Will Best, the host known for Big Brother, advanced to the next round of the current Strictly Come Dancing competition just days after becoming a father. Best and his fiancée, stylist Tobi Rose, welcomed their son Sonny on October 11, shortly after his week three performance on the show. Despite the challenges of new parenthood and limited sleep, Best delivered an energetic jive to “Crocodile Rock,” adopting an Elton John-inspired look for Icons Week alongside professional dance partner Dianne Buswell.

The pair earned a score of 31 out of 40, placing them third on the leaderboard. Best credited his newfound “dad era” with inspiring him and joked that having a baby was his motivation to stay in shape, calling children the "ultimate accessory." Throughout rehearsals, Best admitted to frequently thinking about the show’s judges, particularly Craig Revel Horwood, whom he described as an "acid-tongued" figure whose approval he strives to gain.

Buswell, herself a mother returning from maternity leave following the birth of her son Bowden in March with YouTuber Joe Sugg, expressed how parenthood has impacted both her life and dancing. She noted that having a child brought a new perspective, reducing worries over minor setbacks and adding a deeper sense of purpose. She emphasized that while competition remains important, the wellbeing of one’s child ultimately takes precedence, providing emotional balance even when performances do not go as planned.

Best also reflected on support from fellow television personalities, highlighting Big Brother co-host AJ Odudu, who missed the Strictly final in 2021 due to an ankle injury but has remained a steadfast supporter. He recalled Odudu’s encouragement during his initial live show, underscoring the camaraderie among colleagues who have experienced the rigors of the competition.

Among the audience during Saturday’s show were celebrities Danny Dyer and Ray Winstone, who attended to support their daughters Dani and Jaime, respectively. Best previously gained attention for winning Celebrity Mastermind with Danny Dyer as his specialist subject, underscoring his varied interests beyond dancing.

As the competition progresses, Best aims to maintain his momentum on the dance floor while balancing the demands and joys of fatherhood.