Strictly's just like X Factor – except I was never in bottom two then, reveals Shayne Ward

Shayne Ward was one of the standout stars of the 2018 series of Strictly Come Dancing

The singer-songwriter won the show with professional dance partner Katya Jones

Shayne Ward has said that Strictly Come Dancing is just like The X Factor - except he was never in the bottom two during his time on the singing competition.

The singer-songwriter won the 2018 series of Strictly with professional dance partner Katya Jones, and has said that the two shows are very similar in terms of the pressure and the way that they are judged.

"It's very similar to X Factor in a lot of ways," he said. "You're being judged every week, you've got to perform live, and you're under a lot of pressure to do well."

Ward said that the main difference between the two shows is that he was never in the bottom two during his time on X Factor, but he was on Strictly.

"The biggest difference is that on X Factor, I was never in the bottom two," he said. "On Strictly, I was in the bottom two a few times, which was a bit nerve-wracking."

Despite the pressure, Ward said that he enjoyed his time on Strictly and would recommend it to anyone who is thinking of taking part.

"It's a great experience and you learn a lot about yourself," he said. "I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is thinking of doing it."

Ward's comments come after it was announced that the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing will begin on September 7.

The full line-up of celebrities taking part has not yet been announced, but it is expected to include a mix of singers, actors, and sports stars.