Strictly Come Dancing: 20 Years

BBC talent show Strictly Come Dancing first started on 15th May 2004 in London, England. Although I actually watched the very first show all those years ago, I cannot recall what time it began and I've been unable to find that particular piece of information. However, I do know that it was broadcast at primetime on a Saturday evening, so that means it began sometime between 6pm and 9pm. This narrows down the potential rising sign to either Libra or Scorpio and pinpoints the Moon's position as 16° - 17° Aries. In the chart below, I've split the difference and gone for a 7:30pm starting time. (Your comments on this would be very much appreciated)

The Sun was in Taurus, the sign of music and talent, so perfect for a dance contest. However, Taurus is also the sign of bewitching earthy sensuality. The Strictly Sun is in a conjunction to the fixed star Capulus, a combination which brings endurance, determination, and an ability to focus energy. Definitely qualities that are required by the dancers! The Capulus influence also brings the ability to achieve a prominent position in any field of expertise, and indicates success in dealing with the public. So, no prizes for guessing why Strictly Come Dancing has been so popular for the last 20 years!

With both the Moon and Mercury in Aries - and Mercury in a sextile aspect to Venus - it was obvious that the show would be an immediate hit with the viewers. But Mercury is also in a square to Chiron which represents teaching - a vital part of the show - and also symbolises 'forbidden love'. Could this hint at the numerous affairs that have taken place within the show?

Throughout the history of the show there have been many rumours - and confirmations - of affairs taking place between the professional dancers and their celebrity partners, and also of relationships ending. Occurring well above the law of averages, this phenomenon has become known as 'The Strictly Curse'. But do curses exist and if so, can we see a 'curse' in the astrological chart? Astrological charts contain positive and negative energies. When these are triggered by other planets - transits, progressions, or the planets from another person's chart - positive or negative experiences tend to occur. If we define the word curse as the manifestation of negative energy, then it should be possible to find that influence in an astrological chart. 

Venus in an opposition aspect to Pluto in the Strictly chart indicates the discovery of hidden talents - which is what this show was designed for - but also upheavals in love, emotional intensity and sexual desire. Of course, Venus also rules music and dancing, and combined with Pluto the whole concept becomes much deeper and more complex with hidden undercurrents of unrequited lust. Cue the Strictly Curse!

In the Strictly Come Dancing chart Mars is in conjunction with Saturn. This planetary combination really puts the STRICT into STRICTLY! Participating in this show is something of an endurance test, and you really feel the need to prove yourself. There's physical suffering - mostly due to exhaustion and unaccustomed exercise - as well as the risk of potential injury. This show is extremely hard work. Discipline, perseverance, and a strong survival instinct are required to stave off the frustration felt by many of the contestants - and possibly the pro-dancers too. Mars in aspect to Saturn gives strong determination and sustained effort in the pursuit of goals. The creative energy of Mars is positively influenced by Saturn’s strong work ethic. Because this aspect is very authoritative, being judged, standing under a spotlight, and listening to that 'boom, boom, boom' music of the potential dance-off, are all symbolised by this planetary influence.

Mars in a trine aspect to Uranus shows the high physical energy required by both the contestants and professional dancers. This planetary combination indicates an exciting, adventurous experience with the unexpected opportunity for overnight success. This is very true for many of the celebrities who take part in Strictly. Although they are already famous for their own brand of entertainment, they often go on to achieve so much more after the contest has ended. Strictly is a high-octane show whose mass popularity propels even mediocre celebrities into media superstars.

Pluto in an opposition aspect to Lilith is a really big indicator of something that could symbolise the 'Strictly Curse'. Pluto represents transformation and within the context of Strictly Come Dancing we see this being manifested as celebrity contestants who have never danced before emerging as confident performers. Many of the female contestants describe the whole experience as a process of liberation, allowing them to freely express their sexuality (symbolised by Lilith) in a positive way. Primitive instincts which are normally suppressed because they are socially undesirable can be released 'safely' through dance. However, when spilling over into real life, they can result in negative behaviour such as compulsions, obsessions, jealousy or secret affairs.

CURRENT DILEMMA

At the moment, Strictly Come Dancing is once more embroiled in controversy. This time it's accusations towards a professional dancer from his former celebrity partners who claim he bullied them. As there is an internal investigation going on right now, I won't be commenting on the details of who is involved or if the allegations are true or not, but the SCD chart is rather stressed at the moment. One example is Solar Arc Pluto currently in an opposition aspect to the Strictly chart Saturn. This planetary combination indicates hard times through threats and distancing. It shows a lack of compassion and a hard-hearted attitude which can be very destructive. This Saturn-Pluto influence is compounded by transiting Saturn which is  approaching a square aspect to Strictly's natal Pluto. This will ease off during the rest of 2024 only to come back for an exact hit in March 2025. Other planetary influences right now include transiting Uranus conjunct the Strictly natal Sun. This indicates considerable unrest, inner tension and unexpected setbacks. 

What Is Love?

Nowadays, whenever the word 'love' is mentioned, most people automatically think about romance or sex. But love has several meanings, and one of the things you learn when you begin to study astrology is the many ways in which people express affection. The concept of love has been analysed for centuries, and still no-one can say for sure what it is. From my years of experience analysing charts here's my take on this complex subject.

There are many different varieties of love: passionate love - the kind that sends you out of your mind and is called being 'in love'. Joie de vivre - the love of life. That feeling you get when you're healthy and happy, and you don't need anyone else to make you feel that way. Cool, platonic love - the kind you feel towards, and from, your friends. Then there's the natural, instinctive love you feel for your family. And ethereal love - if you're religious, you'll know how this feels. But, even if you're not religious, you can still experience this by being spiritually aware.

Although love itself is intangible, there are quite a few regulations surrounding it. For example, with romantic/sexual love you can, under the normal rules of society, only have one partner at a time. But with platonic love, you can have as many friends as you want. Maybe that's one of the reasons why platonic relationships often last much longer than romantic ones. Friendship is a no-strings attachment. A sexual relationship is all-or-nothing. The concept of love is confusing at times because different people have different views about it. Love is often a collection of different feelings: admiration, respect, passion, desire, etc.

I often see really interesting love connections when I'm analysing people's charts. One thing I'm often asked about is the theory of soulmates. Do they exist - and if they do, does that mean that reincarnation also exists? After all, this is the basic premise for 'soulmates' - people coming back from beyond the grave to reunite with each other on earth. Bizarrely enough, astrology definitely seems to back up this theory. The Lunar Nodes are said to represent karma and past lives, so does Neptune and the 12th house. 

There is also something astrologers call Polarity, which in chart comparison between two people, indicates a strong relationship. It's found in more than 80% of marriages and other committed, long-term partnerships. Polarity occurs when a highly personal planet or point in one person's chart is in opposition - polarised - to a personal planet or point in the other. The points and planets used for this are the Sun, Moon, and Ascendant. Any combination is relevant: Sun opposite Sun, Moon opposite Moon, Sun opposite Ascendant, etc. 

However, one of the most interesting connections of all occurs when the Ascendant/Descendant axis of one chart is exactly in line with the Nodal Axis of the other. This indicates that the two people involved may have known each other in a past life, and when they were 'reunited' by meeting for the first time, they will have experienced an instant and powerful rapport. If you believe in reincarnation they're soulmates, although I must admit I'm still not sure whether I believe in it or not.... Whatever it all means, the Nodes are a very powerful force in synastry connections. 

The SNP

The Scottish National Party was formed on Saturday 7th April 1934 in Glasgow, Scotland, Uk. Before I begin, I need to make it clear that the following analysis is about the SNP (Scottish National Party) itself - not Scotland and not the people of Scotland. So, what you read below is in the context of the party's identity and its members - including the current Scottish Government.

COMING UP

On the 8th April 2024 there will be a Solar Eclipse at 19° Aries. Lasting for at least the next six months, this will trigger the Sun, Mars and Jupiter in the SNP natal chart bringing significant milestones. The SNP is 90 years old this year and it will be 10 years since the independence referendum, so perhaps those will be the milestones. They could be faced with a crisis and it's also possible that there will be a big revelation in connection to identity. Expect outbursts, and the eruption of underlying conflicts. Arguments or ongoing frustration could reach breaking point. If a particular situation comes to a head, it could be explosive and take months to sort out. 

Transiting Chiron has been conjunct the SNP Sun and Mars, as well as opposite the SNP Jupiter, since April 2023. Continuing until mid-2025, this influence brings power struggles, discrimination, xenophobia and a lot of disrespect. 

Between now and April 2025 there is a curious cluster of planets in the SNP Solar Return chart. A Stellium configuration comprising the Moon, Mars and Saturn in the sign of Pisces. Nothing particularly unusual at first glance. However, these planets rule the signs of Cancer, Aries and Capricorn - all of which are the Sun signs of previous First Ministers of Scotland: Nicola Sturgeon (Cancer), Alex Salmond (Capricorn) and John Swinney (Aries). Then, of course, the current FM, Humza Yousaf is also an Aries, as is Kate Forbes, a possible future FM. So, what does this mean? Are Sturgeon, Salmond and one or more of the Aries SNP members getting together for some reason? Will this be a collaboration? Watch this space.....

THE NEXT FOUR YEARS

Solar Arc Mars will be in a square aspect to the SNP Sun during 2024, 2025 and 2026. This will bring a strong desire to assert themselves aggressively. This planetary influence will create tension and frustration, leading to outbursts if they don’t get their own way. They may have to reach some compromise..Pushing too hard will get them nowhere.

During the same period (2024, 2025, 2026) Solar Arc Jupiter will also be square the SNP Sun. It could be easy to overdo anything under this planetary influence, so they should take care not to spend more than they can afford. This planetary combination is about doing things to excess and being self-indulgent. 

Another planetary influence around during this time is Solar Arc Saturn in a sextile to the SNP Pluto. This will bring progress, professional benefits, and the opportunity for growth. They will have the ability to make a big impact on the outside world but only if they eliminate weaknesses within the SNP itself. They need to gain control and will have to undergo some sort of social transformation or political test. The structure that the SNP has established during the last 90 years will change significantly,as this planetary influence marks the end of one era and the beginning of another. 

As an opposition unfolds between Solar Arc Lilith and the SNP Sun throughout the next three years, this influence will stir deep-seated emotions and a desire for power. However, in order to reap results, they will have to expand beyond their comfort zone and explore new possibilities.This period will bring the SNP many challenges - including a clash of egos - within the party and misjudging their potential or leadership abilities. All of which could take them down a dead-end street. A wild and emotional journey lies ahead during which their optimism may be overshadowed by disharmony. 

Solar Arc Eris, the planet of whistleblowers, troublemakers and gatecrashers, will be conjunct a World Point (0 Cancer) in the SNP chart until 2027. During this period it will bring a dilemma between professional goals, reputation and public image. There will be in-fighting and sh*t-stirring on such a large scale that the SNP will be headline news more so than usual. Provocation will be a problem and someone may try to incite a reaction by doing or saying something connected to legal matters..Refusing to take responsibility and blaming others will only result in the exposure of their hypocrisy. Whatever this is, it will become a very messy.situation.

THE HATE CRIME ACT

When former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that the next independence referendum would take place on 19th October 2023, I immediately knew that it wouldn't happen. How? Because she made the announcement on the day of a Full Moon. You should never begin anything on a Full Moon as this phase brings endings, so whatever you initiate just fades away. Similarly, it's also not beneficial to start something when transiting Mercury is in retrograde motion. Yet, on 1st April 2024, the SNP did just that with the launch of their new Hate Crime Act. Not a good omen.

The Princess Of Wales

As you will be aware, Kate, Princess Of Wales has just announced that she has cancer and is currently undergoing treatment. So, here is what's going on in her chart.

On the day of her surgery, (17th January) the transiting Sun was in a square aspect to Kate's natal Pluto which indicates tremendous intensity. As anyone who has been through major surgery knows, it is an extremely stressful experience on every level, physically, emotionally and psychologically. 

Transiting Mars was in a square to Kate's natal Mars on that day and during the days after, creating a feeling of pressure and erratic energy levels. This is normal for someone undergoing surgery - one minute you're full of courage, the next you're terrified at the prospect of what might happen during and after the operation. Interestingly, this planetary combination exaggerates opinions and triggers a lack of neutrality and a tendency towards fanaticism. Exactly what's been happening in the media.

Transiting Uranus conjunct her natal Chiron until the beginning of April 2024 will have made Kate feel very alone and perhaps isolated. Chiron symbolises the healing of deep wounds and can bring painful experiences, both physical and emotional. Sensitivity is heightened under this planetary influence and she will be feeling very vulnerable. 

Transiting Uranus square her natal Ascendant will have brought nervous tension and upset for Kate. This planetary influence which will continue until mid-May 2024 is associated with instability and disruption to the normal routine. It brings a major shakeup to the status quo which will be challenging especially in connection to her personal freedom and self-expression.

Transiting Chiron is square Kate's natal Sun and Moon until early May 2024. This planetary influence tends to bring feelings of alienation or depression. Traumatic issues connected to health will result in a major change to daily habits or lifestyle. The health crisis she has experienced will make her more aware of her body and it's functions. 

With Solar Arc Chiron conjunct a World Point at 0° Cancer, it's no wonder Kate's health has caused so much emotional reaction from the public. When she emerges from her recuperation to resume her public duties there will be a surge of compassion flowing towards her.

COMING UP....

A Solar Eclipse on 8th April will be in a square aspect to Kate's natal Sun and Moon. This will bring a six-month period of extreme sensitivity, and maybe confusion. A problem with details will cause more questions than answers. There will be a major change in how others perceive Kate or in how she perceives herself and she will be protected much more than usual.

Throughout April, transiting Jupiter will be in a very positive trine aspect to Kate's natal Sun. This influence indicates good health and a feeling of well-being, although she may not feel inclined toward physical activity, but will be keen to get some exercise, especially outdoors.

From mid-May 2024 until the end of February 2025, transiting Saturn will be in a sextile aspect to Kate's natal Sun. This influence will present many positive opportunities. She will have more patience and perseverance than usual and will be building up her strength. This will be a period of successful preparation for the future.

Kate, we wish you well 💗

Alex Batty

Alex Batty, who went missing at the age of 11 on 30th September 2017 and subsequently reappeared six years later on 13th December 2023, after successfully fleeing his mother’s hippy lifestyle in France to be reunited with his beloved grandmother and legal guardian, is 18 years old today. He was born on Monday 13th February 2006 in Oldham, Lancashire, England. No birth time is available.

With his natal Sun in the sign of Aquarius, Alex is a an independent thinker. It came as no surprise to me that Alex was born under the sign of Aquarius as he had obviously avoided being manipulated by those (his mother and grandfather) who took him away from home. Aquarius people always manage to maintain their individuality no matter what circumstances they find themselves in. On top of that, they are extremely stubborn which means they refuse to be pushed around by others. Very useful if you need to avoid being sucked into someone else's fantasies. Having said that, this was no mean feat for this young man who was only 11 years old when this all began. 

Alex was born on, or close to, a Full Moon. This indicates an active mind and lively imagination. He will be well suited for leadership roles and will possess a real ability for public life. Alex is a free spirit, but at the same time he will have a need to work and to share his life with other people. Because of his interest for new ideas, he will enjoy studying science, technology and other subjects. He will always stand up for anyone who is not being treated fairly and I wouldn't be surprised if he gets involved in politics later in life.

With his natal Sun in a square aspect to Mars, Alex is courageous and strong-willed. When he is faced with a problem or an obstacle, he won’t run away from it or hide - he will meet challenges head-on. This planetary combination gives him the ability to fight for what he wants and needs. He is likely to seek an exciting career that will allow the expression of his natural enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit. When he stands up for his beliefs and values, he will inspire others to follow his lead.

The natal Sun square Jupiter in Alex's natal chart shows he is generous, helpful, and charitable. One day, he will influence many people and make a real impact as he will have the self confidence to promote himself and his ideas to a worldwide audience. He will be keen to take risks and to branch out into areas as yet unexplored. The ability to project into the future and to see the big picture, will bring the capacity to become prominent and succeed in life in a big way. 

In Alex's natal chart the Sun is in a sextile aspect to Pluto. This planetary combination indicates great creative potential as he is both perceptive and imaginative. Transforming himself through inner development will bring tremendous wealth.

Natal Mercury conjunct Uranus represents the mind of a genius. There is no doubt that Alex possesses amazing potential through originality, intuition and a forward-looking attitude. In the years to come he may develop an intellectual concern with humanitarian or social issues. His thoughts will be shaped by friends, organisations or groups of like-minded people and he will become a spokesperson for important causes. He is inventive, self-reliant and astute - qualities that will take him far on his journey through life.

With Venus in a positive sextile aspect to Jupiter in his natal chart, Alex is sociable and popular. Warm, friendly and with a fantastic sense of humour, he has a powerful philosophical outlook on life and and a strong sense of fair play and equality. People with this aspect often have musical or other creative talents. Writing is a definite possibility.

Natal Mars in the sign of Taurus brings Alex tremendous levels of endurance. Mars is the planet of anger and Taurus is the sign of quiet strength. As a result, he will try to avoid confrontation as much as possible. If he ever does get angry, he will make his feelings known in no uncertain manner. Mars in Taurus gives Alex tenacity, so if he wants something, he will work very hard to get it. And this is the reason he is back home where he belongs. 

Happy Birthday, Alex.

February - Leaping Forward

February is the shortest month of the year and the only month with fewer than 30 days. It has 28 days in a normal year and 29 in a Leap Year. This is to keep the calendar year synchronised with the astronomical year because seasons and astronomical events do not repeat in a whole number of days. By inserting an additional day into the year, the anomaly can be corrected. Having only 28 days, February can sometimes pass without having any Full Moon.

February is a fascinating month. It was named Februarius by the Romans, from the Latin word for purification - februum - and they held a purification ritual named Februa on the 15th day of the month. January and February were the last two months to be added to the Roman calendar, circa 713 BC. At that time, each year officially began in March and there were only 10 months. Adding January and February increased it to twelve. I actually think the Romans had the right idea beginning the new year in spring, and of course, this coincided with the first sign of the Zodiac - Aries. The Spring Equinox is still considered by astrologers to be the 'Astrological New Year'. February remained the last month of the calendar year until circa 450 BC when the start of the year was moved to January.

As an astrologer, I'm often asked how being born on 29th February affects someone's chart. It doesn't actually make a lot of difference. The Sun on the 28th February is positioned at approximately 8° Pisces and the following day on 1st March it is 9° Pisces. In a year when the 29th is the final day of February, the Sun is at 9° Pisces and on the 1st March it's 10° Pisces. This change in astrological degree continues for about two years then gradually returns to its original position before jumping forward again at the next Leap Year. 

I'm also often asked another question by people who were born on 29th February: "When should I celebrate my birthday? Every four years, 28th February, or 1st March?" Some people think, for accuracy, they should only have a birthday every four years. I disagree. Technically, you were born on the last day of the month, so keep it simple and celebrate your birthday on the 28th February. 

2024 - Part 2

The big astrological theme of 2024 is the conjunction of Jupiter and Uranus, for the first time in 14 years, from 9th April until 5th May 2024 - exact on 20th April. When two planets conjunct each other it marks the beginning of something new as a conjunction is the initiation aspect. The planets are in the same degree of the zodiac and because of this their energies are combined to great effect. 

Jupiter and Uranus symbolise advanced communication, higher education and radical ideas. Sudden, unexpected breakthroughs or awakenings will occur which could prove to be very positive and beneficial. Something will develop very quickly which will lead to greater freedom and innovation. This planetary aspect is a prelude to both Jupiter entering Gemini in 2024 and Uranus transiting through Gemini from 2025 onwards when the implementation of breath-taking new technology will arrive.

The conjunction of transiting Jupiter with transiting Uranus takes place at 21° Taurus. This is the degree that Uranus occupied at the beginning of World War II. At the same time, transiting Pluto will be at 2° Aquarius - also triggering its WWII position at 2° Leo. The World War II chart is being re-activated and this is a common occurrence when a new war begins. I'm not saying to expect World War III  - although that is a possibility - but there could be a serious escalation in worldwide conflicts. Transiting Uranus is very prominent at the beginning and the end of wars, presumably because it represents people coming together for a specific purpose. The gathering of armies is a prime example. Jupiter rules treaties, borders between countries and the promotion of peace and diplomacy. Let's hope that is what we get.

During the same period as the Jupiter Uranus conjunction, transiting Mercury will be conjunct the North Node. All three are planets of intellect, movement and communication and the transiting North Node represents the collective destiny, the way forward for all of us. So it will be very interesting to see the message we receive during that period, the inventions we will make and the ideas we will come up with. Both Jupiter and Uranus symbolise truth, justice and mind-boggling discoveries. 

YOUR BIRTHDAY: If you were born between 9th April and 5th May the Jupiter Uranus conjunction will influence you for 12 months until your next birthday in 2025. This is a very dynamic planetary combination which will bring very pleasant surprises leading to success. Forming a connection with a certain group of people will result in happiness. Making an advantageous decision - which is more likely under this influence - will help you to resolve a problematic situation. Changing your direction will improve your circumstances.

From 22nd May to the 17th June 2024, Jupiter will be in a trine aspect to Pluto. This planetary combination symbolises the ability to uncover the truth. The truth about what? Or whom? I see the media being obsessed with someone during this period who might become excluded from society for some reason. Perhaps they will choose to live in exile, or maybe they will be imprisoned. 

From early April 2024, transiting Neptune will be in the final two degrees of Pisces and conjunct the Aries Point. This is 0° Aries, the very first degree of the entire zodiac and one of the World Points. In 2025, both Neptune and Saturn will not only be on this point but they will be conjunct each other. This year we will begin to get a taste of what's to come. 

One final note.... Remember the fuss about UFOs and cover-ups in 2023? Well, expect more from now on.