Darcey Bussell - Darcey Bussell Battled Depression

Bussell ended her starry career when she took her final bow in 2007 with a performance at London's legendary Royal Opera House, receiving a standing ovation which lasted more than eight minutes.

But the 43 year old admits she hit rock bottom after stepping away from the spotlight because she desperately missed the stage.

She tells The Sunday Times Culture magazine, "From a child, I wanted to be a dancer, but do I have another identity - or is that it?...

"I got depressed (after retiring). I didn't appreciate how low I got. My husband did. He said, 'You know, Darcey, you're better when you're busy.' I thought it was weakness to show you couldn't cope."

Bussell has since returned to the dance world by taking lessons in new genres and signing up to judge U.K. TV talent show Strictly Come Dancing.

She adds, "As soon as I was moving, I was happy. It didn't have to be about perfection. There are so many styles to enjoy."