Strictly Star's Trauma: Witnessed Stabbing at 14

DJ and TV presenter Tyler West, known for his participation in Strictly Come Dancing, has shared a harrowing experience from his teenage years that has profoundly impacted his mental health. At the age of 14, West witnessed a man being fatally stabbed during an altercation outside his home. This deeply disturbing event caused him significant distress, leading him to isolate himself indoors for two years and contributing to ongoing issues with control.

This traumatic incident has resurfaced as West navigates the challenges of Celebrity Race Across The World. He expressed that the show pushes him outside his comfort zone, contrasting with his usual desire for control. He recounted the horrific moment, describing how the violence unfolded and the feeling of helplessness it induced, a feeling he is determined never to experience again.

The BBC One reality show features celebrities and their loved ones racing across Central America. During a recent episode, West discussed his past trauma with his fiancée, actress Molly Rainford, highlighting how the experience matured him quickly but was incredibly difficult to process. The show also noted a location change to Liberia in Costa Rica due to filming restrictions in Nicaragua.