Remembering Robert Webb's incredible Flashdance routine before Strictly debut

5 August 2021, 17:57

Robert Webb is best known for his comedy turn in Peep Show, but he's also pretty darned great on the dancefloor.

The comedian and writer was the first celebrity to be named in this year's Strictly Come Dancing lineup, and we wouldn't be surprised if he followed fellow comic Bill Bailey's triumph in 2020.

That's because this isn't the first time he's impressed TV viewers with his dance moves.

The 48-year-old took part in the first series of Let's Dance for Comic Relief back in 2009, and deservedly won.

Robert performed an incredible routine to 'Flashdance... What a Feeling', and we hope we get to see something like this again!

He wore a curly wig, leg-warmers and a fancy leotard just like actress Jennifer Beals from the iconic 1983 film.

Robert Webb performs What a Feeling - Let's Dance for Comic Relief - BBC One

In the final of the series that year, he beat Paddy McGuinness and Keith Lemon, who performed '(I've Had) The Time of My Life' from Dirty Dancing.

Speaking about joining Strictly, he said: "I am ludicrously excited to be taking part in Strictly this year.

"It’s a big, generous, joyful show and I can't wait to get packed into a spandex onesie and fired from a glitter cannon directly at Claudia Winkleman. At least I think that's what happens.

"My goal is to try and survive from week to week without causing serious injury to myself or innocent bystanders. I know it’s going to be a challenge.

"To do well in this competition is a test of character, although mainly it's a test of dancing."

In April last year, Robert revealed that he had heart surgery in November 2019 to save his life. On the day of his operation, there was an issue with the intensive care unit and the hospital attempted to delay surgery.

However, the cardiologist told the surgeon: "You can't send him home for five days, he isn't going to last two days."

During surgery, he lost two-thirds of his blood cells. He said: "So it was all a bit touch and go."

Robert will be joined by the likes of McFly singer Tom Fletcher and former Bake Off winner John Whaite in the 2021 series.