Normal service is resumed next Saturday
Thanks for watching along with me, sparkly Sunday squad. Our 14 surviving pro-celebrity pairs now progress to next weekend’s mercifully non-themed show, before Icons Week in a fortnight’s time
The third live show airs at next Saturday at 6.15pm on BBC1. And it’s a full 15 minutes shorter than last night’s, so we won’t need quite as many protein bars.
Meet you back here to rate the rumbas, slate the sambas and savour the first Argentine tango of the series. In the meantime, it almost goes without saying but not quite: keeeeeeep dancing!
Finally, ABH2018 says: “Goodness, I am surprised Jaime and Carlos are in the dance-off. Curse of mid-table or prostitution theme? I think Chris is toast. Why isn’t Amy ever given good partners - or is she not a great teacher?”
YodaknowsAll says: “You’ve got to feel for Amy. She’s giving it her all and Chris isn’t really moving at all.”
Gardener_Maidhc says: Not really bothered to see Chris leaving. Do feel a bit sorry for Lovely Amy having to leave so early for the 2nd year on the hop. Hopefully she gets featured in the pro dances more now.”
MollyintheFolly adds: “Aww, sad for Amy. Sorry, Chris, but I give it approximately 3.2 days before I’ve entirely forgotten who you are. Don’t feel bad, I can’t remember the names of half the people in my office. It’s me age!”
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notory says: “Melanie Walters was bottom of the scoreboard but sails through. With Aljaž as her dance partner and Gavin & Stacey fans too, she could be there for weeks.”
Gardener_Maidhc says: “Lacey and Vito will be samba-ing next week. I repeat, a Vito samba is incoming. Prepare yourselves.”
Lidoswimmer says: “Like the Emma/Jojo combo for the Dance Debrief, feels right. Also, Emma still has the air and occasional facial expressions of someone not quite believing she’s on the show, which is very endearing.”
Strictlylounging says: “Is Jojo off to do some glamorous work on the railway afterwards in his all orange #everyonehomesafeveryday.”
Gardener_Maidhc says: “This semi-structured talk bit is playing a lot more to Josh’s (Joshy) strengths. Cach getting a Couple’s Choice. Josh makes a comment that has the kernel of ‘isn’t that what he’s done each week anyway’?”
Poppiehen says: “This is where we need Josh. Upstairs talking to the slebs and pros, being spontaneous.”
Lidoswimmer says: “Josh is so much better actually interacting uopstairs and not reading a script. Good chemistry with Jojo as well. Emma on her own on the floor is so much better. She has the presence to be the main anchor already.”
Sebnose adds: “Josh seems more at ease but I’ve known barn owls with more relaxed expressions.”
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On that The Devil Wears Prada number, Somersetlass says: “What a fun routine from the professionals and how great to see Motsi performing, too. I was grinning throughout.”
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Reader verdicts on this year’s first results show
A swift straw poll of your comments. Vicc says: “I have seen some suggestions for what to rename the Clauditorium. My favourite so far is the Johannesphere, which rolls off the tongue very nicely.”
girlpanic says “I rather like the new way of announcing who’s going through, not revealing who is in the dance-off until the end. I bet those left aren’t feeling so happy about it, though!”
Lushattic says: “A stage musical in Movie Week? *shakes head*.”
VelvetinaB adds: “With all this media content they have to provide. it’s surprising they have any time left to learn to dance! When did talking about a programme become more important than the programme?”
Presenters performed well
What did we think of the new presenting trio in their first results show? I was quite impressed.
It’s obviously an easier gig – not live, with fewer moving parts – but they were better, slicker and smoother. It might be sacrilege but perhaps for the first time, I didn’t noticed a vast difference from the Tess-and-Claud era.
From waltzes to Whitney
TV viewers can now stay on BBC1 for Antiques Roadshow (from Amy Dowden’s home town of Caerphilly, coincidentally), flick to Channel 4 for The Great Celebrity Pottery Throw Down or head to U&W for canine contest Wagging Rights.
At 9pm, there’s divorce lawyer drama The Split-Up on BBC1, cop thriller The Blame on ITV1 or dystopian reality affair Apocalypse on Channel 4.
Film-wise, tonight’s picks are Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning (9pm on E4), The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo (9pm on Great TV), The Order (10pm on BBC2) or Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody (10.30pm on BBC1). It’s not right but it’s OK.
And don’t forget that until the next live show, you can get your Strictly fix on spin-off show It Takes Two, weeknights at 6.30pm on BBC2. Tomorrow’s edition sees Chris and Amy on Ellie Taylor’s new-look sofa for a farewell chat. There’s also new backstage show Strictly: Lights Up on iPlayer right now.
The sparkly-handled wooden spoon
Joining the hall of Strictly shame, Chris becomes the fourth male in a row to go home first, following Thomas “Tommy Bosh” Skinner, Olympic swimmer Tom Dean and dear old Les Dennis.
He joins other last-placers such as Edwina Currie, Goldie, Johnny Ball, James Cracknell, Susannah Constantine, Gregg Wallace, Nina Wadia, Quentin Willson, Jacqui Smith and Kaye Adams. Remember them?
They should form some sort of support group. Just make sure they meet up somewhere without a dancefloor, for all our sake’s.
Melanie had a lucky escape
Jaime Winstone won’t be the only celebrity mopping her brow tonight. Melanie Walters also dodged a bullet. Having scored 15 for both her dances, she’s the lowest scorer in the contest but was lifted clear of the bottom two by the public vote. Perhaps she successfully mobilised the Welsh lobby – or stole it off poor Amy. Her touching story about her late mother dancing to Edelweiss doubtless helped too.
Melanie is another who shows potential but looks too nervous and tentative. Pro partner Aljaž Škorjanec needs to get to work. If she doesn’t show improvement, she’ll soon be packing up her omelette pan and heading back to Barry.
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Jaime leaving would have been deeply unjust
What were they even doing in the dance-off? Well, Jaime Winstone and Carlos Gu clearly nearly didn’t garner much viewer support, because they plummeted five places into the bottom two. A shame, since actor Jaime is a likeably effervescent character with the charisma and performance levels to become a decent dancer.
Both her routines so far – a tango and a cha-cha – have been technically flawed and she’s made mistakes, likely as a result of nerves. If Jamie can bounce back with renewed confidence, she could rave on for a while yet. Carlos is the reigning pro champion, of course. It would have been undeserved to lose him so soon as well.
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Luckless Amy deserves better
It’s sad to see Amy Dowden out of the contest so soon. Again. The much-loved Welsh wonder was first out last year with Apprentice bosh-merchant Thomas Skinner. She doubtless thought she’d landed a more promising partner in Chris Appleton, only to suffer the same fate again.
Army must be wondering what she’s done to upset the glitterball gods. When she’s not saddled with the oldest male celebrity (as she was with Brian Conley and Danny John-Jules), she tends to get injured, benched or eliminated unexpectedly early.
That’s even before you consider her battles with breast cancer, chronic Crohn’s disease, sepsis and a broken foot. Yet somehow Amy remains admirably enthusiastic and generous-spirited. Fingers crossed for next year.
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Chris was hair today, gone tomorrow
Something for the weekend, sir? Celebrity hair stylist Chris Appleton fell victim to the double blow of low-scoring dances and low fame factor. In a field lacking star power, he was among the least-known names. That lack of a voting fanbase cost him dearly.
He scored 17 in Movie Week, a small improvement on last Saturday’s 16-point tango, but still seemed tense and tentative. He didn’t dance so much as strike poses and hesitantly walk through the steps. Like several other males in this year’s contest (the likes of Will Best and Shaun Wright-Phillips), one got the impression that Appleton’s ceiling was low and he wouldn’t last long, despite the whole-hearted efforts of pro partner Amy Dowden. He was thoroughly outshone by Jaime Winstone in the dance-off.
Doing a Baywatch-themed cha-cha didn’t help. Among all the Hollywood blockbusters and familiar franchises, it felt out of place. A TV series that spawned a forgettable one-off feature, rather than a proper film. Chris baring his chiselled abs may have briefly distracted Craig Revel Horwood from his leaden footwork and lack of leg action but he finished second from bottom of the combined scoreboard.
The Leicester-born coiffure-wrangler seems like a lovely fellow and a real team player – see last night’s sweetly supportive words to novice host Johannes Radebe – but Chris didn’t really belong in the contest. He’s used to glamming up stars for the spotlight, not stepping into it himself. That lack of performance experience showed.
As he said upon signing up: “I know my way around a salon floor, but the dancefloor is a whole different story.” Going back to the day job, his appointment book will surely now be even fuller.
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Chris and Amy’s last dance
As the eliminated pair take a final twirl around the ballroom to (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life – will they do “that” lift? Nobody puts Amy in the corner – the credits roll and the other couples crowd in to commiserate. Please stay with us for analysis and reaction.
Amy returns the compliment
His pro partner Amy Dowden says: “My heart is broken because I don’t get to dance with Chris anymore but I’ve made a friend for life.” Aww.
Chris washes and goes
In his exit interview, Chris Appleton tells Emma: “It’s been a whirlwind of emotion. It challenged me and took me out of my comfort zone. I’m very proud to have been part of Stridrtly and have made a friend in Amy. I wish I could’ve done better because she deserves to go further.”
Craig makes it unanimous
No split decision to start the series, so the rotating casting vote isn’t needed. Craig Revel Horwood confirms that he would also have saved Jaime and Carlos.
Chris Appleton is eliminated
There we have it. He becomes the first celebrity to depart the 2026 dancefloor. Snipped out of Strictly with a pair of stylist’s scissors.
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Anton Du Beke chooses to save…
Jaime and Carlos, saying “they danced more strongly and with greater assurance”.
Head judge Shirley Ballas chooses to save…
Jaime and Carlos, saying “they had the edge with more power and refinement”.
Motsi Mabuse chooses to save…
Jaime and Carlos, saying “both couples improved but they’re hot contenders”.
Decision time
Over to the panel. They all scored Jaime one point more last night. Have they seen anything to change their minds? I doubt it but stranger things have happened.
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Jaime and Carlos take their turn
It’s a battle of the cha-chas as Jaime Winstone and her pro partner Carlos Gu have another go at their cha cha cha to Oh, Pretty Woman from Pretty Woman. The judges said last night that it was messy, clingy and unbalanced. She made too many mistakes but had sass, style and potential.
It scored 21 points, four more than Chris, so surely Jaime just needs to get through it without any dance dis-ah-sters.
Chris and Amy go first in dance-off
Chris Appleton and Amy Dowden reprise their cha-cha to I’ll Be Ready from Baywatch.
The judges said last night it was disconnected and awkward, needing more flow and impact. Craig cheerfully admitted to being distracted by Chris’ six-pack, saying:“I stopped watching the footwork towards the end”. Ooh, you are awful. But I like you.
It notched 17 points, four fewer than Jaime, so he’ll need to show improvement - and perhaps pray that Jaime makes some glaring boo-boos.
Which means Lawrence Robb and Will Best are safe.
Chris Appleton faces Jaime in the dance-off
Hair stylist to the stars Chris and his pro partner Amy Dowden will dance again for survival. They were last night’s second lowest scorers, second from bottom on the combined leaderboard and haven’t been saved by viewer votes.
Jaime Winstone in dreaded dance-off
Well, that’s a shocker. Jaime and reigning pro champion Carlos Gu are consigned to the dreaded dance-off.
Matilda The Musical is celebrating its 13th year in the West End. Only about 60 years left to beat The Mousetrap.
When I grow up, I want to be Tim Minchin
A special musical performance now from the multi-talented Tim Minchin and the cast of the RSC’s Matilda the Musical. The four young performers who play Matilda Wormwood taking to the Strictly stage to sing Quiet – the song that accompanies the scene where Matilda discovers she can move objects with her mind.
Delta Goodrem will be dancing a salsa next week to Chaka Khan’s Ain’t Nobody. Tune.
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Dame Sarah Storey danced 40km in training last week, apparently. “A whole lot of swivelling,” says Julian Caillon.
Back in Jojo’s Dojo, we hear that Bethany Antonia is dancing an American smooth next week, while Dani Dyer is doing the tango.
The final couple safe (for now) are John Nellis and Katya Jones.
Bethany Antonia is safe
So are all the Ds: Dani Dyer, Dame Sarah Storey and Delta Goodrem.
The dreaded red light returns
Now to find out who is safe and who’s doomed for dance-off.
The pros shift the walls and the set cleverly transforms into a catwalk. Much fashionista fun, darlings. That’s all.
Craig Revel Horwood plays the editor’s right-hand man Nigel. Gird your loins, you’d better werk.
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The dancers wear Prada
Nowa movie-themed group routine from the pros. The Devil Wears Prada number is set to Lady Gaga’s Runway and Shape of a Woman.
It recreates the famous scene of fashion editor Miranda Priestley’s arrival at the Runway magazine office, with judge Motsi Mabuse looking fabulous in red power suit and Anna Wintour-esque sunglasses. She struts, sashays and snaps.
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Graeme Hall admits he couldn’t grow a moustache in time for this week’s Godfather routine so wore a fake one. He and Lauren Oakley will be dancing a jive next week.
Melanie Walters and Aljaž Škorjanec are dancing a Charleston next week. Swivel! Tabby Stoecker and Mark Karmalita will perform the first Argentine tango of the series. Flicky! Kicky!
Cach Mercer says “big up Craig” to the judge he’s won over. He and Maddie Ingoldsby are doing a Couple’s Choice next week. Should be… interesting.
Up in Jojo’s Dojo (now with added Joshy), Vito Coppola reveals that he and Lacey Turner will be dancing a samba next week. She looks mildly terrified.
And that’s it for now, the big teases. The big news there is that Melanie Walters, who was bottom of the combined scoreboard, has been lifted out of danger by viewer votes.
Shaun Wright-Phillips is safely through
So are Lacey Turner, Cach Mercer, Melanie Walters (who looks shocked), Graeme Hall and Tabby Stoecker.
Red light of doom returns
Uh-oh, the red spotlight of risk is fired up for the first time this year. Time for tension-building… long… drawn-out…. pauses… as we find out who’s safe and who’s in danger.
Shirley Ballas just referred to Melanie Walters – at 64, this year’s oldest contestant – as “young lady”. Sweet.
Meanwhile, Craig Revel Horwood pays tribute to Cach Mercer’s Grease samba. Well-wella-wella-oof.
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The judges highlight details from Saturday night, including Graeme Hall’s footwork and Shaun Wright-Phillips-Travolta conquering his shyness.
Dance debrief
Up to the balcony now for the return of the feature formerly known as Len’s Lens in the area formerly known as the Clauditorium. Ah, memories.
I think it was commenter emilyscatnaps who suggested renaming it “Jojo’s Dojo” which I rather like. Although he’s up there with Emma, so we might need to keep workshopping.
Our Strictly stars™
Our 15 pro-celebrity pairings, who will soon be cruelly cut to 14, await their fates in a feast of filmic fancy dress and dodgy wigs. Which will be the unlucky couple?
Movie Week gets a repeat screening
Be kind, rewind. Last night’s live show gets recapped.
Big improvements from Cash Mercer, Dame Sarah Storey and Shaun Wright-Phillips! An Irish dip from John Nellis! Delta Goodrem, Lacey Turner and Graeme Hall the standouts!
Frockwatch
Here come our presentational throuple, so let’s run the rule over their results show garms for the first time. Emma Willis is in black trousers and a white sheer top. Josh Widdicombe in a grey suit, white shirt, no tie. Johannes Radebe bonkers orange suit with asymmetric neck detail.
For the second time this weekend, Emma wins.
And we’re off!
Roll opening titles. One of these grinning couples will soon be saying their weepy goodbyes.
Take your front row cinema seats and place your dance-off wagers. We’re about to go back over to the Elstree Studios ballroom…
Strictly come Dahl-ing
Musical guests tonight are Tim Minchin and the cast of Matilda the Musical. A mere five minutes until the glittery curtain comes up…
New series, new spin-off
Tonight’s show will be followed on iPlayer by the first episode of Strictly: Lights Up, a new behind-the-scenes series hosted by Strictly 2022 contestant Tyler West and comedian Abi Clarke.
It will see them gather reactions from the eliminated couple, plus the judges and studio guests, straight from the Elstree Studios dancefloor. It’s available from the moment the results show credits roll. “Bonus content”, I believe it’s called. How modern.
Fangs a lot
New sitcom The Reluctant Vampire wrapping up on BBC1 now. It’s sort of Ghosts-meets-What We Do In The Shadows, stars the excellent Lenny Rush and is written by the Alan Partridge team, adapted from Eric Morecambe’s children’s book. Strong credentials.
Results show running time tonight is a mercifully snappy 50 minutes – around one-third the length of last night’s live show.
Thank goodness. I’m not sure my eyeballs could take another epic. Ten minutes to sequin o’clock…
Craig gets the casting vote
They’ve kept that slightly pointless format tweak which means head judge Shirley Ballas won’t get the deciding vote each week and the panel will instead take it in turns.
It was announced on last night’s Movie Week live show that tonight the honour goes to Craig Revel Horwood. Plot twist! At least he’s the one most likely to make the right decision.
It’s a mere 15 minutes until the glitterball starts spinning again…
Craig and Motsi strut their stuff with the pros
Tonight’s group number from the Strictly professionals is themed around The Devil Wears Prada – and co-stars a certain two members of the judging panel. Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking.
Twenty minutes until we’re back in the ballroom. That’s all.
Did Shaun salsa his way to safety?
Coming into this weekend, bookmakers’ odds-on tip for the chop was Shaun Wright-Phillips. However, the former footballer showed some serious fighting spirit during his Saturday Night Fever routine with pro partner Alexis Warr. He improved his week one score by a whopping 10 points and moved five places off the foot of the leaderboard. Will that be enough to save him?
The next favourites for elimination were Melanie Walters and Chris Appleton, who remain the bottom two in the combined standings. Both will be feeling the heat tonight. It’s 25 minutes until results showtime…
Who will be first to depart the dancefloor?
The critics’ reviews are in. Ticket takings have been totted up. We’re about to find out who bombed at the Movie Week box office.
Strictly Sundays are back, back, back. Yes, it’s this year’s inaugural results show. Welcome to the first nail-biting knockout from Strictly Come Dancing 2026. I’m Michael, your cyber dance partner. Please watch along with me as this year’s first celebrity gets sent straight to the Blockbuster Video bargain bin.
Hollywood came to Borehamwood last night for a feast of fancy-dressed, film-themed hoofing. Our 15 pro-celebrity pairs now wait to find out their fates. The judges’ scores from weeks one and two have been added together. These will be combined with the results of last night’s public vote and the bottom two couples face the first dreaded dance-off of Strictly’s 24th series.
Melanie Walters was left at the foot of the judges’ joint scoreboard, with Chris Appleton second from bottom. But will voting viewers agree? If not, the likes of Will Best, Dame Sarah Storey or Shaun Wright-Philips could come into choreographic contention. Whose Strictly cameo is about to be left on the cutting room floor?
It’s results showtime at 7.10pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 6.50pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and popcorn-scented snark. So melt some cheese over your lurid orange nachos and see you on the sofa.
As always, 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 back open for ballroom badinage. I’ll romantically twirl down there intermittently to gauge your reaction to the show and relay your comments. So please don’t be shy about sharing your thoughts.
Somebody’s Strictly journey™ is about to be cut cruelly short. Nearly time to staaaaaart eliminating!
Thank you and a glittery goodnight - until tomorrow
That’s not all the foxtrotting and footworking fun this weekend. This very liveblog will return for the first Strictly Sunday of the year.
The results show airs at 7.10pm on Sunday. Please rejoin me then to dissect the first dance-off and (sob) elimination of Strictly 2026. In the meantime, I’m @michaelhogan on Twitter and @michaelhogan100 elsewhere, so please do shoulder-shimmy past and say hi.
Thanks for watching along with me, glitterball gang, and for all your sage contributions. Hopefully see you tomorrow. In the meantime, you know the drill: keeeeeep dancing!
Finally, on Shaun Wright-Phillips, Lidoswimmer says: “Is Shaun wearing Shirl’s tiny shoes?”
diamondcat says: “Well, he needs his bottom tucked under for a start. It’s looking for its own postcode. And this really doesn’t seem to be a dance. Just lots of jumping around and some lifts.”
paperview says: “I do like Alexis. She must have read last week that Shaun was the bookies’ favourite to go and said to herself: ‘Nope. Not on my watch.’”
catalyst36 adds: “Hope Shaun doesn’t go. He’s going to be a classic ‘journey’. I am voting for him.”
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On Lacey Turner, diamondcat says: “This is nice. We’ve got Vito and Lacey sprinting around the floor like a couple of nimble friesians. But it’s fun and probably going to be popular.”
YodaknowsAll adds: “Great coverage of the floor from Lacey in that quickstep and hardly any gapping. Posture needs improving a little bit but well, well done.”
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On Bethany Antonia, EdiSteve says: “The Wicked piece could’ve done with more dancing together. All that faffing at the start, then Nancy vamping while the harness was being fitted.”
Freeflyer55 says: “Lot of skirt-wafting, not much paso.”
Somersetlass adds: “Woohoo! Maybe there wasn’t a huge amount of dance content but the posing, swishing and power were all amazing, and Bethany was in character throughout.”
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On Tabby Stoecker, ReclinedPotato says: “Nice to see one of Mrs Slocombe’s old wigs come out of retirement for that dance.”
Lidoswimmer says: “Tabby has already become one of my favourites for the dancing. She seems lovely and looks fab in pink Also, the new Canadian pro’s chocolately lilt is very soothing.”
Irreverentnurse adds: “The deep voice of the young professional dancer is like a Garibo advert in reverse.”
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On Cach Mercer, ladyglencora says: “I’m warming to Danny Zucchini. That was a hoot.”
paperview says: “Thank goodness for the ringer-ish sleb this year. Cach just moved this up another level. He seemed like he was dancing in a totally different programme to everyone else tonight.”
bigflatfeet adds: “I loved that Grease number. He was fabulous. Honestly, I think this might be the first year that I love all the fellas! It’s week two! And the men aren’t just walking around feeling like spare parts.”
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On Melanie Walters, Phoebe says: “Ah, that was lovely. I would love it to have been me, wearing that gawjus dress, in Aljaz’s arms swirling around the dancefloor.”
ReclinedPotato says: “Edelweiss was the last song that Rodgers and Hammerstein wrote together. Could this be the last dance for our egg-bothering actress?”
ladyglencora adds: “Sadly the gawjus Aljaz von Trapp can’t make up for flappy arms and dodgy footwork.”
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On Will Best, Poppiehen says: “Poor Will. After last week’s pleather horrors, they’ve dressed him in a shirt and Y-fronts.”
Heartticker says: “Strange song for a foxtrot but Dianne made that work somehow. I loved the nods to the film. That was difficult to choreograph to but I thought it was great fun.”
YodaknowsAll says: “Jaime Winston e’s legs were fantastic in that cha cha. Beautifully straight. Upper body was a bit weird and her arms were a bit throwaway.”
Somersetlass adds: “I think Jaime and Carlos could go a long way. Yeah, there were some mistakes, but she’s got the flirtiness and legs for a cha cha cha, and it had real party spirit.”
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On Graeme the Godfather/Dogfather, ladyglencora says: “I adore Lauren. Shades of Argentine tango in that waltz. Loved it.”
ReclinedPotato says: “That Dogfather bloke was the dogs’ wotsits!”
IvanTiger says: “Graeme is still fab. Good posture, timing, elegance, acting. Who’d have thunk it? Excellent!”
whistledownthewind adds: “I found the Dogfather comedy VT almost funny. The booze is kicking in!”
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Heartticker says: “Sarah Storey was a lot better than last week. I thought she might have gone out this week but now I’m not so sure. Not one of my favourite Charlestons but it was entertaining.”
Sebnose adds: “Marvellous! Total commitment to the scary lifts and it needed acting skills, which she was very good at. Very much enjoyed.”
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G1adys says: “I think the judges are being harsh on Lawrence Robb’s posture. That height difference is quite significant. And Anton, you could dance with Jowita because you’re a professional.”
Pancake01 adds: “If Craig doesn’t make a spatula hands-related comment, I’ll eat my (chef’s) hat.”
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YodaknowsAll says: “Chris l seems to have no natural rhythm in his upper body which is a shame. Straighter legs needed but he looked like he was having a blast.”
diamondcat says: “Well, I thought that Chris’ trousers would be coming off a la Bucks Fizz, then some slow motion running carrying a float. Really, I don’t know what Strictly is coming to.”
MikeMoonlight says: “Apparently tonight’s show is so long because this Baywatch routine will be shown in slow motion.”
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Aine183 says: “Delta Goodrem is so elegant. She makes it look great even if she hasn’t completely mastered the technique yet. Also I LOVE her dress.”
ReclinedPotato says: “Really beautiful from The Kelta Quadrant there, made me quite weepy until I caught sight of her underwear (twice!) in that lift.”
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Now the actual dancing. G1adys says: “Felt that Dani Dyer was playing safe but pleased to see music, costume and dance working together (not hard for this choice) which might be rare tonight.”
YodaknowsAll says: “John Nellis is a bit heavy footed in this Couple’s Choice, also a little out of sync in places. Ending was a bit rough and ready. Lifts were great, though.”
ladyglencora says: “A little early for a Couple’s Choice, John. More useful to have that ace up your sleeve for the latter stages of competition.”
Calliecat adds: “Did they really just give the Irish guy an Irish jig? Really!!!!!”
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On the Victorian ghost child’s shoes, Pancake01 says: “Christ on a bike, the tiny shoes have come out! TOO SOON. I thought they were only for Halloween.”
LazyMillennial adds: “Lmao at Craig channelling all of us the second the shoes came out.”
Audreyshandbag says: “You know, we all used to love to b**ch about Tess on this blog but this painful ordeal makes one realise that she wasn’t that bad after all.”
Mutterful adds: “Definite improvement in presenting this week. Emma is as efficient as you would expect and Johannes seems to have found some energy and volume, though he hasn’t yet convinced me that he’s the right person for the job. I have always been against having a comedian (any comedian) in the presenting role but they gave Josh the gig, then instead of allowing him to be a comedian, made him read gags written by committee off the autocue. They need to put their trust in him and let him do the job they employed him to do.”
On the presenter teething troubles, catalyst36 says: I” said it last week and will say it again every week until they listen to me. PUT JOSH ON THE BALCONY. It’s not working with JoJo, kills his personality. Put him back on the floor where he flourishes.”
Lidoswimmer says: “Having thought Josh should be up there last week, JoJo is definitely finding his feet and will keep making it his own. I do think it would be good for him and Josh to take turns up and down for variety.”
whistledownthewind says: “I think JoJo should stay in the formerly named Clauditorium. He’s empathetic, knowledgeable and entertaining up there. All we need is new name.”
Sebnose says: “I am a teensy bit drunk but I think Josh seems more comfortable this week. Well done him. But I repeat: the Shirley stalking Josh shizz is freaky-deaky. Stop it now.”
MikeMoonlight says: “Good to see that Ginger Neil has got into the spirit of Movie Week by portraying the Woody Allen character Zelig, who always just seems to materialise at the back of crowd photos of historic events...”
whistledownthewind adds: “I voted for Graeme, Delta and Richard E Grant.”
Well, it’s an interesting angle. A bold strategy.
Readers’ Movie Week reviews are in
Time for a rapid-fire round-up of your verdicts. whistledownthewind says: “I’m happy to observe that scores so far seem to be on the more realistic side (with some exceptions, Anton). All those 8s and 9s in early weeks really undermined the judging in previous series.”
Emilyscaptnaps says: “I genuinely thought we were joking about Pretty Woman. Are we going to go for the Full Monty of films based on males being grim pervs and have a ‘Weird Science’ dance too?!”
ReclinedPotato says: “Is someone dancing Mona Lisa from the film Mona Lisa next? Would make a perfect trio of ahem, lady of the night themes.”
yorkshirecoast adds: “Sex workers and nuns? It’s like being at a Vicar and Tarts fancy dress party.”
From fab-u-lous to yippee-ki-yay
TV viewers can now stay on BBC1 for gameshow Wisdom Of The Crowd or flip to Channel 5 for Buckingham Palace: A Year in the Life. Later come crime dramas Paris Police 1910 (9.10pm on BBC4) and Marble Hall Murders (9.35pm on BBC1).
If you’re in the market for a film, tonight’s picks are Die Hard 2 (9pm on Film4), Basic Instinct (9pm on Sky Mix), Beverly Hills Cop (9pm on Comedy Central), Three Days of the Condor (9pm on Legend Xtra) or ace Indian thriller Kill (10.50pm on BBC4). Did you kill him, Miss Tramell? *crosses legs*
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Golden Glitterballs: Movie Week Edition
Who needs Oscar statuettes or BAFTA masks when they could win one of our coveted liveblog baubles? Here are this week’s celluloid-style gong-getters…
Best dance: Graeme’s Dogfather waltz for me, just edging out Cach’s samba.
Worst dance: Sorry, Melanie. Would an omelette make it better?
Best music choice: Beauty & The Beast was a lovely opening, setting the tone for a strong night from Team Wunnerful Day Varch.
Worst music choice: Baywatch doesn’t belong in Movie Week and Edelweiss was shrill.
Best outfit: Gaw-jus frocks for Lauren /Oakley and Aleis Warr.
Worst outfit: Will Best was ill-served again. Nipples out last week, no trousers this time. Backless chaps next up?
Best VT: Graeme as the Godfather. Also enjoyed Chros Appleton’s lifeguard dream sequence.
Worst VT: Jowita the rat under Lawrence’s hat. A bit too CBeebies.
Best judges’ comment: Craig’s exasperation at the head judge. “Not the shoes, darling” and “Shirley’s looing daggers at me. She’s from the international Latin and ballroom world, it’s not going to be up her strasse.”
Best Widdicombe witticism: Hmm. He relaxed a bit but the much-improved Jojo and total pro Emma were both better, I’m afraid. C’mon, Joshy, we’re rooting for you.
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Combined scoreboard revealed
So with their two dances combined, Delta Goodrem tops the joint leaderboard, with Lacey Turner and Graeme Hall in second spot.
Shaun Wright-Phillips climbed five places off the bottom after that “salsa”, whuch leaves Melanie Walters way down at the bottom, with Chris Appleton just above. But that could all change with the first public vote helping to decide tomorrow’s dreaded dance-off.
Credits roll
And the casting vote tomorrow goes to… Craig. Sanity will reign at least. “Keeeeeep dancing,” trill our hosting trio, clutched in that endearingly awkward embrace.
The clapperboard comes down and the night’s 15 routines get recapped on-screen. Fancy dress frenzy! More wigs than a Terry Wogan convention!
And voting is… open!
For the first time this year, viewers can now vote. Prop-laden pandemonium erupts on the balcony. Ginger Neil dons a shark head. Because of course he does.
Phew. Long old night, huh?
Judges’ scores: 4, 7 (what?), 7 (what now?), 7 (what the what?) for a total of 25 points. A ten-point lift. Jojo has become rather rowdy on the balcony. Love to see it.
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Judges’ comments: Anton says “we’ll expect this every week now, Alexis spent most of it in the air, unrecognisable”. Craig says “you’re no John Travolta, darling, ploddy, stuck to the floor and no hip action whatsoever, not for me, sorry”. Motsi says “no mistakes, good timing, musicality and tight connection, did well”. Shirley comes out to give him a hug and concludes “that pot-stirrer was great improvement off the charts”.
Shaun and Alexis’ salsa
Former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips was joint bottom of the week one standings and is bookies’ odds-on favourite for the first elimination. Can he climb the scores and save his skin with the first salsa of the series? He needs to let loose, smile and perform with US pro Alexis Warr, not just concentrate on remembering the steps (with his tongue sticking out). Giant glitterball, disco moves and he’s got the groove. And also a sticky-out bum. Wobbly lift to start. He’s still a little flat-footed and edgy-looking but he’s singing along with gusto and giving it some welly. Whisk spin, a knee slide More disco than salsa but most entertaining.
Song: You Should Be Dancing from Saturday Night Fever. The 1976 song that launched the Bee Gees into disco and the group’s only track to top the Billboard dance chart.
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Judges’ scores: 6, 7, 7, 8 for a total of 28 points. One up on last week and joint second on the combined scoreboard.
Judges’ comments: Motsi says “free and fun, you flew, loved it but top half got loose”. Shirley says “no mistakes, get your posture in order but you did exceptionally well”. Anton says “accomplished clean and polished, your level has shot up already”. Craig concludes “quieten your frame and think ahead of hr beat but brilliant, darling”.
Lacey and Vito’s quickstep
EastEnders actor Lacey Turner and Italian pro Vito Coppola finished third on last week’s leaderboard with their cheeky cha-cha. She’s been nursing bandaged feet this week due to infected blisters on her toes. Sounds painful. Now they’re playing Woody and Jessie for their first ballroom number. Vito has been teaching Lacey the head position by comparing it to a dog leaning out of a car window. Woof. Cutesy start, then into hold, skipping across the floor. Charleston flicks and kicks. Some gapping and footwork faltering in places. Lovely choreography and storytelling, jazzy style and a fun finish. It was Vito’s 34th birthday this week, so a high score would be the perfect present.
Song: I Knew It, I Knew You from Toy Story 5. Taylor Swift’s country-pop banger from this summer’s Pixar hit. Swift said she’d wanted to write music for the franchise since watching the first film, aged just five.
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Judges’ scores: 7, 7, 6, 7 for a total of 27 points. One more than lat week. A little undermarked for me.
Judges’ comments: Craig says “lacked Spanish line but it had drama, passion and I loved it”. Motsi says “better solo than in hold but power like a goddess”. Shirley says “theatrical, powerful and viewers will love it but gor me it lacked shaping and twist turns, show me much more quality could be way better”. Anton concludes “loads of drama and woo-hoo for the frock-ography”.
Bethany and Nancy’s paso doble
The sole paso of the night (and only the second this series) comes from actor Bethany Antonia and her pro partner Nancy Xu. They made a strong start last week, finishing fourth on the scoreboard with 26 points and even getting complimented by Craig. Bethany now enters her bad witch era as green-faced Elphaba. Nancy is playing Glinda in a pink bubble dress. Floor projections and laser lights. Dramatic and intense. They’re switching up the lead again. Great arms, swishy skirt-ography, great shapes and synchronisation. Faltered a little in hold but spine-tingling climax as Bethany flies up to the ceiling.
Song: No Good Deed from Wicked: For Good. The song performed by erstwhile guest judge Cynthia Erivo and originally on Broadway by Idina Menzel, expressing Elphaba’s rage over her thwarted efforts to do good.
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Judges’ scores: 7, 7, 7, 7 for a total of 29 points, six more than last week. Mark pays tribute to her hard work.
Judges’ comments: Shirley says “presented beautifully, wanted more roll through the feet, don’t throw the moves away but a huge improvement”. Anton says “strong across the floor, love your leg speed, work on head position and spotting but lovely performance”. Craig says “you got stuck in underarm turns but that was good”. Motsi concludes “another big improvement, don’t be so humble, you are brilliant”.
Tabby and Mark’s American smooth
Winter Olympic gold medallist Tabby Stoecker was compared to reigning champion Karen Carney after her impressive week one jive. A big contrast now in her first ballroom dance with new Canadian pro Mark Karmalita. Tabby will feel at home in this setting because she’s a former circus gymnast. She descends in a hoop. A bit too much faffing and her feet don’t touch the floor for a while but once they do, she’s elegant and effortless. Nice posture as she glides around the floor. Lovely musicality and artistry in her arms. A few footwork fumbles but bagfuls of personality and great lifts.
Song: Rewrite The Stars from The Greatest Showman. The soppy duet performed by Zac Efron’s character and Zendaya in the 2017 film. It was later covered by Anne-Marie and X Factor winner James Arthur.
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Judges’ scores: 7, 7, 7, 8 for a total of 29 points. Nine more than last week. “Ten for the hair alone,” says Jojo.
Judges’ comments: Great reception in the studio. Anton says “I now love the saar-mba, I’ll have that all day long”. Craig says “you’ve completely won me over, created your own samba style, amazing”. Motsi says “clever choreography, extraordinary execution, you move so lightly you’re flying, just work on your hands and finish the lines but you’re a jewel”. Shirley concludes “great shift of weight was an improvement, you get too low and posture got lost, show me a little bit more quality”. Ghost shoes are out again. Motsi tries to steal them. You can’t have my shoes,” says Shirl.
Cach and Maddie’s samba
Love Islander Cach Mercer was told off by the judges last week for too much freestyle and not enough quickstep. A party samba with new pro Maddie Ingoldsby might suit his undoubted dance skills better. He’s Danny, she’s bad girl Sandy and they’re at Rydell carnival. Fast and furious with tricks, great rhythm, fluid hips and plenty of Brazilian bounce. Supple and saucy. A few mistakes but loads of style and fun. Great finish as streamers fall.
Song: We Go Together from Grease. The film-closing song performed by the Pink Ladies and the T-Bird greaser boys. The late Caroline Flack and her partner Pasha Kovalev performed a quickstep to it during the 2014 series.
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Judges’ scores: 3, 4, 4, 4 for a total of 15 points. Same as last week. Dance-off danger? “We choreographed the mistakes in, I’m glad the judges spotted them,” says Aljaž.
Judges’ comments: Shirley says “Miss Elgant, you look too darling, but quite a few mistakes, get your shoulders down, head back and bottom tucked under, get alignment right and soften the knees, you’re actually a lovely dancer”. Anton says “grace and poise but hesitant with lots of whoopsies, stride out for confidence, otherwise elegance personified”. Craig says “I’m on your side, then it all went wrong but I see your potential”. Motsi concludes “magical audience reaction, that counts for something, you have something special and unique so keep going”.
Melanie and Aljaž’s waltz
Gavin & Stacey actor Melanie Walters was joint bottom of the week one scoreboard for her nervous cha-cha but this isn’t a bad dance to bounce back with. She should enjoy getting into character and ballroom boy Aljaž Škorjanec always brings out the best of his partners in the waltz. Weepy VT because Melanie played the song at her mum’s funeral. Solo start. Slow, soft and delicate. The Swansea lass is probably used to dancing on hills and in valleys and this is a vast improvement on last time. Hesitant in places and a little gapping but sweet storytelling, spinning as confetti falls.
Song: Edelweiss from The Sound Of Music. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1969 showtune, named after the white flower found high in the Alps. AJ Odudu and Simon Webbe both performed previous Strictly waltzes to it.
Two sex worker-themed films in a row, note several commenters. Weird Science or Anora next?
Judges’ scores: 5, 5, 5, 6 for a total of 21 points. Same as last week.
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Judges’ comments: Motsi says “sass, style and courage, your eyes light up when you dance, you have potential but too many mistakes”. Shirley says “you’re an amazing dancer, good narrative but balance needs work”. Anton says “I was going to gie you my top mark o the night, loved the lines and leg action, a bit flingy and mistakes but you’re a pocket rocked”. Craig concludes “shoulders up, lost connection and messy at time but there a future for you, darling”.
Jaime and Carlos’ cha cha cha
“Big mistake. Huge!”. Jaime Winstone’s tango was fun but technically flawed last week. The Cuban party dance might be more up her street. An outfit change to open and leaning into character alongside reigning pro champion Carlos Gu. A cheeky, flirty and feline feel, slinky movements with her feet brushing the floor. Great leg and hip action. Lots of solo content, which can be exposing, but Jaime is handling it confidently. Lacks flow at times but loads of fast and fun with style and swagger.
Song: Oh, Pretty Woman from Pretty Woman. Rob Orbison’s 60s chart-topper won a posthumous Grammy Award after being used as a title son for the 1990 romcom starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. Miami rap band 2 Live Crew were later sued for copyright over their parody version about two-timing women.
Judges’ scores: 4, 5, 5, 5 for a total of 19 points, one more than last week. “Ever have that dream where you’re doing Strictly without your trousers on?” says Will.
Judges’ comments: Anton says “great open work but all the energy dropped out of it in hold and went wrong in the end, loved half of it”. Craig says “bottom sticking out, could be more graceful but love you personality”. Motsi says “light, freedom, don’t rush the music but it had life”. Shirley concludes “A-star performer but no trousers meant I could see the flat feet”. And the ghost child’s shoes come out, much to Craig’s exasperation. “I think that’s my size,” says Josh.
Will and Dianne’s foxtrot
Big Brother presenter Will Best had his chest out, distractingly, for last week’s leather-trousered, series-opening samba. Happily he’s put his nipples away for the foxtrot with Australian pro Dianne Buswell – but he is doing it in his tighty-whiteys like Tom Cruise. The number does open with the famous slide, though. Brave solo start, then into hold and gliding elegantly around the floor with decent posture. Footwork flat and could be cleaner. Too much sofa convulsing but lots of fun. Plays air-lamp to finish.
Song: Old Time Rock & Roll from Risky Business. Bob Seger’s raucous, rough-edged rocker from the 1983 high school comedy. It’s been covered by Status Quo, Steve “The Hair” Harrington in Stranger Things and, ahem Alvin and the Chipmunks.
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Judges’ scores: 8, 8, 8, 7 for a total of 31 points. Joint highest score of the series so far and second on the combined board as it stands. Jojo quicksteps around the balcony with the Beast to celebrate.
Judges’ comments: Craig smiles and says “I absolutely loved it”. The audience go nuts. Mosti says “mesmerising, led Lauen well, stayed in character the whole way, long strides, musicality, great job”. Shirley says “technically tested him but executed beautifully”. Anton concludes “highly commended footwork, liked it a lot but you’ve got more, straighten out your wonky frame and you could be one of the best ballroom dancers we’ve ever had”. Sevens, even eights?
Graeme and Lauren’s waltz
Canine expert Graeme Hall was a sunrise package last week, finishing in fifth spot for his cheeky cha-cha. He even made Craig smile. Well, every dog has its day. Now the Dogfather has become the Godfather, channelling his more serious side for this Mafia waltz. Graeme has even grown a moustache for the occasion. Pro partner Lauren Oakley has put in plenty of proper waltz content. A little timing falter and some balance issues in parts but posture, frame and footwork looking OK. Better than the wobbly camerawork anyway. Slow and smooth. Rise and fall. Lovely mood, mystery and storytelling.
Song: The Love Theme from The Godfather. The 1972 instrumental was lyricised as “Speak Softly, Love” and became an easy listening hit for Andy Williams. Slash from Guns N’ Roses also does a mean instrumental guitar versions.
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Judges’ scores: 6, 6, 6, 6 for a total of 24 points – nine more than last week. Has it lifted the Dame out of dance-off danger?
Judges’ comments: Motsi says “biggest improvement of the night, you opened up, neat swivel, got better as it went on”. Shirley says “enjoyed the changes of pace, pleased with it, let yourself go, a job well done”. Anton says “clean as a whistle”. Craig concludes “too tame and careful, lacked wild abandon but parts were gaw-jus”.
Sarah and Julian’s Charleston
The sporting Dame gets the honour of this year’s first Charleston, alongside Australian pro Julian Caillon. Having finished joint bottom last week, she’s now bookie’s second favourite for the first elimination. Fun fact: the wardrobe department initially ordered Sarah’s Mary Poppins brolly online but got their measurements wrong so when it turned up, it was tiny like a cocktail umbrella. Cute opening, then into a high-energy Charleston which Julian has called “a cardio killer”. Slightly flat-footed but staying in sync pretty well in the side-by-side sections. Fast and full of character. The couple’s first lifts are executed well. She’s singing along and it’s kooky fun. Lacking a little bounce and showmanship, while Craig will be scrutinising that swivel. Super or atrocious?
Song: Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (try typing that at speed) from Mary Poppins. The compound word first appeared in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1931 (“it implies all that is grand, great, glorious, splendid, superb or wonderful”) but was popularised by the 1964 musical, which defined it as “something to say when you don’t know what to say”.
Josh flies off on Mary Poppins’ umbrella. Maybe he’s heading to the balcony as many viewers seem to want?
Judges’ scores: 4, 5, 4, 6 for a total of 19 points, one fewer than last time. Lawrence admits he struggled this week but Jowita insists she’s proud of his efforts.
Judges’ comments: Anton says “compliment to the chef, wonderful open work, needs work in hold, arms are twisted but you are magic”. Craig says “posture and frame need work, splayed and spatulistic hands”. Motsi says “charming storytelling but weight too far back”. Shirley concludes “far too much rise and fall, need to lower heel and fly flat but for personality, you’re one of the best”.
Laurence and Jowita’s Viennese waltz
Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb was praised for his “competition standard” arm-shaping while performing this year’s first pao doble last week and was under-marked in my book. Now he’s embracing ballroom for this gimmicky culinary number. He’s the behatted Parisian chef while pocket rocket pro Jowita Przystal makes for a cute rat. Too much messin’ abaht to start but once they start dancing, there’s lots of rotation around the floor. He looks a little stiff and rictus of face. Lacks softness and romance. Not terribly tasty.
Song: Le Festin from Ratatouille. Chanson crooner Camille’s number from the 2007 Pixar movie. She also dubbed the voice of Janeane Garofalo’s character Colette in the film’s French version.
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Judges’ scores: 4, 4, 4, 5 for a total of 17 points, one up on last week. A hug for Jojo because “we’re both new to this”, which is sweet.
Judges’ comments: Craig says “a little bit disconnected, some awkward moments, need a straighter leg and hip action was more of a salsa wiggle but played it cheekily and I stopped watching the footwork towards the end”. Motsi says “I saw breath and a smile, more present but I need impact”. Shirley says “nervous and got out of sync but good vertical line, decent timing but needs flow”. Anton concludes “huge improvement on last week, well done”.
Chris and Amy’s cha cha cha
Celebrity hairdresser Chris Appleton took a bit of judgely pasting for his stiff tango last week finishing fourth from bottom. Now he and pro partner Amy Dowden get their red costumes on for a Baywatch number – a naughty piece of product placement, since Chris is set to appear in the lifeguarding drama’s reboot next year. And, you know, it’s way more of a TV show than a movie. Jet ski to start. Fast feet, straight legs, hip action and Cuban breaks. Much less nervous and stiff this time but too much standing and pose-striking. Six-pack out, which gets a whoop. Better. And a spinning slide to finish.
Song: I’m Always Here from Baywatch. Jimi Jamison’s theme song from the 90s TV series and 2017 movie. Run, Yasmine, run! Don’t hassle the Hoff!
Judges’ scores: 8, 7, 7, 8 for a total of 30 points. Top as it stands. Books, bowls and hats on her head for deportment. Cardio in last week’s samba, toning this time.
Judges’ comments: Motsi says “didn’t disappoint, you have special talent and give feeling but extend more and fill the music”. Shirley says “bumpy in hold, right arm dropped but you’re a force to be reckoned with”. Anton says “completely loved it, I was taken away, exquisite storytelling and lines, nailed it”. Craig concludes “a bump and some gapping but you have the length of bone for this dance, I disagree with the ladies, your arms were gorgeous”.
Delta and Kai’s American smooth
Australian diva Delta Goodrem closed last week’s show with a spectacular samba, soaring to second on the leaderboard. She now makes her first foray into ballroom with pro partner Kai Widdrington. She looks fabulous in any embellished red dress and “has the length of bone for ballroom”, according to Craig. Moody lighting. Hat and piano prop-work, then into hold. Fantastic rhythm and timing, lovely lifts but a few footwork fumbles. Lumpy in places but a soft and gentle ending.
Song: I’ll Never Love Again from A Star Is Born. Lady Gaga’s power ballad from the 2018 film, directed by her co-star Braley Cooper, who sang the final chorus in flashback. Gaga’s emotive performance was shaped by grief after her close childhood friend Sonja Durham died of cancer on the day the climactic scene was shot.
Jojo is giving it full “my darling” and “my baby” on the balcony. Bless that man. John tries to lift him and he yelps “My bow!” He also practices Charleston swivel with Sarah Storey. You wouldn’t get that from Claud.
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Judges’ scores: 4, 5, 7, 7 for a total of 23 points. Overmarked, as Couple’s Choice always is, but only by half the panel.
Judges’ comments: Shirley says “enjoyed it, wobbled at the end but world-class highlights, executed well, really special”. Anton says “terrific number but don;t stand back and admire your work, crack on, we don’t want to see the joins”. Craig says “very heavy-footed, lack spring in your step, needs finesse and the end was an entire tragedy, I’m surprised Katya is still walking”. Motsi concludes “you had easiness last week but here I felt the tension and it took away from your showmanship”.
John and Katya’s Couple’s Choice
Football content creator John Nellis stunned everyone last week with his show-stopping, leaderboard-topping foxtrot. His reward? Getting to do the first Couple’s Choice of the year. Nods to the Edwardian era in their outfits, complete with bloomers, and a suitably Irish theme for the County Down lad. Pro partner Katya Jones is always a clever choreographer and has put together a fun, freestyle jazz-theatre number. Spectacular lifts, spinning and cart-wheeling, but more heavy-footed than last week and a little stop-start.
Song: An Irish Party in Third Class from Titanic. The traditional Gaelic folk tune which soundtracks Jack and Rose’s steerage number in the unsinkable 1998 blockbuster. Draw Katya like one of your French girls, John.
Famous last words but they seem to have sorted out the sound problems so far. Much slicker.
Shirley and Josh do a Titanic-themed intro. He’s the king of the ballroom world!
Judges’ scores: 6, 6, 5, 6 for a total of 23 points – one more than last week. Dani is trying to grow like a flower. But she kills all her flowers, apparently. Dark.
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Judges’ comments: Anton says “lovely quality, attention to intricate detail like the heel turns, just a joy”. Craig says “needed smoother transitions but agree about the lovely heel turns”. Motsi says “told a story elegantly, quite good posture but off-balance in the spins, partner up and move together”. Shirley concludes “I want a stronger centre but you show promise. so live the moment with every step”. Sixes? Five from Craig and seven from Anton?
Dani and Nikita’s foxtrot
Dani Dyer made a solid start last week with her mid-table samba. Now she’s the Belle of the ballroom, with pro partner Nikita Kuzmin furring up and donning horns to play the Beast. Sweet staircase opening. Decent frame, lovely lines, stretching elegantly. Gliding gracefully across the floor. The judges will be looking for clean footwork and heel leads but the romantic mood and fairytale feel is all there. Spinning finish. Disney princess fantasies fulfilled.
Song: Beauty and the Beast from Beauty & The Beast. The theme song to the 1991 Disney film, originally sung by Angela Lansbury. The ballad was later released on single as a duet by Celine Dion and Peabos Bryson. Our own Emma Thompson sang it in the 2017 live-action adaptation.
Danny ’n’ Sandy from Grease! Julie Andrews! John Travolta! A saucy rat! A chef’s hat! Nikita as an actual beast! The dressing-up box has been ransacked.
Our Strictly stars™
The 15 fancy-dressed couples emerge in their Movie Week finery. Cowboys! Lifeguards! Witches!
Judges are ready for their close-up
The paddle-racing panel swan onto our screens: Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas. They cut some rug to Zootropolis too. The absolute animals.
Frockwatch
Here’s our hostly trio, so let’s do a filmic fashion face-off. Emma Willis is in a strapless sparkly snakeskin black dress. Josh Widdicombe in black shirt and pink shirt. Johannes Radebe in green tuxedo with structural bow on the shoulder. Emma wins.
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One for younger viewers but rather fun. Zoo-ooh-ooh.
Strictly zoo dancing
We kick off with a movie-themed group routine from the pros. This Zootropolis number is soundtracked by a medley of Shakira’s Try Everything and Zoo.
Jowita is playing Officer Judy Hopps and Julian is Nick Wilde. Animal fancy-dress all round, like a children’s party with an over-enthusiastic face-painter. Ginger Neil klaxon!
Cue titles!
Still adjusting to the new-look title sequence. Lawrence Robb gives Jowita a piggy back! John Nellis flexes his bicep! Turkey hand from Will Best! Glittery gobble gobble!
And we’re off!
Roll the traditional movie-themed VT. A Top Gun spoof this time. I feel the need. The need for speed.
Salt or sugar your popcorn. Switch your phones to silent. Pop open that “sharing” box of Maltesers. We’re about to go live to Elstree Studios…
Craig was in a meaner than usual mood
He’s statistically the harshest judge, of course, and Craig Revel Horwood’s average paddle-raise last Saturday was just 4.6 points – his lowest week one scoring since 2020.
Something tells me that totals will be higher all round tonight. They usually are in a theme week. It’s just five minutes until the director calls “Action”…
The Celebrity Inner Circle is just finishing up on BBC1. By the magic of prerecorded TV, contestants include Strictly’s very own Will Best. Hope he’s got his dance shoes on and a taxi waiting.
Talk about running time bloat. Tonight’s show clocks in at an epic 155 minutes – five minutes longer than last Saturday’s opening live show. Assume that extra time will be filled with film-themed fluff. It’s like a choreographic Chrisopher Nolan film.
Not long now until the Pearl & Dean tune…
On your dance cards tonight
The 15 Movie Week routines include the first Charleston and Couple’s Choice of the series. Too soon? Quite possibly.
There’s also much more ballroom tonight, with nine traditional numbers to please the purists. A mere 15 minutes until spangly showtime…
Eyes down for Movie Week bingo
Tick them off as you spot them! Take a drink for each! End up tearily texting your ex! Here’s your 10-point spotter’s checklist for Movie Week:
Repeated, verging-on-criminal misuse of the word “iconic”
Awkwardly long pause when presenter on balcony hands back to the studio floor
Celebrity unconvincingly claims they’re paying homage to their all-time favourite film. (Ratatouille? Really?)
Emma Willis inhabits Tess Daly by saying “The crowd are on their feet!”
Anton Du Beke harks back to his own Movie Week routines of yore
Film-themed VT with Craig playing the villain/Shirley as the fairy godmother
Judges have no literally no clue how to mark Couple’s Choice, so dish out random high scores
Celebrity is damned with faint praise as “having fun”, “telling a story” or “embracing the character”
Craig isn’t happy with the ankle swivel during this year’s first Charleston
First theme of the series is flogged to within an inch of its life
Public get to have their say
There was no viewer vote last time out, so this is the first chance for the Strictly audience to back their favourites – and the first couple will be cruelly voted off.
Last Saturday’s judgely scores will be carried over, then combined with tonight’s totals and the public vote. The bottom two will be consigned to this year’s first dreaded dance-off and somebody will be sent home with the sparkly-handled wooden spoon.
Any predictions? Shaun Wright-Phillips is the hot bookies’ tip but Dame Sarah Storey, Melanie Walters and Chris Appleton could also be in the danger zone. Stock up on “concessions”, it’s 25 minutes to screening time…
Does it take three hosts to tango?
Last week saw the live debut of all-new presenting trio Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe – and safe to say it didn’t go entirely smoothly.
There were some satellite delay-style pauses in the handovers. Jojo could barely be heard above the balcony crowd. Poor “Joshy” got a critical mauling in the press, with claims that he looks like a spare part.
It’s by no means a crisis yet. Give them a chance to settle in. But BBC bigwigs will certainly be hoping that things are slicker and snappier tonight.
Buckle up, Barry Norman. Clunk-click, Pauline Kael. It’s less than half an hour until the film cameras start rolling…
Strictly shakes up Movie Week
Lights, camera, ballroom action! Yes, Strictly Come Dancing has surprised us all by shifting Movie Week to the contest’s first full weekend. As if this series hadn’t featured enough changes, they’ve switched up the dancefloor diary too.
Evening all and welcome to the second live show of the series. I’m Michael, your torch-wielding, ice cream-selling usherette for tonight’s show. You are cordially invited to watch along with me as the red carpet is rolled out for the premiere theme week of 2026.
Last week’s inaugural live show saw John Nellis foxtrot to the top and a three-way tie down the bottom. Now, for the first time in Strictly history, all 15 pro-celebrity couples will get their Movie Week close-up because the themed special has been brought forward from its traditional week three slot. They’ll be performing routines inspired by Hollywood films in their bid to avoid this year’s first elimination, so expect a feast of fancy dress and novelty props.
On Sunday night, their scores will be combined with last Saturday’s, plus the first public vote of the series, before the credits roll on one couple’s competition. So whose routine will be a box office blockbuster? And which flop will go straight to the Blu-ray bargain bin?
It’s showtime at 6.15pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 5.45pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and heckles from the back row of the cinema. So stock up on exorbitantly priced pick ’n’ mix and I’ll see you on the front row of the cinema.
As ever, 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 back open for your Movie Week musings. I’ll foxtrot down where from time to time to gauge your reaction and report it up top, so please do share your thoughts.
Saturday night at the movies, anyone? It’s nearly time to staaaaaart cinematic dancing!
