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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Lauren Del Fabbro

Gavin & Stacey star says no money could make her do Strictly Come Dancing

Ruth Jones, the acclaimed star and co-creator of Gavin & Stacey, has firmly stated that no sum of money could entice her to participate in Strictly Come Dancing.

The Welsh actor, 59, known for her iconic role as Nessa Jenkins, expressed her unequivocal disinterest in the popular BBC dancing competition.

Speaking on The Jonathan Ross Show, Jones acknowledged the impressive feats of the show's contestants but maintained her stance. "I’ve been and watched Strictly and it is amazing what people do," she said. "But it is absolutely not for me. They would have to pay me an absolutely ridiculous amount of money – there isn’t a figure."

Jones also revealed she had been approached for Celebrity Traitors, another hit BBC reality game show.

Despite her fondness for the programme, she prefers to enjoy it from the comfort of her own home. "There was a big rumour about me doing it as well," she explained.

Ruth Jones is best known for co-creating and starring in award-winning sitcom Gavin And Stacey ((Ian West/PA))

"The thing is I had sort of been asked about doing it and I love the show and I think it’s amazing, but then I thought I’ll have to put on a wet suit and I’ll have to go in one of them lochs, I’ll get bitten by the midges. I’d rather sit in my pyjamas and watch everyone else."

The actress, who won a Bafta in 2025 for best female performance in a comedy for her role in Gavin & Stacey: The Finale, also shed light on a long-standing on-screen dynamic. In the Christmas special, her character Nessa was set to marry Smithy, played by James Corden, but the pair famously never shared a kiss.

Jones clarified the reason behind this creative decision: "James Corden and I couldn’t bear the thought of kissing each other, so that was kind of written into the script. We’re like brother and sister, so it would’ve been strange."

The Jonathan Ross Show airs on Saturday at 10pm on ITV1 and ITVX.

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