Casualty actor Nigel Harman will appear on Strictly Come Dancing’s 2023 launch show this weekend, but this isn’t the first time he’s taken to the floor.
Nigel in Downton Abbey (Image: ITV)
There are only a few days left before Strictly Come Dancing 2023 officially kicks off, and Nigel Harman has candidly addressed his diploma in musical theatre, which could benefit him in the competition.
Through the diploma, the Casualty actor gained dance experience before he started his on-screen acting career.
Speaking to OK! Magazine, he said: “I did a diploma in musical theatre when I was 16, so I’m used to dancing.
“I wasn’t in A, the top stream. I was in C and ended up in B. When I left college, I was on a cruise ship for six months – as a dancer, I hasten to add. Not just doing the bingo.”
The 50-year old is best known for his role as Dr Max Christie in the BBC drama and as Dennis Rickman on the soap EastEnders.
Nigel Harman performing in the I Can’t Sing musical (Image: Getty)
Harman also revealed that he has a useful trick to overcome his nerves as he’s a certified meditation coach.
He added: “I did a little bit of meditation today because I could feel my heart going fast. When the Saturday shows come and you’re in the stream of this brilliant show, finding the time to take for yourself – a little breath here and there – can do wonders.”
Speaking about the upcoming show, he shared his excitement over being involved, but confessed that is has been much harder than he first thought.
“It’s a little bit overwhelming. Like being fired out of a cannon and you’re not sure where you’re going to land and hoping it’ll be safely and sometime soon.”
Nigel as Dennis Rickman in EastEnders (Image: BBC)
Nigel first appeared on our television screens in 2003 as heartthrob Dennis Rickman in EastEnders.
He was later killed off in 2006 when he was tragically stabbed to death on New Year’s Day.
He then joined Downton Abbey as Dr Green, the evil valet who was known for being at the centre of a rape storyline with maid Anna, portrayed by Joanne Froggart.
This year, he burst onto the Casualty scene as Dr Max Christie and was later confirmed to be in the 2023 Strictly line-up.
