Ali Bastian Exclusive Interview

Interview with Former Strictly Come Dancing Contestant and Hollyoaks Star Ali Bastian 💃🎬

Speaking exclusively to OLBG.com, former Strictly Come Dancing contestant and Hollyoaks star Ali Bastian has opened up about this year’s competition, including who she thinks has what it takes to lift the Glitterball Trophy, as George Clarke continues to lead the odds with betting sites offering odds on Strictly 2025. Ali also reflects on her own unforgettable Strictly journey, shares behind-the-scenes secrets, and looks back on her time in Hollyoaks and The Bill.

Q: George Clarke is currently favourite with the bookmakers to win Strictly. Who do you think will win the show and who do you think is a dark horse to watch as we enter week 5?

I didn’t know George Clarke was the favourite with the bookies, but I really get why. I feel like there’s something special about him. I was trying to put my finger on what it is. I didn’t know him before Strictly, but after watching him, he’s so engaging and there’s something about him that makes you want to know more. I actually looked him up to see what kind of content he produces and what he’s doing because he seems like such an interesting guy.

I think it’s his honesty in performance, that sensitivity and connection I was talking about before. He has a real presence that’s beautiful to watch. It’s not showmanship, it’s something raw and genuine. I’ll be really interested to see how that develops because he definitely has something about him.

At the same time, I can’t believe the standard of dancing we’re seeing already at week four. Anything feels possible. There’s usually a shock departure somewhere in the middle, and you never know who that might be. I just hope everyone manages to stay injury-free because they’ve already had quite a few this year. I hope they’re all taking care of themselves.

I think Lewis and Amber are incredible. The intention and intensity behind their performances are amazing, and what they’re achieving at this point in the competition is incredible. It’ll be interesting to see how things unfold. I saw that they’ve dropped a bit in the bookies’ odds, which is interesting, because people love to see a journey — to watch someone grow and evolve on the show. Still, a final with those two would be amazing television.

I also really like Alex Kingston. When I watched her Rumba, I thought she was extraordinary. I’ve always loved her as an actor, ever since ER, and I was so curious to see her on the show. She’s an amazing actress with an incredible career. Like Arlene said at the weekend, she has such honesty in her performance and vulnerability for someone so strong. She really drew you in emotionally. Technically, she’s solid too, so I think she could be one to watch. I’d love to see her in the final.

And Ellie Goldstein is magic to watch. She’s getting stronger and stronger every week, and her partnership is lovely. So yes, I’ve basically named everyone, but those are my top picks — the ones really grabbing my attention.

 Balvinder Sopal

Q: Balvinder Sopal has now appeared in the dance-off twice this season. Why do you think she is finding it hard to appeal to viewers?

I feel for her because that’s so stressful. She could really do with a nice solid week without that happening. I think she’s a strong performer, really likable, and fun to watch. I suspect she’s just in that danger zone in the middle of the leaderboard, where people assume you’re safe.

She probably needs to pull something big out of the bag next week to make an impact. I think she might be in that tricky position where viewers think she’s fine and don’t vote as much. But if people want to see more from her, they really do need to get behind her instead of assuming she’ll just sail through each week.

Q: Let’s go back to series 7 - what made you say “yes” to Strictly Come Dancing in the first place? Was it about the dancing, the challenge, or just the chance to do something totally out of your comfort zone?

I think there’s such a magic about that show. I’d absolutely loved watching it, and honestly, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d get that phone call. It completely took me by surprise — I didn’t even know I was in the running! I was actually away camping in the middle of the New Forest, wearing my wellies, when my agent called and said, “Would you like to be on this season of Strictly Come Dancing?”

I just remember hearing the words come out of my mouth — “Absolutely, yes! I’d love that.” We started rehearsals not long after that phone call, maybe just a few weeks later, and then we got cracking. It was a real pinch-me moment — a dream come true.

Q: What are your favourite memories of your time on Strictly?

I’m sure a lot of Strictly alumni would say the same thing, but for me, it has to be Blackpool week. I did the Viennese Waltz, and we got 40! I think at the time we’d broken a Strictly record for it — I can’t even remember exactly what record it was, but I remember there was one! I think it was around week seven, and it was just incredible.

The ballroom is so beautiful, the ceiling is magnificent, and stepping out on that floor felt magical. I remember being in hold during the Viennese Waltz, leaning my head back, looking up at the ceiling, and it just took my breath away. Then we started spinning and spinning. It really was a magical, really special show.

Q: Can you name one secret about Strictly that no one watching at home would ever know? Any behind-the-scenes action? Something the cameras never caught?

I was trying to think of something, but people probably know quite a lot now thanks to social media! I love that they use the mic feeds now so you can hear the dancers talk — they didn’t do that when I was on it, which would’ve been hilarious because there’s so much chatting going on.

My dance partner Brian used to make little noises or sounds with his breath to guide me. Like during a waltz, he’d go “shhh,” and I’d know exactly what he meant. It becomes this secret language between you. Now, people can actually hear that, which is funny.

But one thing that really stands out is the Saturday night after-show parties — they were bananas! Everyone would head to the BBC bar after the show to let off steam, with friends and family joining in. Then we’d often head out into London for a big night out. I don’t know if that still happens, but it was such a fun tradition. It was also the only real time we got to hang out with the other contestants — during the week, you’re all locked away in your own rehearsal studios.

Q: Were the celebs genuinely rooting for each other, or was there a bit of side-eye and rivalry in rehearsals?

I think as the competition went on, things did get a bit more competitive, but in general, everyone bonded because it was such an intense experience. We were all flying by the seat of our pants!

Honestly, I think the real competitive energy came more from the professional dancers — they come from a dance sport background, which is very competitive. They’re athletes, truly. Back then, they were really in it to win it. Some of the guys, especially, were very driven, though the girls were incredibly strong too, but perhaps a bit more compassionate toward what we were all going through.

After Strictly, I joined Burn the Floor in the West End, which had loads of the dancers who later joined Strictly — people like Aljaž and Janette. That show really focused on making them not just great dancers but great performers. It’s why so many of them have stood the test of time — they’re phenomenal entertainers.

Alesha // PA Images

Q: The judges back in your season (Len, Bruno, Craig, Alesha), what were they really like off-camera?

We didn’t really see them much during the show. They’d arrive, go to their dressing rooms, and there was a real professionalism and distance about it.

I remember Alesha was on the panel that year — she was so lovely. I was really glad she was part of it, even though I don’t think she had the easiest time, coming in after Arlene. But her career absolutely took off afterwards, which was great to see.

When we went on tour, we all spent more time together. They were still total professionals, but I got to know them a bit better then, and it was really fun. We had a great time.

Q: Strictly is famous for its “curse” — people falling for their dance partners. Is it real or just media hype?

I don’t really think of it as a “curse.” I think it’s just something that happens. The environment is so intense — it’s emotional, physical, high-energy — so it’s not surprising that sometimes the lines blur. Especially when people are young, single, and spending that much time together. It’s just human nature.

Q: If Strictly called tomorrow and asked you back for an All-Star season, would you say yes?

100% yes. Even through my treatment over the last year, I’ve had this little fantasy about going back. I live in Ireland now, but it’s only a short hop to London, and I’d totally do it. It’s also on in Ireland, so maybe they’d have me on there!

I feel like after everything I’ve been through physically, it would be an incredible challenge, but also such a powerful experience. It would be amazing to give other women going through breast cancer hope, to show that you can get back on your feet again. That would be really special.

Q: The show’s launch episode this series had 5.6 million viewers. How do you feel it continues to be one of the most-watched shows to this day?

I think it’s because they adapt so well. The formula works and it’s always worked. They keep enough of what makes it special while still moving it forward. The show keeps getting more spectacular, and they’re smart about the casting — they always find a good mix of personalities that appeal to different audiences.

I actually think this year’s casting might be one of the best. There’s someone for everyone to connect with, which makes it exciting to watch.

Hollyoaks 🎬

Q: You joined Hollyoaks at such an iconic time. What was the atmosphere like on set back then?

It was really exciting and fun. Looking back, it was such a poignant time in my life. I was only 19. I had my final audition on a Thursday, got the job, and started on Monday. I remember coming home and saying to my mum, “I’m leaving home and moving to Liverpool,” and off I went.

It was such a fun and special time to be part of the show and a really big moment in my life.

Q: Every soap has its own little on-set rituals and gossip. What’s one thing fans would never guess about filming Hollyoaks?

It’s hard to think of something people wouldn’t already know, but I’d say maybe they don’t realise just how fast-paced it is. Soaps are filmed at an insane speed. Sometimes we’d only get the new scenes on the day, even moments before filming. Rewrites were constantly coming in. Every department was working flat-out all the time.

I remember one day everything went off schedule, someone had to go home sick, and suddenly the whole afternoon’s shoot was up in the air. They handed me a scene with David Brown, who played Adam — it was seven or eight pages long, just the two of us. We had about ten minutes to learn it. The director decided to film it almost in one continuous shot. Somehow, we did it. It was really raw and emotional, and honestly, it’s some of the work I’m proudest of.

Sometimes the chaos works in your favour — there’s a rawness that makes it feel very real.

Q: You played Becca Dean, one of the show’s most complex characters. What did you love most and least about her?

I think what I loved most was that she was such a well-rounded character for a soap. I got to explore so many sides of her — comedy, drama, and a lot of emotional storylines. I loved that it stretched me as an actor.

What I liked least was probably how much I had to cry. Once the writers realised I could cry on cue, they leaned into it. It could be exhausting. I’d spend whole days crying on set, then go home and have to remind myself, “This isn’t my life, it’s Becca’s.” I had to learn to leave that emotion at work.

Q: Was there ever a storyline that you didn’t agree with or weren’t a fan of?

It’s not that I wasn’t a fan of it — I actually think it was a brave storyline — but the Becca and Justin storyline was a difficult one. She was having an affair with a student.

It was challenging to play because morally, I knew she was doing the wrong thing. But as an actor, you have to find the truth in it, understand her reasons, and play it as honestly as possible. It was a real mental challenge.

Q: The Becca and Justin storyline was massive — one of the most talked-about in Hollyoaks history. How did you handle the public reaction to such a controversial plot?

People used to shout at me in the street — things like, “Leave him alone, he’s just a child!” That happened a few times. I had to remind myself that it meant people were engaged with the story and believed in it.

In a way, I’m glad social media wasn’t what it is now because that would’ve been hard. I’ve had a taste of that on other jobs, and it can be tough because you’re human at the end of the day. But back then, people’s reactions just showed that they were invested, which I took as a positive.

Social media now adds a whole new layer that actors have to learn how to navigate without letting it get to them.

Q: What was the hardest part about leaving Hollyoaks?

The people. Always the people. I was there for six years, and the crew felt like family. It was my everyday job for such a long time, and saying goodbye to that environment and those people was really emotional. I cried like a baby when I left.

Q: Given the show’s 30th anniversary, what do you think has allowed Hollyoaks to last and stay relevant all this time?

I think it’s because they’ve always managed to stay relevant. They ask difficult questions and often tackle storylines before other soaps do. They may not have always been the most high-profile, but they were brave and bold in their storytelling.

Hollyoaks has always been the voice of the younger generation. It’s important that they keep that focus — giving space to stories that matter to young people and continuing to push boundaries. That’s what’s kept it alive for 30 years.

The Bill cast member Ali Bastian and dog Harry on the show's set // PA Images/alamy

The Bill 🚓

Q: What are your standout memories from your time filming The Bill?

There were a lot of wild driving scenes. I learned quite a bit of stunt driving on that job. Every now and then, since finishing my treatment, I’ll be driving and think, “I wonder if I could still slide the car sideways across this car park.” Then I remind myself, no — it’s not a film set!

But I loved learning those skills. It was so much fun doing the stunts. And working with Micah Balfour, who played my partner, was just brilliant. He’s such a lovely guy, and we laughed every single day. There were so many antics on set, and he really made that job a joy for me.

Q: How did it feel joining such a long-running, iconic show? Was it intimidating or exciting? And how did the newer actors blend in with the established cast — was it welcoming or a bit daunting?

It was quite daunting, to be honest. I’d been at Hollyoaks for six years and felt completely at home there, so moving into a new environment with actors who’d been on The Bill for years was a bit intimidating.

It felt like joining a long-standing institution — a bit like being a rookie joining the police force. I had to earn my stripes. I think some people were curious about me at first because I’d come from Hollyoaks, which at the time was known for being quite a glamorous show, even though my character wasn’t one of the super glamorous ones.

When I arrived, I think people were wondering, “Who’s this, and what’s she about?” They needed to see that I’m a grafter — I turn up on time, I know my lines, and I work hard. The Bill was full of hardworking, jobbing actors, and once people realised I was the same, it became a really great experience. I ended up staying for three years, and I’m proud of that.

General 📺

Q: Across all the shows you’ve worked on, what’s one moment that really stands out to you?

The first thing that comes to mind is The Bill. I did a storyline where I had to rescue someone from the Thames near City Airport in London. Their car had gone into the water, and we had to dive in and pull her out. I was with an actor called Sam Callis, and we went into the water together to rescue her.

It was the biggest stunt I’d ever done, and I loved it. It was crazy, exhausting, and sometimes a bit scary. The car was launched off the riverbank into the water, then pulled down on a hydraulic rig with an actress still inside it. Sam and I had to get into the car underwater and pull her out. It was bonkers. We filmed in the water for three days by City Airport. It was demanding on every level — physically, emotionally — but it was such a fun and unforgettable experience.

Q: What actually goes on behind the scenes in TV that people would never expect or might find surprising?

I think people would be surprised by just how much teamwork goes into it. When a production works well, it’s because you’ve got a company of team players all pulling in the same direction.

On pretty much any set I’ve been on — everyone’s working hard, running lines every spare minute, trying to make everything as good as it can be. I’ve only had it once in all these years where another actor didn’t want to run lines with me. Usually, everyone’s in the corner rehearsing between takes, trying to build chemistry and get the scene right.

People used to say filming is slow and there’s a lot of sitting around. That might have been true once, but not anymore. Nobody sits around. Even on big-budget dramas or films, everything runs at a hundred miles an hour. So yeah, it’s always full-on and a bit strange when someone doesn’t want to rehearse, because those little off-set moments are what help build connection.

Q: I appreciate your children are a little young at the moment, but would you want your children to have a life in television? Is that something you’d encourage them to do in the future?

I feel like if it’s in them, I couldn’t stop them even if I wanted to. I could imagine either of them going that way — they’ve both got little extrovert streaks. We’ve exposed them to a lot already, taking them to the theatre and showing them creative things, and I hope that captures their imagination.

But honestly, I don’t mind what they do. I just want them to follow their instincts. If that’s acting, great — I’ll support it. If it’s something academic, amazing. If they want to travel or do something totally different, that’s fine too. The main thing is that they’re happy.

Q: What advice would you give to someone young who’s dreaming of a career in television in the UK?

It’s such an interesting time because you can really create your own work now. There are so many platforms and opportunities to be creative. It doesn’t feel like the closed shop it used to be — there are different ways in.

Look at someone like George Clarke, who came from YouTube and TikTok and captured the nation’s attention. Social media has levelled the playing field. Anyone can make something, put it out there, and see what happens. That’s a really positive thing.

I’d say don’t be afraid to make connections. Be curious, talk to people, and put yourself out there. I was in a café recently and overheard someone mention they taught film. I just walked over, introduced myself, and started chatting. It turned into a great new contact. So, spark conversations and create opportunities wherever you can.

Also, keep making stuff — write, film, record, whatever. Keep knocking on doors and don’t take no for an answer.

And one other thing I’ve learned over the years — when you’re starting out, it’s easy to get tunnel vision and think, “When I get that job, then I’ll be happy.” I used to feel that way. But as time goes on, you realise that happiness comes from all the other things in life too — your relationships, your home, the small moments. The richer your life outside of work, the better your work will be. The simple things really do make me happiest now — my kids, my family, where I live.

Q: Is there a show or role you once turned down that you now wish you’d said yes to?

I didn’t have much control over it, but when I was a kid, I was offered a part in Four Weddings and a Funeral. Nobody really understood what it was at the time — my agent and parents thought it was just a new sitcom. The line I would’ve had to say was quite rude, so my parents and agent both said no. They thought it wasn’t appropriate, so we passed on it. Of course, it went on to become a massive film. So yes, that’s definitely one that got away.

Q: If you could join the cast of any current TV show, what would it be and why?

I was thinking about this recently. I feel like there’s a bit of a gap for shows made by people in their 30s and 40s — for audiences who are that age, sitting at home after putting the kids to bed, wanting something smart and real to watch.

Back in the day, we had shows like Cold Feet, Teachers, Spooks — really solid TV for that age group. The one that comes to mind now is Bad Sisters. It’s so well written, so funny, and has such a strong female cast. I’d love to be part of a show like that.