BBC Morning Live presenter Gethin Jones found himself in an awkward live television moment this week, requiring a swift change of topic after a guest's unexpected quip about Strictly Come Dancing's infamous "curse." The incident occurred during Tuesday's edition of the popular BBC One daytime programme, which saw Jones and co-host Louise Minchin return to screens for another action-packed episode.
An Unexpected Turn in the Conversation
The programme featured several notable guests including medical expert Dr Aziza, DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles, financial advisor Nick Stapleton, and Strictly Come Dancing professional Neil Jones. The conversation took an unexpected turn during a segment where the presenters were addressing viewers' personal dilemmas, specifically focusing on advice about making friends and meeting potential romantic partners.
Life choice expert Mavis Ackerley suggested dance classes as an excellent social opportunity, prompting Louise Minchin to share her own experience: "When I was young, single and in London, I used to go salsa and I loved it." Later in the show, Gethin Jones returned to this topic, reading a message from a viewer named Paul who had found similar success through dance classes.
The Awkward Moment Unfolds
As Jones attempted to conclude the segment with Paul's thoughtful message about the benefits of dance classes, Nick Knowles interjected with a surprising remark that caught everyone off guard. "There is no evidence of relationships starting on Strictly, is there?" Knowles quipped, directly referencing the long-standing Strictly Come Dancing "curse" phenomenon.
The studio atmosphere immediately shifted as all presenters and guests appeared visibly stunned by the unexpected comment. Gethin Jones demonstrated quick thinking and professional composure, immediately redirecting the conversation by looking directly into the camera and announcing: "Um Strictly fitness now with Neil. Queue the music."
The Aftermath and Professional Response
The camera then cut to Strictly professional Neil Jones, who appeared momentarily taken aback before responding with the diplomatic: "Well, on that note." The presenter's rapid topic change successfully navigated the potentially awkward moment, allowing the programme to continue smoothly with its scheduled fitness segment featuring the dance professional.
This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of live television broadcasting, where presenters must constantly demonstrate adaptability and quick thinking. The Strictly Come Dancing "curse" has become a well-documented phenomenon in British entertainment circles, referring to the tendency for contestants' existing relationships to end or new romantic connections to form with professional partners during their time on the popular dance competition.
The Strictly Curse in Context
Notable couples who have found love through the Strictly Come Dancing experience include documentary maker Stacey Dooley and professional dancer Kevin Clifton, actress Gemma Atkinson and dancer Gorka Marquez, and television presenter Rachel Riley with professional Pasha Kovalev. These high-profile relationships have contributed to the enduring public fascination with the so-called "curse" that Nick Knowles referenced during the broadcast.
BBC Morning Live continues to air weekdays from 9.30am on BBC One and the BBC iPlayer streaming service, providing viewers with a mix of lifestyle advice, celebrity interviews, and practical guidance on various topics. The programme's format, which combines pre-recorded segments with live studio interaction, inevitably creates moments of unpredictability that require presenters like Gethin Jones to think on their feet and maintain professional composure under pressure.
