Louie Spence started suffering from crippling anxiety following the death of his mother in 2012.

Louie Spence

Louie Spence

The professional dancer has opened up about his struggles since his mother Pat passed away, admitting that his usual anxiety became much, much worse after her death.

He shared: "I've suffered physical anxiety all of my life - panic attacks and palpitations. I've turned down loads of work because of it over the years.

"I remember having panic attacks on live TV when I was on 'Dancing on Ice'. They'd come to me for comment and I'd be thinking. 'I'm going to pass out.'"

Louie admitted he made a conscious decision to withdraw from the limelight because he could no longer see the value in what he was doing with his life.

He told the Daily Star on Sunday newspaper: "I was so consumed with grief. I lost the person I was - it just went. I was heartbroken and in a very weird, strange place."

Meanwhile, Louie revealed recently that he wants to judge 'Strictly Come Dancing' - but doubts whether he'll be given the chance.

The TV star enjoyed his stint on the 'Dancing on Ice' panel in 2012 and is keen to land a similar role on the BBC show.

However, he doesn't think Len Goodman, Darcey Bussell, Bruno Tonioli or Craig Revel Horwood will be leaving the programme anytime soon.

He said: "I think I'm a good judge when it comes to dance as I've spent my whole life doing it.

"[Would I do 'Strictly'?] Of course! But their panel is very established. I can't see them going anywhere as it works so well."