*Strictly Come Dancing* has seen a vast array of contestants over the years, with some rising to fame in their own right,
while others quickly fade from the spotlight after their time on the show.
However, for many former contestants, the allure of fame proved fleeting,
and they chose to step away from the glitz and glamor of show business in favor of more peaceful, private lives.
Over the years, numerous stars from various fields have graced the *Strictly* dance floor,
ranging from politicians to Olympians and even some former *I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!* contestants.
Yet, despite their popularity on the show, many of these celebrities have decided to leave the public eye and pursue quieter, more private lives. This has sparked curiosity among fans who are now wondering where these forgotten stars have gone and what they are up to today.
Among the notable stars who participated in *Strictly* and have since faded from the limelight is former politician Ann Widdecombe. Widdecombe, known for her outspoken views and long tenure as a Conservative MP, was a surprise contender on the show in 2010. Her appearances on the dance floor were met with both amusement and admiration, as her dance skills were less polished than some of her competitors. Despite not winning, she captured the public’s heart with her charm and wit. However, after her stint on the show, Widdecombe retreated from the public eye and distanced herself from show business. Since leaving *Strictly*, she has focused on her personal life and continued to work as a public speaker and author. Widdecombe also occasionally appears in the media for interviews or to offer her opinion on political matters, but for the most part, she enjoys a more private existence.
Another example of a *Strictly* contestant who made the decision to step away from the limelight is former Olympian and gold medalist Louis Smith. The gymnast participated in *Strictly* in 2012 and went on to win the competition, earning widespread praise for his athleticism and charming persona. Louis Smith was a fan favorite, and many expected him to continue his career in the spotlight, capitalizing on his success from the show. However, after his victory, Smith shocked fans by choosing to leave the world of entertainment. Rather than continuing to appear on television or pursue other opportunities in showbiz, he has largely kept a low profile, focusing on his personal life and family. In recent years, he has focused on his passion for coaching gymnastics and has made occasional appearances at public events. Smith has also become more active on social media, sharing glimpses of his life with his followers, but he no longer pursues the public persona that many expected him to maintain.
One of the most unexpected stories is that of John Sergeant, the former political journalist who became one of the most beloved figures in *Strictly* history. Sergeant’s time on the show in 2008 was notable not only for his surprising popularity but also for his decision to leave the competition despite being one of the final contestants. His choice to step down sparked widespread attention, and fans were divided over whether it was the right decision. Following his time on the show, Sergeant became a bit of a media sensation, making appearances on talk shows and enjoying his newfound fame. However, he soon decided to step back from the spotlight and largely retreated from public life. These days, Sergeant has kept a relatively low profile, occasionally appearing in the media to offer his opinion on political matters, but he no longer seeks the fame he once had. His life after *Strictly* has been centered more around personal pursuits, and he enjoys a quieter existence, away from the hustle and bustle of showbiz.
Then there is the case of Olympian and former *I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!* contestant, Colin Jackson. A highly respected figure in the world of athletics, Colin Jackson became a household name after his impressive career as a hurdler, and his appearance on *Strictly* in 2010 further solidified his place in the public eye. Jackson quickly became a favorite, thanks to his natural rhythm and charisma, but he did not win the competition. After *Strictly*, Jackson largely withdrew from the limelight, choosing to focus on his career in sports commentary and coaching, where he continues to thrive. He has also enjoyed a successful career as a motivational speaker and occasionally appears on television, though he remains largely absent from the showbiz world.
And who could forget about *I’m A Celebrity* star and *Strictly* contestant, The Vamps’ James McVey? He took part in *Strictly* in 2018 and impressed both the judges and fans with his performances. His time on the show helped elevate his public profile, but since then, McVey has opted for a much more private lifestyle. After his appearance on the show, he chose to step away from the entertainment industry to focus on his personal and family life. McVey has since shifted his attention to his music career, while still keeping a low profile in terms of public appearances.
There are many other *Strictly* alumni who have followed a similar path, retreating from the public eye after their time on the show. While some, like McVey and Jackson, still engage in their professions or charity work, others have chosen to pursue quieter lives away from the cameras. For these stars, the spotlight was fleeting, and the pressures of fame were less appealing than the stability and peace that a private life offers.
In conclusion, many former *Strictly* contestants have moved on from their time in the public eye to embrace more tranquil and fulfilling lifestyles. Whether it’s due to a desire for privacy or the pursuit of personal passions, these stars have stepped away from the hustle of show business and focused on the next chapters of their lives. While fans still remember their time on *Strictly*, these celebrities have made it clear that they are content with a quieter existence, away from the constant attention that comes with fame. The world of *Strictly* will continue to produce new stars, but for these forgotten contestants, the showbiz spotlight is a thing of the past.
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