Michaela Strachan shares her journey from wildlife presenter to ice dancer, facing cancer and family support along the way
London: Michaela Strachan is trading her hiking boots for ice skates as she joins Dancing on Ice 2025. The show kicks off at 6.30pm on Sunday, January 12 on ITV1.
You might know Michaela from her wildlife shows like Springwatch and Autumnwatch. But before she hit the TV scene, she had quite a few different jobs, from musicals to being an Avon lady.
She even dabbled in music, releasing a couple of songs back in the day. But in 2014, her life took a turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram.
Michaela recalls the moment she got the news, saying it was overwhelming. She could barely process what the doctor was saying, just catching bits and pieces. “The tears started to roll as my doctor tried to tell me what would happen next,” she shared.
Even though the lump was small and caught early, doctors recommended a double mastectomy. They felt it was the safest route since the cancer risk was significant. Michaela understands it saved her life but still thinks it’s a harsh solution. “Surely there’s a better way of dealing with a tiny bit of cancer than chopping them off?” she wonders.
As she prepares for Dancing on Ice, Michaela has decided against wearing tight tops. She was previously married to filmmaker Duncan Chard, but they divorced in 2001. Now, she’s with her partner Nick Chevallier, and they have a son named Oliver.
They usually live in South Africa, but Michaela is in the UK for the show. Nick is staying back home for now, but she’s hopeful he might come over later, depending on how she does in the competition.
Her family is rallying around her, with her mum, brother, son, and stepdaughter all planning to come and support her. They even have a party planned back in South Africa to watch the show together.
