Sam Thompson opens up on BFF Pete Wicks’ Strictly journey - ‘I had no idea he could move so well!’
They’ve got the most heartwarming ‘bromance’ on TV and now, Made In Chelsea star Sam Thompson and former TOWIE cast member Pete Wicks — who is currently wowing audiences with his dance routines (and outfits) on Strictly Come Dancing — are back as the red carpet live hosts at the Pride of Britain Awards.
The pals, who host the hit podcast Staying Relevant together, reveal it’s set to be another inspirational year. No doubt, tears will be shed as they meet some of the incredible winners, along with sharing a few jokes with the likes of Ant and Dec on the night. Here, the best friends share their thoughts on why the special event is such an honour to be a part of, and give an insight into Pete’s Strictly experience, including what Sam — whose girlfriend Zara McDermott competed last year — truly thinks about his mate’s moves...
Hello, you two! So, how does it feel to be back working with Pride of Britain?
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Sam: It’s an absolute honour. We were so thrilled to be asked to present last year, so to be asked again is amazing, and there’s no one I’d rather do it with than my best pal, Pete.
Pete: I hate to agree with Sam, but he’s right. It genuinely is such a special event, and it’s one that we’re both so thankful to be a part of.
Were there lots of tears last year? How do you plan to keep it together this year?
Sam: As everyone knows, I’m the emotional one out of the two of us, so it’ll be hard for me to hold it together, but hearing the inspirational stories are what makes it really worth it.
Pete: The thing is, this is where the nation’s real heroes are celebrated. They’re the best of all of us. Regular people and unsung heroes who have been extraordinary and brave. It is impossible not to be moved.
You two are quite the red carpet double act. What’s your secret to a successful red carpet event?
Pete: For me, it’s all about the preparation and making sure you’ve read up on all the winners before. It’s our job to bring out the best in people and ask the right questions at the right time. It also doesn’t hurt to be wearing a slick suit. Knowing Sam, he’ll probably show up and be emotional, wearing a pair of Crocs!
Sam: Ha ha, he’s right! But no, in all seriousness, I think it’s just about speaking to each of the winners and getting to know their story more.
Is there anyone who’d leave you starstruck if you saw them on the red carpet?
Sam: Ant and Dec, always! I can’t wait to see them again. We’re basically best friends at this point.
Pete: It’ll just be nice to see everyone — the nominees and award winners are who we’re all really there for, though.
Pete, how are you finding Strictly Come Dancing ? Are you still really enjoying it?
Pete : I really am loving it. Jowita [Przystał, his Strictly dance partner] has taught me so much in such a short space of time. From the producers to the runners, everyone is amazing, and it’s been great getting to learn a new skill week after week. I love dancing — and that’s something I never thought I’d say.
Is the experience matching up to your expectations?
Pete: It’s already gone above and beyond. It’s hard to explain unless you’re in it, but learning to dance is a really special process, and seeing what goes into the production and costumes behind the scenes is so impressive.
Describe your partnership with Jowita...
Pete: It’s been really great — she’s such a talented dancer and has been so patient with me throughout. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner. We also laugh a lot, which is always good!
Sam, what has it been like watching Pete perform on the Strictly dance floor?
Sam: It’s been so exciting! I had no idea he could move so well — those hips! There’s nothing I love more than embarrassing Pete, so getting to turn up in week one wearing a full Pete Wicks-themed outfit made it even more enjoyable. That’s me every Saturday night for the foreseeable, cheering my best mate on.
Has Zara given you any tips or extra help with your dance training, Pete?
Pete: Zara is a great friend and is always so supportive of my projects, which I’m really grateful for.
Sam, how is everything going with you and Zara?
Sam: Really well, thank you — I’m so proud of my goose! She’s absolutely smashing it and we love being cat mum and dad to Albus and Cedric.
Do you have any early Christmas present plans?
Sam: It’s a bit too early for Christmas gift plans, but I’d better start thinking about what to get her!
After winning I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! last year, are you excited about watching this year?
Sam: I’m beyond excited and will absolutely be watching throughout the series. I’m sure it will make me miss it, as it was one of the best experiences of my life, but I’m so grateful I was given the opportunity. In terms of tips for new camp mates, I’d say really try to stay positive and focus on the fact that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, even when you’re hungry and dirty. Rely on your fellow camp mates and speak to them if you’re struggling — you’ll genuinely form friends for life there.
Can anything top that winning moment for you?
Sam: It’s going to be hard, isn’t it? Pete and I have some huge things planned for Staying Relevant, though, which is really exciting.
Are you still in touch with Marvin Humes and Tony Bellew after leaving the jungle?
Sam: Yes, I absolutely am. We chat all the time, and you may have seen they both made special appearances at our Staying Relevant podcast tour in September. I’m sure I’ll be turning up uninvited to Tony’s house sometime soon, and I’m hoping for a JLS reunion so I can join Marvin and the boys on stage again.
So what’s next for Sam and Pete?
Pete: We’re always planning new things together and creating exciting content for our podcast. There’s lots to come — we plan on doing more live tours, interviewing some new guests, and I’m sure Sam will be continuing to annoy me until we’re old and grey.
Sam: We’re constantly dreaming big and are so thankful for all the support from everyone who listens to the podcast and follows our crazy social media ideas.
The Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards 2024 airs Thursday 24 October, from 8pm, on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player
