Richie Anderson wanted to be paired with a male pro on this year's Strictly Come Dancing to celebrate both his 10th anniversary with partner and the 50th Pride.
The radio DJ, 34, will compete for the Glitterball as part of a same-sex couple and explained that BBC bosses had given him the option to either dance with a woman or a man.
Richie, who has been in a relationship with Dean Eagles for 10 years, told the Mirror ahead of the show's launch that he had discussed his options with a partner.
"They actually gave me the option," he said. "They rang me up and they said, 'We want you to be on Strictly this year' - I ran off screaming and they were like, 'Can you come back to the phone?' They went, 'We're booking you for you, so it's up to you whether you want to dance with a female partner or a male partner.'
"I spoke to my partner Dean and this year is our 10 year anniversary and we have to - for our 10 year anniversary - it's the 50th anniversary of Pride this year as well - we have to dance with a man.
"So we spoke about it and I can't imagine me lifting a female pro up but... I just can't wait to be out there and I'm proud to be dancing with one of the male pros and I hope they feel the same way!"
His appearance on the show was first announced in August and said at the time: "This is a dream come true! I cannot wait to get in those sparkles and sequins and shimmy across the most famous dance floor in the world! Strictly is the ultimate feel-good show, as soon as I hear that iconic theme tune it’s just pure escapism.
"I’m going to have to cancel my legendary Strictly launch night kitchen party that I throw every year, I’m sure my friends and family will understand. It’s also a massive honour to be part of an all-male dance partnership, it’s so important we have that inclusion on such a huge show.”
*Strictly returns Friday September 23 on BBC One
