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STRICTLY Come Dancing's Chris McCausland has opened up about the heartbreaking reason he previously turned down the show.

Popular comedian Chris, 47, is the beloved BBC show's first ever blind contestant.

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Strictly star Chris McCausland has opened up about why he previously declined to join the showCredit: PA
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The comedian - who is Strictly's first blind contestant - is partnered with Dianne BuswellCredit: BBC
a man stands in front of a wall that says this morning
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Chris is well known for his appearances on panel shows including Would I Lie To You? and Have I Got News For YouCredit: Rex

In June, The Sun exclusively reported Chris' involvement in the latest series - and which was confirmed in August.

Speaking to , however, the star addressed declining to join the show twice in the past.

Chris revealed: "I was resistant to the idea for a while.

"I said no a few times – to last year's series and the Christmas special.

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"One reason was for self-preservation. I didn’t think I could do it, because I literally couldn’t see what’s expected of me.

"And because I don't watch it, I don't have an attachment to the format."

He added: "But I'd rather do something I had no knowledge of than make a show I knew everything about.

"I'm good at making comedy out of failure, but I'm going to take this seriously."

Chris has been partnered with Australian pro dancer Dianne Buswell, who's previously worked with Joe Sugg, Tyler West and Bobby Brazier to name a few.

And the pair's first performance seemed to impress a large number of the show's audience.

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Taking to X, one fan wrote: "This show never ceases to amaze me.

"I genuinely can't believe what a sensational performance that was from Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell. Absolutely outstanding."

Another penned: "Wow Chris McCausland. A very funny man and blind.

"What he has just done on Strictly is nothing short of amazing and well done Dianne.

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"Incredible truly. Go Chris."

While a third commented: "Absolutely blown away with Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell's routine tonight.

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"My favourite of the night. The best of #Strictly yet again."

Strictly Come Dancing airs on BBC One and iPlayer.

a man and a woman are dancing on a stage
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Audiences seemed to be wowed by Chris and Dianne's first live performanceCredit: PA
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