Ed Balls, former British politician and television presenter, recently disclosed how his wife, Yvette Cooper, intervened to prevent a potentially controversial dance routine on the popular show Strictly Come Dancing. The incident, which occurred during Balls' participation in the program's fourteenth series in 2016, highlights the delicate balance between entertainment and sensitivity in public performances.
Balls had initially been slated to perform a dance inspired by Jerry Lee Lewis's "Great Balls of Fire" for the show's movie week. Lewis, an American singer and pianist known for his energetic performances and pioneering role in rock and roll music, had a career spanning over six decades. However, his reputation was marred by a scandal in 1957 when he married his 13-year-old first cousin once removed, Myra Gale Brown, at the age of 22.
Cooper, who serves as the current Shadow Home Secretary, raised concerns about the appropriateness of the routine. She pointed out that the biopic on which the dance was based depicted Lewis's controversial relationship, potentially casting Balls' dance partner, Katya Jones, in the role of the young cousin and Balls himself as an inappropriate figure.
Upon realizing the implications, Balls promptly contacted the show's producers to request a change. The production team swiftly adapted, proposing an alternative routine inspired by Jim Carrey's character in "The Mask." This new performance allowed Balls to fully embrace the theatrical aspect of the show, complete with green face makeup that took a team of three people 50 minutes to apply.
The incident sheds light on the challenges faced by public figures transitioning from politics to entertainment. Balls reflected on the differences between political and entertainment performances, noting that in politics, one always presents oneself, while entertainment allows for assuming different characters.
Balls' participation in Strictly Come Dancing marked a significant shift in his public persona. After losing his parliamentary seat in the 2015 general election, he found new fame on the dance floor. His performance of "Gangnam Style" during the competition became a viral sensation, showcasing his willingness to step out of his comfort zone.
The show, which has been running since 2004, pairs celebrities with professional dancers in a competitive format. It has become a cultural phenomenon in the UK and has spawned numerous international versions, demonstrating the enduring appeal of dance competitions in popular culture.
Balls' experience on Strictly Come Dancing, including this behind-the-scenes anecdote, illustrates the unexpected challenges and opportunities that can arise when public figures venture into new territories. It also highlights the importance of considering the broader implications of entertainment choices, especially when they intersect with sensitive historical or cultural issues.
"I learnt to put myself aside, my inhibitions aside, assume the character and just go. In politics, you are always yourself in performance, whereas what you're actually allowed to do in entertainment is put yourself slightly to the side and then go to the character."
This incident serves as a reminder of the power of entertainment to shape public perception and the responsibility that comes with it. It also demonstrates the value of having trusted advisors who can provide perspective on potentially sensitive issues, even in the world of light entertainment.