Title: Challenges Faced by Strictly Pro Carlos Gu: Being Gay in China and Coming Out to His Mother - OK! Magazine

Carlos Gu might have been a fresh face in the Strictly Come Dancing line-up last year, but his ballroom credentials are far from novice level. The 31 year old pro, who strutted onto the scene after the departures of Oti Mabuse and Aljaz Skorjanec, is a powerhouse on the dance floor with titles like Chinese National Dance Champion and world semi-finalist to his name, reports OK!

Not to mention finishing third in the prestigious German Open Championship and bagging the title of UK's Amateur Latin Rising Star Runner Up back in 2017. Carlos, who globe-trots alongside his dance partner Susan Sun, was brimming with enthusiasm when he landed his spot on Strictly, declaring: 'It's a new chapter of my life and a new challenge as well. I'm absolutely ready to take on this journey and to shine.'

He's quickly become chums with fellow pros Nancy Xu, Dianne Buswell, Johannes Radebe, and Katya Jones. When Carlos took to Instagram to share his gratitude for the support he's received, Katya couldn't resist commenting: 'We love you Carlos! ! ! ! ! ! ! You are such a beautiful person and a phenomenal dancer! I can't wait for everyone to see it!'

He's previously graced the Strictly dance floor with EastEnders star Molly Rainford, finishing in second place, and TV and radio presenter Angela Scanlon, where they placed sixth. However, this year he's without a partner, sparking controversy. Earlier this week, he voiced his disappointment at being 'snubbed' by BBC bosses, stating: ''We had a great time, we had an amazing time. I'm so proud of both of them. So for the third year, I was expecting that again, [I was like] 'Okay, I'm ready, I'm ready to give more'. I'm still a part of the shows. I'm still doing the music act. I'm still doing some of the group numbers. If you are not in the competition, you have more free time, I think I'm just using my time wisely.'

Carlos has kept mum about his personal life, leaving it uncertain whether he is currently in a relationship. However, during an interview on daytime show Lorraine earlier this year, he opened up about his sexuality for the first time, discussing the challenges of being gay in his home country of China. 'Myself, I moved to this country. I had a different life. I am finding my true self in this country,' he shared. 'Being a gay in China, it's really hard to talk about it. You can't tell a word in telly, public, no word.'

Homosexuality was decriminalised in China in 1997 and was considered a mental disorder by the Chinese Society of Psychiatry until 2001. China does not recognise same-sex marriage or civil unions.

He also opened up about coming out to his mum, praising her incredible support: 'I think, because I came out to my mum. She's a single mum who raised me, it's hard for her. But I'm so lucky to have her, she's so open. The time when I told her I want to move to UK and I want to get this job on Strictly, she actually supported me 100% because she knew I would be happier there.'

Carlos is excited about the upcoming dance tour with his mate, Strictly star Amy Dowden. Their Reborn tour is set to hit stages across the UK from March 2025.