.

“I’ve achieved them all and every week is a bonus.

“I don’t listen to all the talk but everyone knows that Natalie is an incredible dancer and she’s the favourite as far as I can see.

“If I did win I think it’d be a huge tick for the oldies.

“Tony Jacklin said when he left that he didn’t think anyone over 50 will win Strictly because it’s a young person’s game.

“So it’d be unbelievable if I got anywhere near or even won it at 50.”