Alexandra Burke reveals Johannes Radebe helped her with movie debut
Alexandra Burke has revealed how Strictly Come Dancing pro Johannes Radebe helped her prepare for her debut film role in Pretty Red Dress.
Speaking on The One Show ahead of the film's premiere Burke discussed preparing for her acting debut, revealing she had support from the Strictly dancer who worked as a movement director on the film.
"He basically helps everyone feel comfortable with what they're doing," Burke told hosts Alex Jones and Roman Kemp.
She continued: "Tina Turner is one of the inspirations for this film and for my character. He helped me embody Tina Turner when I had to sing her songs and pretend to be her.
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She went on to praise the dancer for his work on set, adding: ""Any movement you see is literally Johannes helping everyone feel comfortable and wonderful.
"He is great.... Such a lovely, lovely human being."
Premiering today (June 16) Pretty Red Dress is set in South London and is inspired by the music of Tina Turner. Burke plays Candice, an aspiring singer, while Natey Jones stars as her boyfriend Travis.
Struggling to adjust to life outside of prison, Travis supports his girlfriend by buying her a dress for her audition in a musical. However the events soon lead to secrets and desires coming to light, forcing Travis to re-examine who he is.
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The role has already earned Burke a nomination as 'Best Newcomer' at the National Film Awards. She also explained to the hosts why the the film's uplifting message holds a special place in her heart.
"I feel like it [the film] will uplift people and give them the strength to be themselves no matter what situation they're in, no matter where they're at in their life" she said.
"Whatever it is, be true to who you are. Because you only get one life and we need to live it to the fullest."
The One Show airs every weekday at 7pm on BBC One and streams on BBC iPlayer. Pretty Red Dress is in cinemas now.
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