I've mentioned this in other threads and found I'm not the only one, but keep meaning to start a thread about it - and catching up on ITTs has prompted me to finally do so.

I'm wondering how many others feel inordinately proud of "their" celeb, when they do well.

I remember being so very chuffed when Jill did well in series 2.

But... I just watched a clip of Darren's Quickstep, week 2 of the last series - the first dance where things clicked and he suddenly went "hey, this is fun!"

I remember watching Darren's first international circket match on the TV, so it was in a weird way like seeing a long term acquaintance gaining confidence on the dancefloor.

Watching his quickstep just now - well it brought a lump to my throat! As if he was a friend of mine or I'd contributed in some way.

So.. who else gets ridiculously proud of those they support or like or whose careers they have followed for a long time when they do well?

After first series i got a thing for dancers!! oops!

Mark & Karen are the first couple I've liked because of the celeb and not the pro!!!

Aww, nice thread Sarah! I was wondering if you were going to post it!

I have liked a lot of celebs through the past 3 series, mostly Darren and Colin from last year, and had similar feelings while watching them.

It's only been this year though, with Mark, who I first saw play for England in the early 90's - that I am so completely obsessive, addicted, and absorbed in what and how he does!

I always knew he was a fantastic cricketer, but never for a minute thought that he would light up my TV set on the dance floor each week! I couldn't be more proud if I tried!

I got very proud of Aled Jones. Everyone thought 'choir boy? no way will he be able to do this!' and he was brilliant. He's so funny too. Remember seeing him on Buzzcocks last xmas - he doesn't take himself too seriously and he's always up for a laugh. I had the good fortune to meet him at his xmas carol concert a few years ago and he was really sweet.

This year I'm really proud of Carol because of her attitude. I like her determination, the way she just gets on with things and her positive outlook.

Ooh, I lied. I loved Aled!!! Him and Lilia were adorable!

I'm always proud of how Karen gets the absolute best out of her partner and could watch her dance all day

I have the same feeling... I get a lump in my throat and sort of squeal... watched last year's Xmas Special earlier and went telling everyone Goughie and Lilia had won it again, 40 out of 40! I know what you mean Sarah!

Been meaning to, and after having to laugh at myself for getting rather a lump in my throat seeing dear ole goughie dance again, I had to post it!

I though Aled was great that year - I know it meant a lot to Julian in a way to get to the final but I was gutted Aled went out

I was dead proud of Mark tonight, picking himself up and delivering after that fiasco with the mic.

Liking Carol more and more - not yet at the "proud" stage but you never know.

Just been re-watching Jill's Jives (both now up on youtube - woo)

OK, I was a bit proud of her n'all!!

I got massively proud of Aled, still a bit bitter and twisted about him loosing a final place to Julian

I loved Zoe last year, but never got 'proud' of her, just wanted her to win, but didn't really mind out of the top three who did - I'm getting similar with Carol this year.

This year I am proud to bursting with Mark, can't believe the bloke I used to watch play cricket is this amazing dancer, he's handling it all so well and last night, wow, stepped right up and took control. Just so proud of him

I think after last night - us rabied Mark fans have stopped *thudding* for a while, and are now bursting with pride!!

I burst with pride for ALL of them, every week. I couldn't do what they do!

Fi: yes *grin*

fern: I think that's one of the joys of the show, you're just holding your breath going "Wow, how have they learned to do that??!"

My Mark moment (After the *thud*, obviously) was when he was singing along to the song as he danced...how cute was that? Also showed how comfortable and relaxed he was.

Yeah, they both looked (but esp Mark) like they were having an awesome time out there and really enjoying themselves.

Joy to watch