Strictly Come Dancing's Melanie Walters backed by Gavin and Stacey co-stars

Actor Melanie Walters has said her Gavin and Stacey co-stars have been "hugely supportive" of her Strictly Come Dancing debut, with Joanna Page "very excited" for her to take to the ballroom floor.

The screen and stage star, 64, best known for playing Gwen West in the BBC comedy, is partnered with professional Aljaz Skorjanec, 36, in the new series of the dance programme .

Walters said being paired with Skorjanec was a "dream come true" after the pair performed together for the first time at Saturday's launch show.

She said her Gavin and Stacey co-stars had sent her "lovely messages, especially from Jo [Page], who's just very excited".

When asked if she would be bringing any of her character from the comedy onto the ballroom floor, she added: "I've got no idea, this is Aljaz's department.

"I've got no idea what's going to happen on that ballroom."

Walters told the Press Association it was "mind-boggling" to be asked to join the series and that it was "a bit out of my comfort zone".

"I've not been one for doing panel shows or quiz shows or anything," she said.

"So, it's now me, Melanie Walters, which is not what I'm used to putting out there, because I'm quite a private person. I just thought, 'no, let's tick that box'.

"And basically, I really want to learn to dance properly. Always have.

"Getting weekly masterclasses. You couldn't ask for anything better."

Walters starred in Gavin and Stacey from its launch in 2007 and reprised her role for a 2024 Christmas special.

Her television work also includes roles in Coronation Street, Beyond Paradise, Being Human, Hollyoaks, Biff And Chip, and Doc Martin, while her film credits include Submarine, Resistance, High Tide and Save The Cinema.

On stage, she has appeared in productions such as The Importance Of Being Earnest, Blood Brothers, Twelfth Night, Educating Rita and What's New Pussycat?.

She also recently appeared in two series of the BBC's crime mystery series Death Valley.

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