“The Journey of Grief: Annabel Croft Reflects on Her Late Loved One’s Impact through Strictly Come Dancing”

Annabel Croft Opens Up about Late Husband’s Thoughts on Strictly Come Dancing Partner

The Tragic Loss

Annabel Croft, the former tennis player, has been participating in the latest series of the popular BBC ballroom dance contest, Strictly Come Dancing, following the loss of her beloved husband, Mel Coleman. Annabel’s late husband, who was the father of their three children, passed away at the age of 60 a few weeks after being diagnosed with stage three cancer. This tragedy has inspired Annabel to take part in the competition and, according to her, it has helped her find some solace during these difficult times.

Mel’s Views on Annabel’s Partner

Annabel recently revealed what her late husband truly thought about her dance partner on Strictly, Johannes Radebe. In an interview with Metro, she mentioned that Mel enjoyed watching the show and especially liked watching Johannes dance. He would get emotional watching him, and Annabel fondly remembers him calling the family to the screen to watch Johannes perform. She expressed her sadness that her husband is not here to witness her journey on the show, as it would have been a significant and memorable experience for their family.

Annabel’s Dancing Journey

Annabel is currently preparing to perform the Jive to the song “Still Feel It” by Portugal The Man with Johannes on Saturday evening. She is joined on the show by a roster of notable personalities including Adam Thomas, Angela Rippon, and Zara McDermott. Prior to her participation in Strictly Come Dancing, Annabel mentioned in an interview with Mirror that she finds joy in the show’s ability to transport her to a different place and allow her to try something completely different. The experience also helps her let go and be in the moment, invoking memories of her childhood. She attributes dancing to be a joyful and expressive outlet for her.

Dancing as a Distraction from Grief

During an appearance on Lorraine Kelly’s ITV1 show, Annabel acknowledged how dancing has helped her ease her mind from the weight of grief. She described it as a nice distraction and a way to find joy amidst the darkness. After Mel’s passing, Annabel found herself in a dark place, crying every day in the weeks following the loss. She hoped that the demanding training schedule of Strictly Come Dancing would provide a much-needed respite and bring some joyfulness back into her life. Since being on the show, she has noticed a lift in her spirits, and the competition has allowed her to immerse herself in a new challenge.

A Tribute to Johannes

Annabel spoke highly of her dance partner, Johannes Radebe, applauding his kindness, patience, and incredible energy. She described him as an amazing human being and praised his skills as both a dancer and a teacher. However, despite their strong partnership and her growing appreciation for the show, Annabel couldn’t help but feel a sense of heartbreak that her late husband is not there to watch her perform. Mel had always loved watching Strictly Come Dancing and would often become emotional while watching the show, making it a shared experience for the family.

A Life Cut Short

Mel Coleman’s sudden passing only two months after he started experiencing stomach pain came as a shock to Annabel and their family. Mel, who was a successful investment banker and former America’s Cup yachtsman, was known for his seemingly perfect health and active lifestyle. Prior to his death, Annabel and Mel embarked on walking holidays across Europe, converting an old delivery van into a mobile home. His passing has left Annabel heartbroken, and his absence during her Strictly journey serves as a constant reminder of the loss.

A Chance Meeting that Changed Everything

Annabel reflects on how her path crossed with Mel’s quite by chance during a pivotal moment in her life. While at the US Open, she received a text from her mother about the opportunity to film a program about yacht racing in Belfast. Mel, a yachtsman fresh from the America’s Cup, was one of the participants, and their meeting during the filming eventually led to a deep connection. They got married six years later.

Conclusion

Annabel Croft’s courageous decision to participate in Strictly Come Dancing amidst the grief of losing her husband speaks to the transformative power of art and movement. Dancing has provided her with a much-needed distraction, a source of joy, and a way to process her emotions. Through her heartfelt revelations about Mel’s thoughts on her dance partner and the impact of the show on her family, Annabel demonstrates the enduring influence of loved ones even in their absence. While her journey on Strictly will always be bittersweet without Mel by her side, Annabel’s resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to others facing their own hardships.