Next stop: Blackpool Tower Ballroom
Thanks for watching along with me, glittery gang. Our magnificent seven pairings now progress to the ninth live show, live from the fabled Tower Ballroom with its Victorian splendour and bouncy sprung dancefloor.
The seaside special airs next Saturday at 6.35pm on BBC1 with all manner of surprise guests and sparkly treats. Meet you back here to sort the dancing donkeys from the hoofing thoroughbreds.
In the meantime, it barely needs repeating: keeeeep dancing! Have a lovely week and see you in Blackpool. Mine’s a haddock and chips, plenty of salt and vinegar. Goodnight!
Finally, Bigted1980 says: “Bad luck for Vicky this week, not her dance :( Really taken by what a lovely young woman she is.”
lester48 says: “A shame for Kai, because I thought at one point Vicky and himself had a chance of getting to the final.”
Alan99999 says: “Vicky found her confidence last week but got the wrong dance to build on it.”
joanieloves says: “Poor Vicky. Gutted for her but that dance was all over the place. Such a shame, love her.”
shazza2704 says: “Have to agree with the judges. Vicky looked so heavy and exposed in that dance, bless her. The dreadful song and dress certainly didn’t help.”
AndyPandy21 adds: “Well done, lovely Balvinder, who progresses again. Vicky and Kai have given us some lovely moments of dance over the weeks. All so appreciated.”
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Styletraveller says: “I still think Bal is just one welly away from being amazing. She just needs to find it.”
EmmyHarb says: “I loved Bal’s honesty in saying ‘I don’t want to do it’ rather than giving the PR answer of ‘I’ll give it my best shot’ or similar.”
Lidoswimmer adds: “The right choice but sad to see Vicky go with that dance and music choice. Hope Balvinder can relax and enjoy the next stage and not be weighed down by the dance-offs. She’s a lovely part of this season.”
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LegTheory says: “Vicky has to hold this together is she wants to go through. She looks really nervous.”
Lidoswimmer says: “Feels like it was inevitable for Vicky and Balvinder. Think it’s time for Bal to bow out and she’s been fabulous. But Craig will definitely go for the technicalities in the dances themselves, so who knows?”
Outolokowski adds: “Well, I loved Bal & Julian’s American smooth last night, and that was even better. Vicky looks like she’s wearing diving weights.”
Vicc says: “That was a joyous group dance. Love Diversity. Worked really well. I now have a big smile!”
diamondcat says: “I think I shall be watching that pro dance again. Absolutely incredible.”
Somersetlass says: “OK, I know I said I long for more classic ballroom from the pros, but that was pure joy! Literally whooping here on the sofa.”
giroliddy adds: “Love this song by Raye but must admit to some disappointment when I realised it was more ‘Why hasn’t Mr Right shown up yet?’ and not, ‘Where the bloody hell is George? He said he’s be home in time to cook the lunch and now it’s half past five. He always flippin’ does this.’”
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IvanTiger says: “Olly Murs? The pound shop Robbie Williams? Where are Boe & Ball, I wonder?”
Gardener_Maidhc replies: “Hopefully locked in separate dungeons, far away from any BBC cameras, lest they ‘sing’.”
jennyloo says: “The wardrobe dept obviously had some spangles left from Tess’s dress, so had a go at Olly’s jacket.”
MikeMoonlight adds: “Olly Murs always makes me think that a Pontin’s Holiday Camp somewhere is missing their assistant entertainments manager.”
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Readers’ verdicts are in
Time for a snappy vox pop of your comments. jagadox says: “I always think the idea of ‘leaving everything on the dancefloor’ to be vaguely disgusting. Or disquieting. Or both.”
EmmyHarb says: “I feel that if Tess and Claud were wearing each other’s outfits, then Michael will still have chosen Claude as the winner.”
Lynne on email agrees: “Claud could be dressed in a bin liner and you’d give her the win. Tess’s outfit was so much better tonight.”
AndyPandy21 adds: “I think to reward our Michael for his hard work on the blog and services to Strictly, Bill Deamer should be asked to create a Dogwalkers’ Detective Agency-themed routine. Dave and his gang could create a suitable canine medley: Hound Dog, You & Me & A Dog Named Boo etc. What could be more endearing that seeing our pros costumed as assorted dogs? Although I suggest the Strictly lamp-post does not appear in this one, just in case anyone has done any method acting! How about a ‘canine freestyle’?”
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Strictly alumni jive around the jungle
TV viewers can now stay on BBC1 for Antiques Roadshow, flip to ITV1 for Bullseye or head to Channel 4 for Game Of Wool: Britain’s Best Knitter.
At 9pm, I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here returns to ITV1 – with Strictly alumni Alex Scott, Eddie Kadi and Lisa Riley among the campmates. There’s also new drama Summerwater on Channel 4 or the finale of Riot Women on BBC1.
Tonight’s film picks are Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (9pm on E4), The Quick & The Dead (9pm on Legend), Twins (9pm on Comedy Central), The Untouchables (10pm on BBC2) and Bridget Jones’s Baby (10.35pm on BBC1). That’s the Chicago way. And that’s how you get Capone.
George and La Voix can count themselves lucky
There was a following wind behind La Voix making it to Blackpool. It will be a homecoming performance for her, since it’s where her drag queen career began. Last night’s razzle-dazzle Couple’s Choice was built in a lab to get her there. As the lowest scorer left in the contest, she might well go out on a seaside high but making it up the M6 was her aim all along.
Also mopping his brow on the Blackpool bus will be George Clarke, who saw a five-point dip in his score. He was only two points above the dance-off duo after an emotional routine which was more contempo-waft than rumba. The YouTuber could still be a potential finalist but needs to get his scores out of the late 20s and early 30s sharpish.
Gentlemanly Kai did a canny job
After being bafflingly left on the subs’ bench last year, homegrown pro Kai Widdrington can be forgiven for harbouring hopes of reaching his second final. Vicky Pattison was by no means a natural dancer and was crippled with stage-fright for the first month of the contest.
However, they got on famously and he coaxed the best out of her. Improving their score for six weeks in a row is testament to Kai’s teaching and choreography. After last week’s 39-point tango, he said proudly “It felt like dancing with a professional.”
Sadly, the jive proved a challenge too far. After going all the way with AJ Odudu in 2021, Kai seems to work best with bubbly, leggy northern lasses. He did his reputation no harm at all this series and deserves another promising partner next year.
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Balvinder is becoming the great survivor
EastEnders actor Balvinder Sopal is displaying admirable resilience. She has now won four dance-offs in six weeks, successfully seeing off Ross King, Chris Robshaw, Ellie Goldstein and now Vicky Pattison. It’s testament to her hard work with pro partner Julian Caillon and how they’ve put on their game-faces every time. Nerves of steel.
She will surely be bookies’ favourite to be knocked out next, as she has been for more than a month now. Can she defy the odds yet again? If not, the Tower Ballroom is the perfect place to bow out. Balvinder has done brilliantly to get there. Hopefully she can now just relax and enjoy the occasion.
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Gone too soon but Vicky was the people’s champion
She might have been crowned Queen Of The Jungle on I’m a Celebrity a decade ago but sadly she wasn’t queen of the jive. Her struggles with the tricky dance style saw Vicky Pattison plummet from top of the scoreboard last week to bottom place this time. It was some fall from grace and it proved her undoing. She bows out on her 38th birthday. Worst present ever.
“Wrong dance, wrong week,” said judge Anton du Beke. Vcky looked nervous during the dance-off, while her opposite number Balvinder rose to the occasion once again.
Vicky’s has been a textbook Strictly journey™. She started the series utterly terrified, with no dance experience, pointing out that she liked “the sofa and sausage rolls” too much to be physically fit. However, she formed a strong bond with partner Kai Widdrington and grafted her socks off – as demonstrated by the fact that she was the only celebrity to improve her score every week for the first six live shows.
Her highlights were her military-meets-streetdance Couple’s Choice and her near-perfect 39-point tango, which remains the highest score by a female celebrity all series. She loved dancing to fellow Geordies like Sam Fender and Cheryl, not to mention pop divas Madonna and Taylor Swift.
Whole-hearted and enormously charming, the canny lass with sass had a lovely turn of phrase. She had “posture like a croissant”, felt like “a sausage in a skin” in her frocks, was “thrilled to ribbons” to be paired with Kai and wanted her routines to “tickle Shirley’s pickle”. She compared herself to a different animal for each dance, memorably a “turbo sloth”, “graceful giraffe” and “angry badger”. Clearly adored by her castmates, she was clutched in congratulatory cuddles after every performance.
For me, Vicky departs too soon. On scores alone, she deserved to outlast Balvinder and La Voix. In terms of improvement, possibly even Karen and George too. Reaching Blackpool would have meant a lot. Her late grandparents “Mave and Dave” were Strictly superfans who once danced in the Tower Ballroom themselves. She would have loved to pay tribute there.
A shame but for someone who half-expected to be knocked out in week one, V-Patz has done herself proud. At least she can now be reunited with her two labradors, Max and Milo. Oh and her husband Ercan. Mustn’t forget him. Dogs, though.
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Vicky and Kai’s last dance Rickrolls us
As the eliminated couple take a final twirl around the dancefloor to Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley (tune), the credits roll and their castmates crowd in for cuddles.
Please stay with us for analysis, reaction and a round-up of your comments.
Kai returns the compliment
Vicky’s partner Kai Widdrington says: “Oh, goodness me. Where do I start? Vicky is everything this series is about. Strong, confident, independent - and all that I can say is, I have loved every single second.
“I’m going to be gutted not coming to Blackpool with you on Monday. But I just want you to know that I feel like I have also won getting you as my partner and you will live on in Strictly history forever.”
Aww, what a gent.
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Howay, Vicky lass
In her exit interview with Tess Daly, Vicky says: “It was so lovely while it lasted. I’ve had the nicest time. I knew this week was a difficult one for me and I tried my hardest, as I have every week. Listen, I didn’t think I’d get past week one. And I’m really honoured to have shared this experience with so many amazing people. Mostly with this fella [Kai] right here. I don’t want to sound too cheesy but you’ve been the best partner a girl can ask for. I’m so sorry I didn’t get you to Blackpool but I feel like I’ve won just by having you as my partner and I’m so grateful.
“I’ll miss everybody. I enjoyed it loads more than I thought I was going to. And I know I let my nerves get in the way – Shirley, you are right - and I will proper beat myself up over that. But I’ve never danced before sober and here I am – sober as a judge!”
Well said. Gawd love her.
Craig’s crucial casting vote isn’t needed
It’s his turn this week and although it isn’t decisive, Mr Revel Horwood would also have chosen to save Balvinder and Julian, saying “they showed a marked improvement”.
Vicky Pattison is eliminated
There we have it. Vicky becomes the seventh celebrity to be eliminated and the eight overall to depart the Strictly 2025 dancefloor.
Anton du Beke chooses to save…
Balvinder and Julian, saying “evenly contested but they were cleaner”.
Head judge Shirley Ballas chooses to save…
Balvinder and Julian, saying “they controlled their nerves and even improved, while Vicky and Kai got out of sync”.
Motsi Mabuse chooses to save…
Balvinder and Julian, saying “their musicality and rhythm was better”.
Verdict time
Let’s hear from the panel whose decision counts. They all scored both dances the same last night – sixes from Craig, sevens from the rest – so we’re talking about tight margins.
Remember One True Voice, the winning boyband from Popstars: The Rivals? And their debut single Sacred Trust? Me neither. Ahem.
Vicky takes her turn
Vicky Pattison and her pro partner Kai Widdrington now have another go at their jive to Sound of the Underground by Girls Aloud. The judges said last night that her weight got too far back, while she needed to work on her standing leg and retraction.
It scored 27 points, the same as Balvinder. All about the details and improvements now.
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Balvinder goes first in dance-off
Balvinder Sopal and her pro partner Julian Caillon reprise their American smooth to My Guy by Mary Wells. The judges said last night that it was a little cautious in hold and she needs to work on her upper half. It scored 27 points, the same as Vicky, so this could be a close call. Can Balvinder raise her game and hope Vicky doesn’t?
He’s like a Pearly King with mumps.
That is quite some coat that Mr Murs is wearing. And not in a good way.
Olly Murs runs this town
This town being Borehamwood in Herts, presumably. Musical interlude now from Olly Murs, performing Run This Town – his recent ska-inspired single, co-written by Preston from The Ordinary Boys. Yep, him of Celebrity Big Brother showmance with Chantelle fame.
Choreographic accompaniment is provided by Amy Dowden, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas and Nancy Xu #justicefornancy (I’m going to keep this hashtag going until it catches on and you can’t stop me).
George and Alexis are dancing a Blackpool salsa to Bob Sinclar and Cutee B, via C&C Music Factory. SPICY.
Karen and Carlos are dancing a paso doble in Blackpool to the Old Spice song (yes, I know it’s not called that). THE MARK OF A MAN.
Which means Karen and George are safe
The last two pairs mop their brows and progress north to Blackpool.
Neither of them wants to eliminate each other, sweetly. But sadly, they will have to.
Balvinder faces Vicky in the dance-off
Again, no great surprise. Balvinder Sopal and her pro partner Julian Caillon are in the dance-off for the fourth time.
Vicky Pattison in dance-off for first time
Well, she was joint bottom of the scoreboard so perhaps’s that’s no surprise. Vicky Pattison and her pro partner Kai Widdrington are in their first dance-off. But who will they be up against?
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Crunch time again
The dreaded red light is back to do its dastardly thing. Let’s find out who else will be heading up the M6 – and who might suffer hard shoulder heartbreak.
Anton Du Beke praises Amber and Nikita’s cape-ography. And then gets roundly ridiculed for his own dance moves.
Craig admires the way that Lewis Cope takes charge and says he’s “a sensation”.
Shirley commends Alex Kingston’s footwork in the highest-scoring waltz of the series so far. No tiny Victorian ghost child’s shoes required, thankfully
Motsi says of La Voix “We need it”. Really? She should’ve mentioned this.
Dance debrief
The paddle-raising panel perch on Claudia’s banquette for a breakdown of last night’s dances. They discuss the topsy-turvy leaderboard and emotions running high.
“Your husband is coming,” says Jojo. Iconic. A rapturous response from the studio audience. That was stunning and spectacular, no?
Tumbles and backflips through the studio audience. Now into a bit of Taylor Swift’s Look What You Made Me Do, Beyonce and Jay-Z’s Crazy In Love, and Pussycat Dolls’ Doncha.
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It’s set to a medley of tunes, currently Raye’s Where The Hell Is My Husband? Creatively choreographed, with Ashley Banjo’s crew working thrillingly alongside the Strictly pros.
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Diversity join the pros
A special collaboration now between the Strictly professionals and award-winning streetdance troupe Diversity. They’re teaming up for a special group number that sees hip-hop collide with the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Next week, “Mission Cope” will be complete – the last two of his 13 siblings are coming to the Tower Ballroom. Lewis and Katya are dancing a Charleston to the Arctic Monkeys next week. Words I never thought I’d type.
Nikita and Amber are dancing a quickstep to Rach by S Club 7. He demonstrates with Claudia, who says “I’m 53” but has now moved on from Dave Arch. Fickle.
It will be Aljaž’s sixth time in Blackpool, the most of any current pro. They’re dancing a samba to Love Is In The Air next week. Strictly Ballroom vibes. It’ll be like the Pan-Pacifics.
La Voix goes full circle
Up in the Clauditorium with the four Blackpool-bound couples who are safely through to Blackpool, the drag queen says that if you cut her in half, it says “Big Dipper” all the way through.
La Voix is going to Blackpool
She’s sweetly jubilant. So are Alex Kingston, Amber Davies and Lewis Cope. Oh, Nikita’s put a top on now. Maybe his mum had a word.
Dreaded red lightbulb of doom
Scarlet spotlight time. Time to find out who’s booked their seat on the Blackpool bus and who might be left in the Elstree car park.
Our Strictly stars™
Our edgy eight couples wait to hear their fates. Frisky fisherman’s friend Nikita still hasn’t remembered to put his top on, the silly sausage. It’s mid-November, he’ll catch his death.
Amber’s leaderboard-topping paso! Lewis’ power-packed tango! Alex’s wafty waltz! George’s not-really-rumba! La Voix does Babs! Lots of blubbing!
The paddle-raising panel of Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Shirley Ballas discuss last night’s action. They’ll be breaking somebody’s Blackpool heart later, the swines.
Frockwatch
Here’s our hostly duo, so let’s do a gown rundown. Tess Daly is in a black mid-length frock with jazzy shoulder embellishments. Claudia Winkleman is in a ruffly pale pink blouse. Claud wins, making it a clean sweep for La Winkle this weekend.
Cue clap-along credits
Play that ba-ba-da theme tune and roll those familiar titles. But which pair won’t be needing their bucket and spade?
Aaaaand we’re off!
We get underway with a behind-the-scenes VT from last night. Pecs! Hugs! Rock ’n’ roll!
Raid the fridge, adjust the thermostat (if you’re allowed - you know how he gets) and take your sofa seats. We’re about to return to the Elstree Studios ballroom…
Neil Jones takes compassionate leave
In case you were wondering where cult hero pro Ginger Neil was last night, he announced on Thursday night that his beloved father David had sadly died. We send our liveblog love and condolences to Neil and his family.
It’s a mere five minutes until the sequin-spangled curtain comes up…
David Attenborough-narrated wildlife series Kingdom just coming to a close on BBC1. The trauma. The tragedy. Nature red in tooth and claw. Leave those wild dog pups alone, you villainous lions.
Craig gets the casting vote
It was announced in last night’s live show that this week’s crucial dance-off vote goes to judge Craig Revel Horwood. At least we can rely on calm, collected Craig for sensible decision-making. Ten minutes until choreographic kick-off…
Gold, frankincense and Murs
Tonight’s musical guest is Oliver Stanley Murs, aka Olly, performing his skanking new single – which is co-written by someone you might remember. I shall reveal all later. It’s 15 minutes until showtime…
More perfect 10 paddles raised last night
The judges awarded two maximums to Amber Davies’ paso doble last night plus another to Lewis Cope’s tango, taking the total to 17 so far this series. We an safely expect more 10s in Blackpool, I’d wager, as the sea air goes to everyone’s heads.
Start some light stretches. It’s 20 minutes until we’re back in the ballroom…
Diversity in the ballroom? Typical BBC, amIrite?
It’s choreographic correctness gone mad. Tonight’s group dance sees the first ever collaboration between the Strictly pros and streetdance troupe Diversity. Should be a cracker.
It’s 25 minutes until that mirrorball starts spinning again…
Will it be fourth time unlucky for Bal?
Coming into this weekend, bookies’ odds-on favourite for elimination was Balvinder Sopal. Will last night’s American smooth and votes from EastEnders fans be enough to save her from a fourth dance-off?
And if not, will she be competing with Vicky Pattison, George Clarke or someone more surprising? Half an hour until we get our first choreographic clues…
Who will miss out on the Blackpool bonanza?
The sparkly bus north to the Tower Ballroom is due to depart – but one couple will be denied a seat. Good evening and welcome to the latest elimination from Strictly Come Dancing 2025. I’m Michael, your glittery guide to tonight’s results show. You are warmly invited to watch along with me as somebody suffers Blackpool hoofing heartbreak.
Following last night’s tear-sodden live show, our excellent eight pro-celebrity pairings will be cruelly cut down to a magnificent seven. The judges’ scores have been combined with the public vote and tonight the bottom two will dance-off for survival. So who’s at risk of having their Tower Ballroom hopes dashed?
Balvinder Sopal and Vicky Pattison were tied at the bottom of the standings, with George Clarke just above. But will voting viewers agree? If not, the likes of Karen Carney, La Voix and even leaderboard-topping Amber Davies could be in for a seaside surprise.
It’s results showtime at 7.15pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 6.45pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and hankie-on-head asides. So close the curtains on Storm Claudia (the major meteorological incident, not Winkleman) and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As always, I’d love to hear from you too. You can tweet/“X” me @michaelhogan, contact me on Bluesky or Threads @michaelhogan100, email me michael.hogan.freelance@guardian.co.uk and the comments section below is open for pre-Blackpool badinage. I’ll rise, fall, swing and sway down there from time to time to eavesdrop on the chat and quote your wise words up top.
You can almost taste the fish and chips on the pebbly Pleasure Beach. Nearly time to staaaaaart seaside eliminating!
Thank you and a glittery goodnight - for now
Who’s Blackpool-bound and who’s doomed for minibreak heartbreak? That concludes tonight’s red-hot hoofing action but we’ll be back on the ballroom beat for the results show, which airs at 7.15pm Sunday on BBC1. I’ll fire up the blog at 6.45pm for build-up, so please rejoin me then.
In the meantime, I’m @michaelhogan on Twitter/X and @michaelhogan100 pretty much everywhere else, so please feel free to give me a follow or say hi.
As always, thanks for watching along with me, glitterball gang. Hope to see you at the same time, same place tomorrow. Until then, it’s the fabulous family motto: keeeeeep dancing! Goodnight.
Talking of dogs, a shout-out to Vicky Pattison’s two labradors, Max and Milo, visiting her in training. Loved that waggy tail thwacking her in the face and them leaping to cuddle her post-dance. I believe one of them was a Dogs Trust rescue, so even better.
It’s stormy outside, so what better than staying in with some canine cosy crime? Come on, it wouldn’t be a liveblog without a swift plug for my debut novel, The Dogwalkers’ Detective Agency. Out now in paw-some paperback and the ebook is available for a wag-ulous 99p for a limited time only. You can order here if you want me to love you even more than I do already.
And thank you again for all the lovely commenters who’ve already been reading and saying nice things. It truly means a lot. I’ll stop talking now. We’ve had enough tears for tonight.
Finally, on La Voix, YodaknowsAll says: “What a showstopper from AliVoix. I have no superlatives. Best dance of the night by a country mile.”
fihema says: “I know this is a dance competition, but living a dance and loving a dance doesn’t mean perfection. It means feeling. I loved that dance from La Voix, Chris and Aljaz. More of that, please.”
DotGranville says: “I needed more steps and more glitz from La Voix tonight. It wasn’t quite enough.”
Poppieshen says: “Lovely showbiz-style fun from La Voix and Aljaz. I get it’s not technically fantastic but a joy to watch.”
Somersetlass adds: “Dance of the night! Genuinely jaw-dropping stuff from La Voix and Aljaž, packed with ballroom and showbiz content, full of character and simply life-affirming. A few mistakes, but who cares?”
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On Lewis Cope, Poppieshen says: “I don’t care how much of a ‘ringer’ Lewis is. He and Katya are amazing to watch every week.”
shazza2704 says: “Despite dreadful lighting and singing, best dance of the night so far. Kudos to Katya, she is one heck of a choreographer.”
Somersetlass says: “Wonderful staccato moves from Lewis and Katya, and a tango brimming with restrained passion and power.”
Jennifera030 adds: “I don’t want to love Lewis but I’ll be damned if I can stop myself. He is so in control of everything he does, except for his thumb apparently. When he goes from full-on to motionless, his command is outstanding.”
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On George Clarke, Phoebe says: “I love George but sadly did not care for that rumba very much. I missed the intro and thought it was a Couple’s Choice.”
Audreyshandbag says: “Oh dear! George has fallen victim to shaky choreography again.”
fihema says: “I think Alexis is on as much of a learning journey as George and the other celebs. Julian, too, but he seems slightly more in tune with what the job requires. It’s sad to see celebs penalised for what is the pros’ area of responsibility.”
AndyPandy21 adds: “Well, I for one enjoyed watching George and Alexis. Despite a couple of minor technical and timing problems, despite questions about the routine, I am glad that Anton mentioned George’s musicality. As an interpretation of the music through movement and gesture I thought he did himself credit. So much better than the last two weeks.”
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On Karen Carney, GDPD1971 says: “Well, I don’t care what the judges say. Karen gives each performance her very best and as far as I’m concerned, her ‘journey’ is outstanding. The interpretation of the song was brilliant. I thought that’s what it was all about. Some are ‘ringers’ and she isn’t.”
NanaNootka says: “Love how Karen’s personality and athleticism shines through the dance. Unlike Anton & Craig, I enjoyed the spiky brittle nature of that dance as it totally suited the music. Loved the costume too. Well done, Vicky Gill. If everyone was floaty, it would be boring!”
AuRun1 says: “That was a very odd American smooth. Carlos added a lot of drama, which played to Karen’s strengths. Enjoyed the dance, but not a good American Smooth.
diamondcat adds: “Karen moved around that floor like a very cross gazelle. Loved it!”
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On Vicky Pattison, gladarvor says: “Not Vicky’s dance. It looked a bit heavy and she didn’t look comfortable with it. How that yellow samba dress finds its way to a jive with an 80s look to the décor is anyone’s guess.”
VelvetinaB says: “Great effort from Vicky, although she didn’t achieve the light high-kicking the judges like.”
fihema adds: “That was not what it could’ve been. Shame. Performers in yellow, isn’t it?”
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On Alex Kingston, paperview says: “This waltz is probably Alex’s best dance. You can see all the work she has put in.”
Somersetlass says: “Watching Alex and Jojo with a thoroughly soppy smile on my face. Beautiful lines, impeccable footwork and properly romantic. Loved it.”
Lidoswimmer adds: “Well, that was lovely. Real heart, storytelling and proper dancing, not just a performance. Alex is so elegant, which is definitely enhanced by dancing with JoJo.”
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MarkRoche says about Amber Davies’ paso doble: “Crikey, despite the singing and the ringer, what a bloody marvellous dance that was.”
diamondcat says: “I’m surprised Amber wasn’t seasick being thrown about like that!”
ReclinedPotato adds: “I must say I’m impressed at how Amber managed to be completely absent from my vision during that dance.”
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Readers’ verdicts are in
A swift straw poll of your comments. G1adys says: “Crikey, that’s everyone bewlow-the-line drunk already after that full-on Blackpool intro.”
ReclinedPotato says: “Is it just me or does the first dance of the night generally get lower scores?”
Lidoswimmer says: “Balvinder is lovely and it’s always good to see a genuine beginner come on so much, but I fear the combination of first spot and an OK-but-not-great dance may mean another dance-off.”
MartGray says: “That was GAW-GEOUS from Bal and Jul, lovely flighty choreography, especially enjoyed the brief change of tone towards the end.”
Strictlylounging adds: “That scoring felt quite mean, so I will definitely vote for her!”
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Emotional night in the ballroom
Don’t think I can remember such a tear-sodden show. The pros, the celebrities, the judges - they were all at it.
Thank goodness for La Voix telling Tess “a P45 and an MBE in one month, you’ve had a helluva autumn”. And then to Claudia “You got storm named after you this weekend, it’s all gone wrong.”
From wiggly cha-chas to wild cherries
TV viewers can now stay on BBC1 for Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel on BBC1 or flip to ITV1 for The 1% Club. At 9pm, new drama Wild Cherry starts on BBC1 or Channel 4 has Hitler’s DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator on C4. Cue songs about singular orbs.
If you fancy a film, there’s The Bourne Supremacy (9pm on 5Star), Bridget Jones’ Diary (9.30pm on BBC3), Django Unchained (10pm on Channel 4) or Infinity Pool (11.35pm on Film4). Hello, wanton sex goddess with a very bad man between her thighs? Oh, Mum, hi.
Hold your calls, it’s the Golden Glitterballs
They’re golden and glittery. They’re spherical and totally imaginary. Here are this week’s lucky gong-getters…
Best dance: Lewis Cope’s tango for me. But for sheer entertainment, it’s hard to argue with that La Voix showstopper.
Worst dance: George’s rumba-that-wasn’t.
Best music choice: Barbra Streisand was a razzle-dazzle way to close the show.
Worst music choice: Even Nikita admitted that Aerosmith “wasn’t a paso song”.
Best outfit: Balvinder’s florals or Katya’s bodycon.
Worst outfit: Nikita’s soft porn binman get-up.
Best VT: A lot of emotional ones but I enjoyed Julian going to Albert Square, Jojo conquering his fear of the woods, and La Voix and her dad.
Worst VT: Amber saying “OK” to literally everything Nikita said.
Best judges’ comment: Craig after Anton’s interminable rambling: “Is there anything you’d like to add to that, Anton?”
Best Claudia quip: Telling Nikita to put a top on.
Updated
Those week eight standings again
Amber Davies tops the leaderboard, with Lewis Cope in second spot. Balvinder Sopal and Vicky Pattison are tied way down at the bottom.
As always, viewer votes help decide who’ll be illuminated by the scarlet spotlight of dance-off doom. George Clarke, La Voix and Karen Carney might be in for an anxious wait.
Credits roll
“Keeeeeep dancing,” chorus Tess and Claud. As everyone starts packing their seaside Speedos in hope, please stay with us for analysis, reaction and a round-up of your comments.
The casting vote goes to…
This week, the deciding vote in the dance-off goes to… Craig! Could the format tweak cause some drama at last? Be nice, wouldn’t it? “Oh goody,” he says drily.
Tonight’s excellent eight routines get recapped on-screen. Which Blackpool-bound pair will get your vote? Which seaside spoilsports definitely don’t?
And the vote is… open!
Online-only, of course. Phonelines are, like, totally over. Prop-heavy Clauditorium mayhem ensues.
Judges’ scores: 7, 8, 9, 9 for a total of 33 points. Mid-table.
Judges’ comments: Shirley says “I loved it and I love you” and they embrace. Anton says “showbiz, baby, a special number”. Craig says messy, haphazard footwork, steps too basic but you’re a storytelling and being amazing character, loved the showbiz element”. Motsi concludes “we need it”. Several times. A seven and three nines? WE NEED IT.
La Voix and Aljaž’s Couple’s Choice
Dance-off survivors La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec bounce back with a razzle-dazzle Couple’s Choice. La Voix is a born performer so this should play to her strengths. They’ve been working with Olivier Award-winning choreographer Bill Deamer on this musical theatre-style number. Starts as Christopher before switching into La Voix. Changes of pace. Not quite keeping it clean enough or nailing the moves. Cane-ography. Aljaž is loving this. Jazzy, old-style entertainment. Flat-footed but bringing the fun. A proper showgirl performance in a joyous showbiz extravaganza.
Song: Don’t Rain On My Parade by Barbra Streisand. From 60s musical Funny Girl, it has soundtracked Strictly quicksteps by both Ashley Roberts and Judy Murray. Guess which was better? Ahem.
Judges’ scores: 9, 10, 9, 9 for a total of 37 points. Second place as it stands.
Judges’ comments: Craig says “you could’ve tried harder, joking, your thumb was up but no tricks, completely in control, you’re a sensation”. Motsi says “I have goosebumps, best male celebrity tango I’ve seen, had it all”. Shirley says “loved the staccato and how it stayed flat but work on your left arm, you’re getting better and better”. Anton concludes “all great, contained and powerful, near-perfect but your arms give me the hump”. Nines and a 10 or two?
Lewis and Katya’s tango
Vicky Pattison delivered a show-stopping tango last week. Can her fellow North-Easterner, actor Lewis Cope, do the same? He’s bringing out his serious side for the first time since his Zorro-themed paso doble in Movie Week. Slightly Matrix styling with Lewis in eyeliner and pro partner Katya Jones in a midnight blue sheer dress. Pose-striking to start, then into close hold. Shifting his weight well, with sharp swivels and biting staccato. Drawing the audience into their story with imperious focus and intensity. Some gapping and footwork wobbles, almost hurried at times, but plenty of passion and fire. He’s the highest scoring celebrity in the competition and this could be another winner. Power-packed.
Song: 12 to 12 by sombr. This summer’s synth-pop hit was widely compared to Tame Impala and sees New York artist Sombr (real name Shane Boose) singing to a love interest, uncertain whether his feelings are being reciprocated.
Judges’ scores: 6, 7, 8, 8 for a total of 29 points. Bottom half but probably safe.
Judges’ comments: Motsi says “thank you for being vulnerable, you’re leaning in and I love that, love the lyrical parts, musicality a problem but full of feeling”. Shirley says “beautiful storytelling, coordination went off a little bit, you delivered the message and did wonderfully”. Anton says “liked it, you’re the loveliest partner in the competition, you lead sensitively”. Craig concludes “technically not great, not a rumba, it belonged in musical theatre but a beautiful story”. Well. A five and three eights? Anyone’s guess.
George and Alexis’ rumba
This was the one song that YouTuber George Clarke wanted to dance to, since it means a lot to family after his sister sang it at their grandfather’s funeral. Full of meaning for him, so he and pro partner Alexis Warr are telling a heartfelt emotional story, rather than a sensual and seductive one. Slightly awkward bench-ography to start, then into a spinning lift. Slinky fluidity and strong partnering skills. The only slow Latin dance can be exposing, especially for celebrity males, but he’s doing a decent job. Rhythmic, romantic and controlled. Perhaps lacking a little earthy hip action and continuous movement. Almost balletic and contempo-waft at times. Lyrical and lovely.
Song: Somewhere Only We Know by Lily Allen. Her cover of Keane’s alt-rock ballad topped the charts in 2013 after appearing in the John Lewis Christmas ad, “The Bear and the Hare”. It became Lily’s third number one after Smile and The Fear.
Judges’ scores: 7, 8, 8, 8 for a total of 31 points. Mid-table. Carlos is weepy about Kaz overcoming her back problems. “I didnt expect this from my guy here,” says Karen sweetly. They created a fake “vegan vs meat” argument to get in the zone. Sound the Linda McCartney klaxon!
Judges’ comments: Anton says “I wanted it softer and more lyrical, it was brilliant but brittle”. Craig says “you dance everything at supersonic speed, it was spiky, need more expression in you’re arms and hands, but I love watching you and adore this partnership”. Motsi says “made it your own, need more reach but an out-of-this-world number”. Shirley concludes “I saw your hard work on your posture which has come along beautifully, be more consistent but boy, it was on the right track”. A mixed bag. Carlos emotional. Sevens and eights?
Karen and Carlos’ American smooth
Former Lioness Karen Carney and her pro partner Carlos Gu are the only couple this year to have scored 10s for two weeks in a row. Can they make it three on the bounce? Table-ography to start, then into some lovely travel around the floor. Lifts, leaps and lovely storytelling. Transitions a little lumpy at times but musicality and clean footwork. Almost tango-like at times. Boldly choreographed, passionately performed and selling it brilliantly for a sportsperson. Tiny mistake at the end, I think, but terrific.
Song: You Don’t Own Me by Saygrace feat G-Eazy. The Australian singer’s Quincy Jones-produced 2015 cover version of the 1963 doo-wop hit which originally came out during the feminist movement. It’s been used in a House of Fraser Christmas advert and appeared on the Suicide Squad soundtrack.
Judges’ scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 for a total of 27 points. Joint bottom at the midway mark. “Drunken sailors? Chicken walks? You’re having us on, mate.”
Judges’ comments: Craig says “needed more retraction, a bit flat-footed and back-weighted but came out and played the character brilliantly”. Motsi says “tiny mistakes but recovered well, standing leg needs work, choreography has gone up a level in difficulty, you’re out sunshine”. Shirley says “weight got too far back in swing sections, use your legs better but very good”. Anton concludes “not your best but not your worst, wonderfully performed”. Sevens, are we saying?
Updated
Vicky and Kai’s jive
Vicky Pattison and Kai Widdrington are flying high after last week’s leaderboard-topping tango. Is she building momentum and timing her run perfectly? Vicky turns 38 tomorrow, so qualifying for Blackpool would be a perfect birthday present. Fast and high-energy with plenty of kicks and flicks. Vicky compared herself to Michael Flatley this week and you can see why as her legs pulse and pump away. Does she have the stamina to keep this high-energy to the end? Lacking a little bounce and retraction, needs to be more on her toes at times. Not keeping it compact enough and some mistakes early on. Misses the rhythm in places. The beat of the drum goes round and round indeed. Happy lindyhoppy birthday!
Song: Sound of the Underground by Girls Aloud. Their 2002 debut single was the winner’s single from talent contest Popstars: The Rivals and became Christmas number one. It’s the second time Vicky has danced to a Cheryl vocal after her Couple’s Choice to her solo debut Fight For This Love in Icons Week.
Updated
Judges’ scores: 8, 9, 9, 9 for a total of 35 points. Big girls pants on, apparently. Very Bridget Jones.
Judges’ comments: Shirley says “much more comfortable, classy and feminine, beautiful footwork, got a bit too forward but goosebump-inducing and fantastic”. Anton says “footwork in harmony, immaculate musicality”. Craig says “needed more float, head in bizarre position during pivots but footwork clean and elegant, loving this partnership”. Motsi concludes “took time, gave us atmosphere, we lived it with you, pure magic”. And no gapping! Eights and nines, do we think?
Alex and Jojo’s waltz
“Fanilows” assemble. Alex Kingston had a wobble last week, struggling with the paso doble, but now she’s safely back in partner Johannes Radebe’s arms. She’s been taking motion sickness tablets for the spins in this woodland waltz. Some jetty-ography to start, then down into a classical waltz. They’ve been working hard on rise and fall, and eradicating that much-maligned gapping. Slow and smooth, regal and relaxed, moving as one. Elegant glide and sweetly romantic mood. Head position a little off at times and seems to lose balance towards the end but lovely. Leaves fall.
Song: Weekend in New England by Barry Manilow. The 1976 sweeping orchestral pop ballad has soundtracked several Strictly waltzes down the years, including those by Mark Wright, Jade Johnson, Rory Bremner and 2004 glitterball winner Jill Halfpenny.
Judges’ scores: 9, 10, 9, 10 for a total of 38 points. Same as last week. That’ll take some beating.
Judges’ comments: Motsi says “drama, presentation and timing, I put my pen down, a few troublesome turns but stunning”. Shirley says “needed more side-stretch but exquisite arms, sold the story, very good”. Anton makes some random noises and says “thrilling to watch, very exciting”. Craig concludes “wanted more shaping but clean, full of tone, fire and purpose, brilliant”. Nines ahoy?
Amber and Nikita’s paso doble
Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin scored their first 10s last week but haven’t topped the leaderboard since week two. Can a paso doble propel them back to the top? Nikita has his pecs out in what looks worrying like leather chaps. Amber said this is the toughest routine she’s learned so far but she’s delivering a powerhouse performance. She emerges from a drama as a sort of dark princess. Intense and dramatic, with skirt-swishing and plenty of resistance in her body. Committed character with strong walks and Spanish lines. Passion lacking but dancing on point and a strong finish. Olé!
Song: Dream On by Aerosmith. Frontman Steven Tyler wrote the 1973 power ballad while he was still in his teens. It was sampled by Eminem for his 2002 hit Sing For The Moment.
Blackpool again. Drink again.
Judges’ scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 for a total of 27 points. Harsh for me. Dance-off danger already, I fear.
Judges’ comments: Anton says “lovely musicality and characterisation, sold it well but a little safe, needed more power”. Craig says “raised shoulders and watch your recovering arm but you always dance with conviction and you’re a beautiful storyteller”. Motsi says “solo parts strong, too careful in hold but shining charisma”. Shirley concludes “neat with your feet, now work on upper half”. Sevens and eights incoming, do we think?
Balvinder and Julian’s American smooth
EastEnders actor Balvinder Sopal and her pro partner Julian Caillon notched their highest score with last week’s Punjabi-spiced Couple’s Choice. Can she carry that confidence into this show-opening ballroom number? She’s bookies’ favourite for elimination yet again, so has nothing to lose and should just let loose. It’s foxtrot style and Bal did the foxtrot five weeks ago, so the footwork should feel familiar. Shonky CGI street scenes to start and some bouquet-ography, then into hold. Playful choreography with side-by-side synchronicity. Travelling nicely around the floor. Classy and elegant with fun flourishes. Gapping and footwork are slight issues but strong lifts, wow factor and a helping of Hollywood glamour. Sassy finish.
Song: My Guy by Mary Wells. The 1964 hit was written and produced by Smokey Robinson. Blue’s Simon Webbe danced a foxtrot to it in 2014 and went on to reach the final.
Goodness gracious, Ed Balls Of Fire!
These old pics and home videos of the pros and judges at Blackpool are cute, though. Well, until Ann Widdecombe comes along.
Blackpool gets the big build-up now with a VT. Drink again!
Our Strictly stars™
Our couples emerge on the sparkly staircase for welcome waves. George Clarke had the industry standard chest-out-for-rumba shirt. Nikita Kuzmin is topless in pleather dungarees. My eyes.
Judges are in the building
Enter the paddle-raising panel of Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke. Shirley’s in a nice frock with flouncy statement sleeves.
They’ve dished out 14 perfect 10s so far this series. Will there be more tonight or will they save them for Blackpool?
Frockwatch
Here’s our two-headed hostly hydra, so let’s do our traditional couture clash. Tess Daly is in a mauve sparkly turtleneck. Claudia Winkleman is in a black, one-shouldered, drop-waisted frock with hair in a chic updo. Claud wins by a mile.
Cue clapalong titles
Which of these smiling pairs will be starved of fish and chips on Blackpool beach?
Aaaaand we’re off!
Roll ye olde scene-setting VT. Blackpool-themed, obv. Drink!
Gulp some rosé to stop the nervous sweating. Listen out for a Celia Imrie parp. We’re about to be go live to Elstree Studios…
Alan Carr’s Picture Slam just wrapping up on BBC1 – a new series of the comedian and Celebrity Traitors winner’s Numberwang-type quiz.
Well, I suppose it beats Amanda Holden’s Inner Ring. Just five minutes to wait now…
On your dance cards tonight
Seven different dance styles on the menu tonight, with American smooths from both Balvinder Sopal and Karen Carney the only doubling-up. We’ll also see a Couple’s Choice number from La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec.
It’s 10 minutes until the glitterball starts spinning…
Eyes down for Strictly bingo
Cross them off as they happen! Take a drink for each! Veer so far off the rails that friends are officially worried! Here’s your 10-point spotter’s checklist for tonight:
Blackpool gets mentioned so much that you begin to hear imaginary seagulls
Couple’s Choice routine gets wildly over-marked because nobody knows how to judge it
A cute cartoon Pudsey bear dances across the screen during a Children In Need plug
Anton says of an American smooth “That’s the sort of number I’d like to dance”
Motsi and Shirley gang up on Craig when he criticises a hand placement or sticky-up finger
George Clarke’s rumba has Tess Daly fanning herself with her cue cards
La Voix gives Craig some lip and his poker face dissolves into laughter
Claudia interrupts a rambling post-dance interview with “Good luck, the scores are in”
Shirley is harsher on Balvinder Sopal’s footwork than she is on the male celebs
Craig wears a kiss-me-quick hat or knotted hankie on his head when the voting lines are opened
A field in form
Half of our remaining eight contestants – namely Amber Davies, Balvinder Sopal, George Clarke and Vicky Pattison – secured their highest score of the series last Saturday.
Can they build on that momentum? Just 20 minutes until we find out…
Hoofing heroes to reprise their greatest hits
News this week four former finalists will return for a spectacular group dance in Blackpool. Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams will return to the ballroom for one night only, joining the pros for a dazzling routine that will see them each revisit one of their most famous Strictly moments.
The Blackpool specials will also feature performances from Lewis Capaldi and Steps. It all sounds like a fitting celebration to mark Tess and Claudia’s farewell trip to the Tower Ballroom. It’s 25 minutes until sparkly showtime….
Who might miss out on a seaside minibreak?
Should Albert Square hang out the “welcome home” banner? Once again, EastEnders actor Balvinder Sopal is the bookies’ odds-on tip for elimination this weekend – as she has been for about a month now – followed by her fellow dance-off survivor La Voix.
Can this resilient duo defy the odds again? Half an hour until we get our first choreographic clues…
The ballroom battle for Blackpool begins
The prestigious Tower Ballroom and the bright lights of the Pleasure Beach beckon - but somebody won’t get a seat on the sparkly bus. Good evening and welcome to the eighth live weekend of Strictly Come Dancing 2025. I’m Michael, your cyber-dance partner for tonight’s live show. I’d love you to watch along with me as our eight remaining pro-celebrity pairings bid to make it to next week’s Blackpool spectacular
Last week, Vicky Pattison topped the leaderboard with a near-perfect 39 points, followed closely behind by Amber Davies with an impressive 38. After drag queen La Voix turned it on for the dance-off, Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey was eliminated.
Our surviving duos have successfully passed the contest’s midway mark and now take to the Elstree Studios dancefloor again, with the annual trip north to the fabled home of ballroom squarely in their sights. As always, tonight’s scores will be combined with the public vote and the bottom two will dance for survival on Sunday night. Will we get a pre-seaside surprise?
It’s showtime at 6.30pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 6pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and ballroom backchat. So start mentally packing your overnight bag with your most spangly disco garb and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As usual, I’d love to hear from you too. You can tweet me @michaelhogan, contact me on Bluesky or Threads @michaelhogan100, email me michael.hogan.freelance@guardian.co.uk and the comments section below is open for hoofing hubbub. I’ll knee-walk down there from time to time to see what you’re all saying and report on your reactions.
It’s week eight, so don’t be late. Nearly time to staaaart seaside qualifying!
