Strictly star George Clarke's agony over mum's deadly brain condition

Strictly Come Dancing contestant George Clarke has revealed the devastating moment he nearly lost his mum after she was struck down by a deadly brain condition. The 25-year-old YouTuber, who is among this year's new BBC Strictly stars, opened up about his family's ordeal in 2015, describing how his world was turned upside down when his mum was rushed into intensive care. George, who also goes by George Clarkey online, recalled how his mother had always been "kind and giving, making cards, cakes, and chocolate bars" for him and his sister.

But everything changed one day when she suddenly collapsed and was taken to hospital. "I saw her being wheeled out, and she didn't recognise me," he said. "That summer was filled with hospital visits as she relearned who we were. She even called me 'Fat Boy' for a while!" Doctors diagnosed his mum with encephalitis - a severe brain inflammation George had never heard of before.

He explained how she was given just a 20 per cent chance of survival. "She lost long-term memories, her sense of taste and smell, and her sense of direction," he continued. "Despite it all, she apologised to us for what she put us through! I'm incredibly lucky to still hear her laugh."

The reality star shared his story on World Encephalitis Day to raise awareness of the condition, stressing: "It's not a joke; it's about recognising the challenges and showing support. Thanks for listening, and I hope this sheds light on #encephalitisawareness."

Fans flooded his post with support, with one writing: "Proud of you, so hard to open up but it's so important."

Another added: "That sounds awful, she's such a fighter, thank you for raising awareness of this illness George."

A third told him: "It must have taken a lot to share this. Thank you."

Away from the personal heartbreak, George is gearing up for a glittering run on Strictly.

The YouTube star, who has more than 600,000 subscribers and 2.3 million TikTok followers thanks to his comedy skits, was welcomed into the ballroom during the pre-recorded launch on September 20.

During the first episode of the 23rd series, it was revealed that George would be dancing with Alexis Warr, a brand-new professional joining the UK show.

Alexis shot to fame in America after winning So You Think You Can Dance in 2022, where she became the first female Ballroom and Latin specialist to be crowned "America's Favourite Dancer".

She has since toured the US with Dancing With The Stars and appeared as part of the professional troupe before making the leap to Strictly.

George celebrated their pairing with a tongue-in-cheek post, joking: "What better way to reveal our secret than with a professional photo dressed as minions?"