Angela Rippon, the beloved 79-year-old broadcaster, captured the hearts of the nation during her appearance on last year’s Strictly Come Dancing. However, she had to step back from the Strictly Live Tour due to a “major medical meltdown.” In a recent video, Angela opened up about her experience and explained the reason behind her absence.
During the tour, Angela contracted an infection while in Liverpool, which later affected her breathing as the infection traveled to her chest. This was a particularly frightening experience for Angela, who suffers from asthma. On the evening of the cha-cha-cha performance, the infection triggered a severe asthma attack, causing Angela to stop breathing while on the dancefloor.
The asthma attack left Angela feeling like a “ragdoll on the dancefloor.” Paramedics rushed to her aid, providing her with oxygen once she left the stage. Although Angela felt well enough to continue the tour and traveled to the next stop in Leeds, the “company doctor” advised against it, concerned about the strength of the infection. Angela was then prescribed two days of bed rest.
Ready to Return
Despite the setback, Angela reassured her fans that she felt “dancing fit” and was eager to get back on the dancefloor. She even joked about finding her professional partner and getting back to work. The outpouring of support from fans and fellow Strictly stars, such as Angela Scanlon, showed the admiration and encouragement she received during this challenging period.
Angela Rippon made history as the oldest ever contestant on Strictly Come Dancing. In an interview with HELLO!, she revealed that she never focused on her age but instead concerned herself with mastering the dance steps. She shared an encounter with a woman in a grocery store, who expressed gratitude for Angela’s representation of older women. Many women, according to the stranger, often feel invisible due to their age and hair color. Angela’s determination to prove that age is just a number resonated with countless individuals.
Although Angela’s time on Strictly Come Dancing was cut short due to the health setback, she left a lasting impression on both the judges and the audience. Her elegance and incredible splits amazed everyone, showcasing her talent and unwavering dedication to the competition. Her journey serves as an inspiration to individuals of all ages, proving that one can pursue their passion regardless of societal expectations.
Angela Rippon’s experience during the Strictly Come Dancing tour was a rollercoaster of emotions. From a major medical meltdown to receiving overwhelming support from fans, Angela’s resilience and determination shine through. Age did not hinder her from showcasing her talent and captivating an entire nation. Angela Rippon’s journey will always be remembered as a testament to the power of pursuing one’s dreams, no matter the obstacles that may arise along the way.