We know Brendan Cole as the feisty, lippy and sometimes ill tempered professional dancer form Strictly Come Dancing but apparently behind closed doors the hunk is an altogether different kettle of fish.

The 36 year old star has been described as a ‘pussycat’ by Victoria Pendleton, his partner for the 2012 series of the BBC show and he certainly has been incredibly protective of the brunette beauty ever sicne she feel apart during the first live show a few weeks ago.

In a new interview with The People Brendan has confessed that the harsh exterior his portrays is often put on and is a front to prove to people that he is not a ‘nancy boy’ as he’s been branded so many times in the past.

The New Zealand born star revealed that he was bullied and picked on because of his dancing when he was young and has reacted against it ever since.

He said:

“People gave me stick for being a dancer – not the way forward in a rugby playing nation. But if they said, ‘You’re a big cissy Nancy boy’ I’d go to extremes to prove them wrong.”

Speaking about his childhood experiences and the treatment he received at school, when he first realised that he wanted to be a dancer, he confessed:

“It was a bloody awful time. I hated school but it made me strong.

“In my twenties there was a big question mark over who I was. I wondered, ‘Were those kids right?’ Even ten years ago I was sick if being that guy at the party feeling ­intimidated and shy. I felt I didn’t belong, a little tadpole in the world of dancing. Then I changed overnight. I thought, I don’t have to be shy, I’m very much part of this world.”

Brendan shone again last night on Strictly, when he and Victoria performed a routine with an ‘Officer And A Gentleman’ theme for Hollywood night.

He looked every part the dapper officer, though she was certainly less confident than some of her fellow contestants. Craig felt that Victoria was improving at the acting, Darcey appreciated the “sensual moves”, but gave some tips on improving her lines and Len Goodman called the routine “a bit wobbly”.

The pair are fourth from the bottom of the leaderboard which could leave them in a bit of trouble on tonight’s results show.

Cole says it has been tough for Victoria to live up to everyone’s expectations and explained:

“Victoria is right – I am a ­pussycat. It is hard for her, though.

“As an athlete she is not used to being on the stage performing so openly but she will get much better.”

We just hope she gets the time to do it!

Do you like Brendan and Victoria as a couple? Do you think they’re safe this evening? Leave your comments below….