‘Imagine it’s okay to be proud of where you were born’: Bros star Matt Goss hits out at ‘Wake Britain’ as he returns from his life in the US to take part in Strictly Come Dancing to participate
Bros star Matt Goss has slammed Britain’s “lack of pride” in his country as he returns to the UK to take part in Strictly Come Dancing.
The 53-year-old singer, who has lived in the US for decades, says he also believes people fear being shouted down for trying to speak their minds.
Speaking to The Sun, he said: “I think it’s okay if you were born here to say ‘please respect our country’.
‘Imagine it’s okay to be proud of where you were born’: Bros star Matt Goss gushes on ‘Wake Britain’ as he returns from the US
“I am a civilized gentleman and will always treat people kindly. But I also think that we… need to be less afraid of ourselves and tell it like it is.
“Imagine – it’s okay to be proud of where you were born. It doesn’t have racist connotations, it’s proud of where you were born.
He went on to say that despite his nationality, he is still proud of his country.
Back home: The star is returning to the UK to take part in Strictly Come Dancing 2022
It comes after Matt revealed he’s already been forced to make a heartbreaking sacrifice to appear on the BBC dance show, splitting up from his beloved dog Reggie and leaving him behind in the US.
He revealed he hopes to fly his French bulldog to the UK but is concerned about how he will cope with the long flight due to his breathing difficulties.
Matt added that he’s been spending lockdown with his dog, who is named after ’60s gangster Reggie Kray, and always dreamed of having him in the UK so they could go for walks in London’s parks together.
Tough: It comes after Matt revealed he’s already been forced to make a heartbreaking sacrifice to appear on the BBC dance show, separating from his beloved dog Reggie and leaving him behind in the US
The music legend is among 15 stars appearing in Strictly’s 20th series, including presenter Helen Skelton, footballer Tony Adams, actress Kym Marsh and EastEnders star James Bye.
After being unveiled as a contestant last week, Matt admitted the prospect of appearing on Strictly gave him “butterflies for the first time in three decades.”
He said that morning: “I’m excited, I’m nervous. You lead the conversation and then think: “I have to dance!”.
Matt, who has lived in Las Vegas, America for 25 years as a headliner, said he’s looking forward to spending more time at home again.
He said: “I was almost retired, I come and work and then go back to America. I thought it was time for me to come home and get out of my way somehow.
“Do something completely outside of my comfort zone. I’m pretty shy offstage so I have to face all those demons and learn.’
Blast from the past: Matt is best known for being a member of the ’80s pop group Bros with his twin brother Luke (pictured in 1988)
Matt is best known for being a member of the 80’s pop group Bros with his twin brother Luke.
Matt was the lead singer of the group whose debut album Push went four times platinum and stayed in the UK Singles Chart for 54 weeks.
He began a solo singing career in 1996 and has released 23 solo singles to date, four of which have reached the UK Top 40.
STRICTLY COM DANCING 2022: WHO ARE THE PARTICIPANTS?
KYM SWAMP
Age: 46
Occupation: Coronation Street star and presenter
Kym says, “I’m so happy they made it this year! I’m a huge fan of the show and can’t believe I’ll be watching from home in my pajamas and actually dancing in front of the judges in a glitter dress.
RICHIE ANDERSON
Age: 34
Profession: radio presenter
Richie says: “This is a dream come true! I can’t wait to slip on these glitters and sequins and dance the world’s most famous dance floor!’
ELLIE SIMMONDS
Age: 27
Profession: Former athlete
Ellie says, “Being asked to join the Strictly family is just so exciting and I can’t wait, it’s going to be so much fun.”
TYLER WEST
Age: 26
Profession: Radio DJ
Tyler says, “It’s a show that means so much to me and my family, and I can’t wait to get some serious dancing on this shiny dance floor…with a side full of sequins.”
ELLIE TAYLOR
Age: 38
Occupation: comedian
Ellie says, “Well, cover me in fake tan and roll me in sequins! I’m absolutely thrilled to be a part of Strictly 2022!’
TONY ADAMS MBE
Profession: Retired footballer and manager
Tony says: “To say I’m excited is an understatement – the allure of the sequins and the reputation of salsa make me trade in my battered old football boots for a pair of Strictly Soft shoes.”
JAMES Bye
Age: 38
Occupation: EastEnders actor
James says, “I’m not known for my flapping or sparkling toes — in fact, my kids regularly laugh at my dad dancing, but it’s an honor to be asked and I’ll do my best.”
HELEN SKELTON
Age: 39
Profession: TV and radio station
Helen says: “I’m really looking forward to embarking on a fun adventure. My family and friends have always loved the show and can’t wait for me to get started.
WILL MELLOR
Age: 46
Profession: actor
Will says: “I know it’s going to be a big challenge, but that’s what life is about. It’s my mom’s favorite show too and she’s had a really tough few years so I’m doing it for her too. Bring it on!’
KAYE ADAMS
Age: 59
Profession: TV presenter
Kaye says: “I said I wanted to make the last year of my fifties unforgettable and I can’t think of a better way than to show the world my two left feet. Pray for me!’
JAYDE ADAMS
Age: 37
Occupation: comedian
Jayde says, “I’ve been a huge fan of the show for years. I feel like I’m watching myself in a dream and can’t believe I manifested this.
Matt GOSS
Age: 53
Profession: singer
Matt says: “I was retired, I come and work and then go back to America. I thought it was time for me to come home and get out of my way.
MOLLY RAINFOORD
Age: 21
Profession: singer
Molly says, “I already know it’s going to be an experience of a lifetime and I can’t wait to meet the rest of the Strictly family who I’ll be sharing it with.”
FLEUR EAST
Age: 34
Profession: singer
Fleur says, “I’m equally nervous and excited to be a part of this year’s Strictly line-up. I look forward to learning new skills and I want to soak up every moment of this magical experience.”
HAMZA YASSIN
Age: 35
Profession: wildlife cameraman and moderator
Hamza says, “I’m absolutely thrilled to be on Strictly 2022. Never in a million years would I have thought I’d be on such a cool show.”