The 57-year-old decided to join the program following the passing of her late husband, Mel Coleman, who gave in to cancer at the age of 60 in May.
Mel had endured two months of stomach pains before receiving a stage three cancer diagnosis, ultimately losing his battle with the disease within eight weeks.
Annabel shared the heartbreaking news on social media, stating, “My beloved Mel passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning after a short battle with cancer. My family and I are completely heartbroken and ask for privacy at this very sad time.“
Now, Annabel has openly expressed how her participation in Strictly Come Dancing has served as a welcomed respite from her “dark thoughts.“
During her appearance on Lorraine alongside her dance partner Johannes Radebe, she remarked, “It’s [Strictly] been a nice distraction from grief. It’s been nice to do something joyful and use my body, and try to rest my brain from thinking too many dark thoughts.“
Reflecting on her late husband Mel’s fondness for the hit show, Annabel shared, “He was a huge fan.“
She also divulged that she and Johannes share a weekly ritual involving their shared love for sweets, saying,
We’ve both got a sweet tooth. We both like cake in the afternoon!
Regarding her dance partner Johannes, Annabel expressed her gratitude, stating,
I have struck gold. Johannes is just the most amazing human being.
She continued, “It’s been an amazing experience already. I’ve loved both of the dances we’ve done. They’ve been quite frantic, and we’ve sort of galloped our way across the stage, but this week is a Waltz.“
Annabel further revealed that this week’s performance will feature the song “Moon River,” describing it as a beautiful dance choreographed by Johannes.
She praised the intricate detail and effort that goes into each dance and step, admiring how they make it look effortless.
Addressing Johannes, she emotionally conveyed, “I can’t tell you what this means, to be dancing with you.I just wish you had met my husband because I have these flashbacks to our house and him watching you with tears running down his face. Honestly, it’s so special, it’s beyond anything I could put into words.”
