Strictly's Gary Rhodes
Friday, 29th August 2008
Gary Rhodes burst onto our TV screens 20 years ago with his unyielding energy, trendy spiky quiff and estuary voice that made the world of cookery seem very rock 'n' roll.
Unquestionably one of the most successful chefs in the country, Gary has won almost every culinary accolade going, has been awarded four Michelin stars and owns restaurants in London, Dublin and Grenada.
He has also authored 18 best-selling cookery books and is a major shareholder (with his idol Sir Alex Ferguson) in an online restaurant booking service.
Gary has cooked for royalty, prime ministers, presidents and all kinds of sporting personalities.
Gary says: "I'm very proud – and very scared! – to be taking part in Strictly this year and I hope this leads to a great social pastime for my wife and I to enjoy together."
Karen Hardy is Gary Rhodes' dance partner
Karen was the Strictly Come Dancing winner, dancing with Mark Ramprakash, in 2006.
Before her retirement from the competitive world of dance in March 1999, Karen's partnership with Bryan Watson saw them as undefeated United Kingdom, International, British National, World Masters, Open Italian, Yankie Classic, London Open and Osaka World Trophy Champions of Latin American dance.
Although Karen has now retired from competitive dance, she describes herself as "the most competitive person" – always wanting to be the best in whatever she does, whether it is dancing, teaching or DIY.
She describes winning the show with Mark Ramprakash as "the most wonderful experience ever" and describes him as "a true sportsman in every way".
Image Credit: BBC
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