Strictly

Despite other stars taking the top spot on the leaderboard, a lot of Strictly Come Dancing viewers think there’s other one ‘underrated’ star who could win the BBC show

Last night’s October 17 episode of Strictly Come Dancing was Icons Week, where the remaining couples paid tribute to musical icons. Viewers of the BBC show saw two couples top the leaderboard by both scoring 34 points. These were Love Island star Cach Mercer and partner Maddie Ingoldsby, who delivered a dapper Foxtrot that wowed the judges, earning 34 points (8, 9, 8, 9).

Actress Jaime Winstone, who was in the bottom two a few weeks ago, also was in the number one spot with her professional partner Carlos Gu after they performed an energetic, David Bowie-themed Paso Doble, scoring 34 points (8, 9, 8, 9).

Despite these two taking the top spot this week, a lot of Strictly viewers think there’s other one ‘underrated’ star who could snatch the glitterball from them.

Taking to X during the show, one fan wrote: “Tabby’s becoming one of my favourite contestants in this competition, she’s delivering in these dances and got potential winner written all over her.”

During last night’s show, British skeleton racer Tabby Stoecker and her professional partner Mark Karmalita scored a total of 29 points for their Samba.

This placed them in a three-way tie for 5th position on the leaderboard alongside Lacey Turner & Vito Coppola and John Nellis & Katya Jones.

Tabby, 25, has not topped the leaderboard outright in any week yet, but she came very close in Week 3 when she performed her Argentine Tango. She placed joint 2nd on the leaderboard with 31 points, just 2 points behind Delta Goodrem, who was awarded 33 points.

People seemed to agree with the original poster’s prediction, as the post racked up thousands of views and hundreds of likes.

One wrote: “Same, I had no idea who she was before strictly but she quickly became my fave celebrity I absolutely love her!”

While another added: “Tabby and Mark, I am obsessed!”

A third chimed in: “Oh, Tabby is that diva.”

While a fourth added: “Tabby is the underrated star of the series.”

However, not everyone agreed, as one person wrote: “Tabby, Cach, and Delta (if she comes back) are finalist material in my opinion.”

While another added: “Would love to see Tabby win but, I think Lacey (Turner) might beat her.”

Last night’s show saw Delta Goodrem was missing from the episode due to a painful rib injury. Under standard Strictly Come Dancing rules, she was granted a bye through to Week 5.

Doctors advised her to rest and recover, and both Delta and the BBC confirmed the expectation is that she will return to the dance floor next week, provided her recovery goes smoothly.

Her return plans were also confirmed by Delta’s professional dance partner Kai Widdrington when he appeared on Strictly companion show It Takes Two on Friday (October 16).

The Strictly Come Dancing Week 4 Results show is on tonight at 7:10 pm on BBC One and is all available to stream live or on-demand via BBC iPlayer.

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Sarah Storey’s performance didn’t just have the judges talking!

Judge Anton told Britain’s most successful Paralympian that she was better than she thought she was.

Craig told her she looked “fantastic”, but her solo dancing saw her “drop the ball”. Motsi didn’t agree entirely with Craig, saying she was “playing the role”.

As the scores came in, Sarah was given a message from icon Shania Twain herself, leaving them screaming.

Shania shared her hopes to see Sarah and Julian’s Tango at one of her UK shows. As for the scores, they were 5, 5, 5, 6, equalling a total of 21.

Strictly Come Dancing fans have made the same remark about new host Josh Widdicombe after a rocky start to his co-hosting duties on the BBC show and calls for him to be replaced on the programme

Josh Widdicombe is winning support from Strictly Come Dancing viewers after his first appearances as co-host drew a wave of criticism online. Fans have begun rallying behind the comedian, whose arrival on the ballroom show initially divided opinion. The 43-year-old joined Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe in a presenting shake-up at the BBC programme. Together, the trio replaced long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down last year.

A persistent complaint from audiences throughout the initial episodes centred on having two main presenters on the primary dance floor at once feeling superfluous. Numerous viewers also contended that Widdicombe’s comedic credentials would prove far more effective in the upstairs section with the dancers, where impromptu interactions occur naturally, instead of co-hosting the more formal introductions and judges’ commentary.

Social media detractors additionally branded Josh‘s initial outings on the show as “wooden”, “awkward”, or “out of his depth” for a rapid-fire live ballroom programme, with certain audiences believing his approach didn’t instantly gel with the conventional Strictly ambience.

Nevertheless, opinion seems to be changing, with an increasing proportion of audiences embracing Josh after last weekend’s show.

Reflecting on his performance on X following last Saturday’s October 10 episode, one viewer wrote: “I might be the only one but I actually like josh a host.”

Another agreed: “I really like him too!” A third concurred: “I think he’s brilliant,” while someone else added: “I’m enjoying these presenters, it’s a fun vibe.”

As fourth remarked: “I really enjoyed tonight. I think Josh is so natural and I found him genuinely funny tonight.”

The support will come as a welcome boost for Josh, following widespread calls from BBC viewers to have him removed or replaced.

Many argued that Emma, 50, is more than capable of hosting the main floor on her own, with some dismissing Widdicombe’s presence alongside her as unnecessary.

Neither the BBC nor the show’s producers have signalled any plans to replace Widdicombe. Production staff and fellow cast members, including the professional dancers, have publicly rallied behind the presenting trio, emphasising that new line-ups need a brief period to find their feet and pointing to the chemistry already building behind the scenes.

Widdicombe himself also acknowledged the early reaction, noting that viewers understandably have strong feelings whenever a long-running flagship show undergoes significant changes.

Strictly Come Dancing airs next on Saturday 17 October 2026 at 6:15pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

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Good Morning Britain’s Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh were quick to congratulate one Strictly star who shared some exciting baby news this week.

Strictly’s Will Best has become a dad for the first time.

On Friday’s instalment of Good Morning Britain, Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh were speaking about the latest showbiz news with Rishi Davda. During the round-up, which included a discussion about the most recent star banished on Celebrity Traitors, they touched on the news of Will Best becoming a dad.

Rishi told the ITV stars: “There’s the pitter-patter of brand new little dancing feet in the Strictly family. Big Brother host Will Best has announced he’s become a dad for the first time, welcoming a baby boy with his fiancée, Tobi Rose.

“The couple have named their little bundle of joy Sonny. Will shared some adorable snaps from the hospital, saying they’re feeling ‘very lucky’ and, of course, very tired. With Strictly’s Icons Week coming up tomorrow night, Will’s got a very little special supporter cheering him on from home.”

The programme then played a clip from Will’s socials where he was seen holding his newborn in the hospital. He told his followers he had got a “cool new thing today”, and he gave a glimpse at his newly born son.

When the clip ended, Ranvir called it “so lovely” as Rishi highlighted how small the baby was. Ranvir added, “You know what’s funny, though? Will Best will go, ‘Gosh, you know what love, I’m so tired’. She’ll be like, ‘Err, I’ve just given birth to a baby?’. You know what I mean?”

As Kate suggested, Will could get out of the night feeds, Ranvir stated he wouldn’t want to, as she added: “Congratulations, Will and Tobi”.

Will took to Instagram to announce the news himself on October 15 as he shared a selection of adorable images introducing Sonny to the world.

He captioned the post: “Well, who do we have here then?! Welcome to the world, Sonny Best, you little smasher. @tobiroseofficial, you’re a miracle, and I love you so much. A couple of tired new parents (see last slide), but oh my goodness, aren’t we lucky xxx”

It wasn’t long before people commented on the announcement, with one person saying: “Oh Will! He’s perfect! Huge huge congrats to you and Tobi!” Another wrote: “Huge congrats to you both!! Welcome to the world, Sonny!”

Currently, Will is one of the 13 remaining celebrities taking part in Strictly Come Dancing. He’s been matched with professional dancer Dianne Buswell, with the pair expected to perform an Elton John-inspired routine on Saturday night for Icons Week.

Good Morning Britain continues weekdays on ITV from 6am. Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturday October 17 on BBC One from 6:15pm.

I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! will be back on screens from November 2026 and, as always, several huge names from the world of showbiz have been rumoured to be entering the jungle

It’s that time of year again when, in the build-up to Christmas, Ant and Dec’s reality TV juggernaut I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! dominates the nightly schedules.

From November, the Geordie duo will come live from Australia with a fresh batch of stars braving all that the outback has to offer in a bid to become the latest King or Queen of the Jungle. Over the years, the programme has bolstered the careers of TV favourites like ex-Atomic Kitten singer Kerry Katona, Geordie Shore’s Vicky Pattison and former X Factor star Stacey Solomon.

Others to have worn the crown include Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt, footballer Harry Redknapp and, last year, YouTuber Angryginge ended on top. There is almost always a soap star in the camp too, with Coronation Street legends like Beverley Callard and Sue Cleaver both having taken part.

Last year, Emmerdale star Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, just missed out on a place in the final. As the nation prepares for the 2026 series, The Mirror takes a look at the stars who could be heading into the jungle this time around…

Wayne Rooney

Two years ago Wayne’s wife Coleen entered the jungle, which came on the back of her infamous Wagatha Christie trial against Rebekah Vardy and saw her bag what was reported to be one of the highest paycheques in the history of the show,

Now the football legend himself could be about to sign up for I’m A Celeb. It was recently claimed that bosses had been in “negotiations with him for some time,” but on a recent appearance on This Morning, he simply said fans would “have to wait and see.”

In other words: he did not deny it!

AJ Odudu

AJ is currently fronting Big Brother with Will Best but, like her co-host, currently competing on Strictly Come Dancing, she could also be about to become a contestant on one of the nation’s biggest reality shows.

A source said: “She’s had early conversations about taking part and has made it clear she can absolutely make the dates they need her to.”

Jesy Nelson

Best known as part of Little Mix, Jesy, 35, last year gave birth to their twin daughters Ocean and Story. both born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) type 1.

She successfully lobbied the government and joined forces with the Mirror to campaign to have all newborns tested for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) when her twin girls were diagnosed too late after irreversible nerve damage.

Speaking to The Sun, a source said: “Continuing to raise awareness around SMA for her girls is something Jesy is very keen to do, and she knows she can use a platform like I’m A Celebrity to reach millions.”

Ade Adepitan

Paralympian Ade, 53, could be the first star in a wheelchair to enter the jungle. A couple of months ago, it was reported that he could be about to head into the jungle, with show bosses working to ensure the camp is adapted to accommodate him.

Nadiya Bychkova

Along with Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, and Michelle Tsiakkas, Nadyia fell victim to the so-called Strictly Come Dancing bloodbath last year after serving as a professional for a number of series.

It was said at the time that TV offers had been “coming in thick and fast” for the star, and she had been “in talks” with show bosses for a turn in the I’m A Celeb jungle.

Olivia Attwood

Olivia Attwood has enjoyed quite the TV career since she shot to fame on Love Island in 2017. Over the last few years, she has become a Loose Women panellist and fronted a number of investigative documentaries for ITV2.

She first entered the jungle in 2022 but had to withdraw on medical grounds after just 24 hours. She has previously said she would be open to the idea of a return if she could fit it into her pack schedule.

Su-Elise Nash

Su-Elise could be about to become the second member of Mis-Teeq to enter the jungle, after her bandmate Sabrina Washington competed in 2009 and has apparently been in early talks with I’m A Celeb bosses, especially after the Scandalous hitmakers reunited at Capital Summertime Ball.

Ricky Wilson

Ricky Wilson is known for huge hits like Ruby and I Predict a Riot as part of the Kaiser Chiefs. The Sun previously reported that he had “always politely declined” the jungle before, but could now have changed his mind.

Ben Stokes

Legendary cricketer Ben announced his retirement from the sport earlier this year, and could just be about to head into the I’m A Celeb jungle a matter of months later. Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: “Ben Stokes could soon be swapping cricket for crickets, if the latest odds are anything to go by.”

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Amy Dowden has teased her comeback to Strictly Come Dancing after it was confirmed she would be replacing injured Delta Goodrem, who is unable to dance this week

Amy Dowden has teased her comeback to Strictly Come Dancing as she’s set to replace injured Delta Goodrem.

Singer Delta has been forced to miss this year’s Icons Week after breaking her rib. She has been forced to pull out of the show this week and will get a bye to the following week as per the rules.

It has been confirmed that Amy will dance with Kai. Vogue Williams said on Lorraine today: “It’s good to see her back, but she’s going to be dancing with Kai, and supposedly to Dolly Parton’s Jolene. I mean, that’s going to be so good.”

Now, footage has emerged of Amy – who was first out the competition with Chris Appleton – reacting to the group dance. “I really think this Icon’s Week is going to be phenomenal,” she said as the group prepared to dance to a Madonna number.

Today, Delta shared an update on her own health. Taking to social media, she wrote: “Just wanted to come on here and say a big Thank you to everyone who has sent messages and wrote lovely comments the last couple of days, I see them all.

“Not the start to the week I’d hoped for but your support has meant the world. Also special big thank you to my amazing dance partner @kaiwidd who I will miss dancing with this weekend but I am so beyond grateful for his guidance and friendship through it all.. as well as the wonderful Strictly team!!”

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Delta had previously said she was “absolutely gutted” to be out the show for the week, and hoped she’d be back the following week. She told fans: “I’ve been loving every second of this experience, so having to sit this one out is heartbreaking – especially after the high of Saturday night.

“I cannot tell you how much I love being a part of this magical show. I’m going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully I’ll be back on that dancefloor very soon. Thank you so much to everyone for all the love and support. It’s so appreciated. I’ll be cheering everyone on from the sidelines this week!”

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BBC sitcom Daddy Issues will come to an end after the third series has aired but not before a star-studded lineup of guest stars has joined the cast for its final outing

Daddy Issues will come to an end after the third and final series has aired, the broadcaster has confirmed. The BBC Three sitcom stars Aimee Lou Wood as Gemma and David Morrissey as Malcolm, following a pregnant party girl who moves into a flat share with her recently-divorced father.

The first series aired in August 2024, and a follow-up series was broadcast in August the following years but now the third run of episodes, which is currently being filmed in Stockport, will be its last.

But the programme, which is Danielle Ward and co-written with David Reed has confirmed a string of guest stars for its final outing. Men Behaving Badly star Neil Morrissey will be amongst those joining the cast, taking on the role of as Malcolm’s new friend Ellis.

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Shobna Gulati, best known as Sunita Alahan in Coronation Street and Anita in dinnerladies, will play new neighbour Odette whilst former Peep Show star Sophie Winkleman will play campsite owner Mary.

Sarah Hadland, best known for her role as Stevie Sutton in Miranda and for her Strictly Come Dancing stint, will be back as Rita, joining fellow returning cast members David Fynn as Derek, Taj Atwal as Cherry and Celebrity Traitors star Sharon Rooney as Catherine.

The new run of six episodes will focus on Gemma’s newfound set of calamities as she tries to settle into her new promotion at the salon whilst daughter Sadie thrives at nursery. Chaos ensues when the flat she still shares with her dad floods, and a new romance leaves her stuck in a web of lies.

Over the last few years, actress Aimee, who the BAFTA Television Award for Best Female Comedy Performance after making her screen debut in Netflix hit Sex Education, has enjoyed global success with US comedy drama The White Lotus.

Through her role as Chelsea, she earned Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Aimee has also hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live UK, starred as Sally Bowles in the West End production of Cabaret and is due to appear in a string of Hollywood films including The Beatles, Anxious People, and The Idiots.

Speaking about the series coming back, Aimee shared nothing but excitement as she expressed her joy at being part of the comedy series.

She said: “I’m so happy to be back with David and the brilliant Daddy Issues cast for one final time. Gemma and Malcolm are one of the funniest and sweetest comedy double acts on TV, and I’ve loved being a part of it.”

Meanwhile, David Morrissey added: “I love doing Daddy Issues so much, such a great cast and crew! So I’m delighted to be coming back to have more adventures with Gemma, Malcolm and the gang!”

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Delta Goodrem has updated fans about her injury from her sick bed after being forced to skip this week’s Strictly Come Dancing after breaking her rib.

Delta Goodrem has spoken out after being forced to skip this week’s Strictly Come Dancing.

The singer has been forced to bow out of this upcoming Icons Week on the BBC show after falling ill. She has broken her rib but is hoping to recover in time for next week and – following her doctor’s order – has been getting rest at home.

Taking to social media, she wrote: “Just wanted to come on here and say a big Thank you to everyone who has sent messages and wrote lovely comments the last couple of days, I see them all.

“Not the start to the week I’d hoped for but your support has meant the world. Also special big thank you to my amazing dance partner @kaiwidd who I will miss dancing with this weekend but I am so beyond grateful for his guidance and friendship through it all.. as well as the wonderful Strictly team!!”

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She added: “Resting and recovering at home and will be cheering everyone on from my couch on Saturday night xx.” Delta had previously said she was “absolutely gutted” to be out the show for the week, and hoped she’d be back the following week.

It was revealed today that Delta’s planned dance to Dolly Parton’s Jolene with Kai Widdrington will be performed instead by Amy Dowden.

A spokesperson for the show had said: “Due to injury, Delta Goodrem has been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, will not dance on this weekend’s Strictly Come Dancing.

“In line with the rules of the show, Delta and Kai will receive a bye through to next week when it is hoped they will be able to dance again. We wish Delta the very best as she continues her recovery.”

Delta added: “I’ve been loving every second of this experience, so having to sit this one out is heartbreaking – especially after the high of Saturday night.

“I cannot tell you how much I love being a part of this magical show. I’m going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully I’ll be back on that dancefloor very soon. Thank you so much to everyone for all the love and support. It’s so appreciated. I’ll be cheering everyone on from the sidelines this week!”

Sources revealed that Delta’s rib injury “deteriorated” and she was “in absolute agony” performing. She was later rushed to hospital to undergo tests but is now resting at home.

A source said: “Delta has been pushing herself as far as possible to impress Strictly viewers. A small injury at the start of last week has quickly deteriorated. On Saturday night, despite putting on a brave face and smiling, she was in absolute agony.

“Filming didn’t wrap until late Saturday night and she was exhausted. The plan was to go home and get some rest but she could hardly sleep. On Sunday morning she was raced to A&E and then spent most of Monday also at the hospital.”

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Strcitly Come Dancing’s second couple have been eliminated following week three’s close leaderboard, as two of the BBC dance competition’s celebrities battled it out in a dance off

Gavin & Stacey star Melanie Walters was the second celebrity eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing, after losing a dance-off against footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips.

64-year-old Melanie, who played Gwen West on the hit sitcom, was second from bottom on the leaderboard after she and pro dancer Aljaz Skorjanec received only 17 points for her Charleston to Gina G’s Ooh Ah… Just a Little Bit. She was only one slot above Shaun and Alexis Warr, who got 15 points for his Quickstep to I’m A Believer by the Monkees.

Both danced the same routines for the dance off, leaving the judges split on who to send home. Craig Revel Horwood and Shirley Ballas both thought Shaun had performed better, but Motsi Mabuse voted to keep Melanie. Anton du Beke had been given the deciding vote and chose to keep Shaun.

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Craig said: “Due to enthusiasm and technical ability, I would like to save Shaun and Alexis.” Motsi went on to say that she was saving Melanie, while Anton added: “I thought this was a super dance-off, and both couples should be really pleased with themselves, because they both performed very, very well. I was looking for somebody to have an uplift in their performance from Saturday night, and one couple did that for me. A couple I thought, uh, that did do that, and I’d like to save would be Shaun and Alexis.”

After being voted off, Melanie said: “To tell you the truth, no word of a lie, I thought I was going to be out last week, so I’ve had an extra week with this beautiful soul^.”

Fans had expected Melanie and Shaun to be in the dance off after both were at the bottom of the leaderboard, especially given that the top dancer of the night, Delta Goodrem, had scored 33, earning more than double what Shaun did. But despite the difference in points, the leaderboard was condensed because many couples shared the same score. As such, Shaun was only ninth from the top, rather than 14th.

Still, many viewers were heartbroken to see Melanie go. One said: “Firstly, I feel terrible for Melanie because she’s such a lovely lady and I love her partnership with Aljaz. She warms my heart every time I watch her dance, and she’s exactly what the show is all about. Unfortunately, this wasn’t a good Charleston from Melanie and Aljaz, which is a shame as I’ve been rooting for her since the start of the competition.”

Another said: “I understand the result, but I wish that couple had one more week.” And a third added that they thought Shaun wouldn’t be far behind: “Shaun and Melanie were of a similar level dance wise imo so not a controversial dumping, I find Shaun more entertaining so happy enough for him to have another week but I suspect he’ll be gone next week unless the judges massively overscore him ala his salsa last week”.

Last week saw the first elimination, with Chris Appleton and Amy Dowden going home. Celebrity stylist Chris got emotional after the decision was made, as did Amy.

He said, post-emlimination: “I think it’s been such a whirlwind of emotion. I’m 43 and I got good at doing what I did – which is hair. To come and do something like this, I felt so out of my comfort zone and saw myself in a way I never saw myself, and it challenged me in ways I never knew I could be challenged.

“I am very grateful for everyone who has been involved. It’s been so amazing to be part of something that I grew up watching and got to be a part of it.

“The most important thing I think I will take from this show is having a friend in Amy because I genuinely love her and I am so grateful I met someone who has so much heart and passion. I only wish I could have done better for her because she deserves to go further in the competition, but we did put everything into it.”

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A quick recap of tonight’s dances:

Lacey danced a samba and the judges thought it was a strong dance but she needed to be a bit more out there. She scored 26.

Will danced a waltz. the judges thought he’d improved. As such, he cracked the mid-20s and went away with 25 from the panel.

Shaun went next, with a brief cameo from dad Ian Wright in the training video. Shaun did a quickstep that Craig said was “everything a quickstep shouldn’t be”. He scored the lowest of the night with 15.

Cach briefly held the top of the leaderboard after his Couple’s Choice. The judges, who gave him 31, said it was a joy to watch.

Jaime was next with a Viennese waltz. The judges felt she could have been better, but was still dancing nicely. They gave her 28. No one was prouder than her dad Ray Winstone, who left a video message.

Melanie’s charleston featured a cameo from Neil Jones. The judges were impressed with her personality, but less so with the dancing. She got 17.

Sarah used the school run to feul her paso doble anger and the judges were split on whether they enjoyed it or not. They gave her 20.

Delta soared to the top of the leaderboard with a salsa that scored 33, as she earned the first 9 of the series.

Lawrence failed to impress with his rumba, which only got 20, but did get a 5 from Craig, which Jowita was happy with.

Dani’s tango showed improvement and the judges rewarded her with 27.

Graeme’s jive brought a tear to Craig’s eye, as he reminde the judge of the late Len Goodman. he earned a 25.

John’s first latin number was a cha cha cha and failed to reach the heights of his week one foxtrot. He walked away with 20.

Bethany was next up with an American Smooth that Shirley thought was “extremely impressive”. She got 27.

And Tabby was last with an Argentine tango that fans thought should have topped the leaderboard. But she came in joint second with 31.

Oh, Strictly. Home of the both the most bizarre and glorious dances known to man. Over the years we’ve seen some incredible routines – ones that brought a tear to the eye, ones that made us double over with laughter, and ones that made our jaws drop.

Many have been watched again and again online. Here are six that broke the internet:

Faye Tozer and Giovanni Pernice’s Charleston

This charleston, choreographed the The Lonely Goatherd, is amongst the most iconic, inventive, and technically brilliant performances the programme has ever witnessed. Bruno hailed it a “theatrical masterpiece” and urged them to “take it to Broadway”. Darcey Bussell emphasised how remarkable it was that a specific movement had been crafted for every single beat of the music.

Lewis Cope and Katya Jones’ Couple’s Choice

Lewis and Katya’s Couple’s Choice to a jazz version of Radiohead’s Creep during Series 23 proved to be one of the defining, standout moments of that series. The performance moved many viewers and judges to tears, with commentators and former professionals hailing it as one of the most unforgettable Couple’s Choice routines in Strictly history.

Danny Mac and Oti Mabuse’s Samba

Who can forget the first samba to earn a 40 on Strictly? Oti crafted professional-level choreography, and Danny delivered fluid hip isolations and relentless energy that matched her step-for-step.

Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice’s Couple’s Choice

Their Couple’s Choice routine is widely regarded as one of the most powerful, moving, and culturally significant moments in British television history. Performed in Week 8 to “Symphony” by Clean Bandit ft. Zara Larsson, the contemporary routine was dedicated to the Deaf community.

At the midpoint of the routine, as the music swelled to its peak, the sound cut out entirely, leaving a silence lasting roughly 20 seconds while Rose and Giovanni continued dancing in perfect unison.

Bill Bailey and Oti Mabuse’s Couple’s Choice

Bill, a 55-year-old actor and comedian initially regarded as the “novelty” or wildcard contestant of the series, astonished everyone with his remarkable sense of rhythm, musicality, and dedication. The performance immediately went viral on social media and established Bill as a genuine contender for the series title.

Aston Merrygold and Janette Manrar’s Salsa

The choreography showcased numerous breathtaking overhead lifts and spins, capitalising fully on Janette’s mastery of Latin theatrical work. Their salsa proved hugely popular with audiences and achieved an impressive score, though it later became a focal point of debate within the series, as only three weeks later, Aston and Janette were knocked out.

STRICTLY star Aston Merrygold has shared an emotional tribute following the death of his beloved mother-in-law Carole.

The JLS singer, 38, thanked wife Sarah’s mum for welcoming him into her family and being a devoted grandmother to their three children.

Sharing his heartbreak on Instagram, Aston wrote: “I still can’t believe this but thank you.”

He remembered meeting Carole for the first time, thanking her “for accepting me into your family with open arms and an amazing smile”.

Aston also praised her “for being the most loving thoughtful and HAPPY nanny to Grayson Macaulay & Riley”.

In the moving post, the singer recalled Carole telling him how much she wanted him to marry her daughter.

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He wrote: “You telling me at Sarah’s 30th after a few Tia Marias you can’t wait for me to marry your daughter (I did sh*t myself abit)”.

Aston also remembered her helping him organise a move with now wife, dancer Sarah Lou, and giving him her blessing ahead of their marriage.

Among his most treasured memories was a cuddle with Carole shortly before eldest son Grayson was born.

The sweet post also paid tribute to the bond she shared with her grandchildren, saying: “We all absolutely adore you and we always will”.

The heartbroken star said journeys to see the family would now feel different without her.

“It wont ever be the same going over that bridge but every time i do i’ll be looking out for the little rainbow and also give a wave to Nanny’s house,” he wrote.

He ended his tribute: “Until we get to have Nanny’s biscuits and a tea again..

“The mother of my bride, Our super Nanny, we love you and will always miss you.. Thank you Razzle”.

Family has long been at the heart of Aston’s life, with the singer sharing sons Grayson, eight, and Macaulay, six, and daughter Riley, two, with Sarah Lou.

And eldest son Grayson is already showing signs of following in his famous dad’s footsteps.

In August, the tween joined Aston on stage at Colchester Castle Park to sing Jessie J’s Price Tag.

The proud singer danced alongside his son before lifting him onto his shoulders, later commenting on a clip: “My star boy.”

Aston previously described his sons as “mini showmen”, revealing they had picked up their love of performing from watching their parents sing and dance at home.

Speaking to PA, he previously said: “We haven’t pushed them in any way to do it.”

Chris Appleton became very emotional and burst into tears as he addressed his early exit from Strictly Come Dancing during an apperance on Monday’s It Takes Two

Chris Appleton broke down in tears as he addressed his early exit from Strictly Come Dancing.

The celebrity hairdresser,43, who is best known for working with megastars like Kim Kardashian, Ariana Grande, and Jennifer Lopez, had been taking part in the BBC Saturday night favourite with professional partner Amy Dowden, but the pair did not make it past the Movie Week without being sent home.

During an appearance on Monday’s It Takes Two with host Ellie Taylor, Chris and Amy were shown a selection of his best bits from the show and the star quickly became emotional. Through tears, he said: “Why did you have to show that? Oh my God, it’s just been a phenomenal experience.

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“I said to my kids…I can’t even talk…just challenge yourself and do it anyway. I’d literally go out there shaking and there’s times I didn’t know if I could do it but I did it and I would just look at Amy and see her smiling and knew she was with me.

“It says so much about the show, all of the cast and the people behind the scenes who don’t get a mention. You do need that because it’s such a phenomenal one and if you’re lucky enough to do it, jump at it.”

Elsewhere in the emotional interview, Amy paid tribute to her dance partner and said that she was sure that there would have been “so much more” to come from him had they not been voted off.

She said: “From the first day to dancing on Saturday night, he grew and grew and grew [in confidence] and I’m just gutted that we didn’t get the chance to continue. I honestly think there was so much more to come.”

In the dance off Chris and Amy performed their Cha Cha to I’ll Be Ready from Baywatch, before actress Jaime Winstone and Carlos Gu performed their Cha Cha to Oh, Pretty Woman from Pretty Woman.

The judges voted unanimously to save Jaime meaning she will be back next weekend. Chris had said earlier in the weekend he didn’t want to let his partner Amy down. He said: “I am really trying but also really enjoying it.” But his cha cha managed just 17 points from the judges and in week one he got just 15, amongst the lowest scores in the competition.

After his elimination, Chris said: “I think it’s been such a whirlwind of emotion. I’m 43 and I got good at doing what I did – which is hair. To come and do something like this, I felt so out of my comfort zone and saw myself in a way I never saw myself, and it challenged me in ways I never knew I could be challenged.

“I am very grateful for everyone who has been involved. It’s been so amazing to be part of something that I grew up watching and got to be a part of it.

“The most important thing I think I will take from this show is having a friend in Amy because I genuinely love her and I am so grateful I met someone who has so much heart and passion.

“I only wish I could have done better for her because she deserves to go further in the competition, but we did put everything into it.”

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Strictly Come Dancing viewers spotted a switch-up with the new presenters and made a plea with producers ahead of next week’s show

Strictly viewers made a plea to the big bosses after noticing a presenter switch-up for the first results show. Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe have been heavily scrutinised in their first few appearances since taking the baton from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.

But after Emma and Johannes were paired together for the start of Sunday’s show, fans pleaded for it to stay that way. The pair discussed Saturday’s show with the judges and viewers took to social media to share their thoughts.

One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, said: “JoJo and Emma finally presenting together. Now can we have them downstairs on the main show please.”

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Another added: “Emma Willis & Johannes Radebe are the only presenters the show needs. A respected individual with years of presenting on her CV & a fantastic dancer with charisma & enthusiasm flowing out of his pores #Strictly”

And a third said: “This is showing that it should be just Emma and Johannes they’ve had more Chemistry in a few minutes then two weeks of Josh. Emma upstairs and Johannes.”

However, when Emma made her way down out of the Clauditorium to reveal the votes, she was replaced by Josh, who joined Johannes to chat with the celebs. And once again he divided opinions.

One user said: “Absolutely love Josh widdicombe but I feel like he should be on it takes too, he feels a little outta place on the main show.”

The first dance off took place tonight and for one celebrity it was the last dance on the BBC competition as famous faces have begun leaving the 2026 competition.

Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton was emotional after he was cut from the Strictly Come Dancing competition after losing in a dance off against Jaime Winstone.

The 43-year-old who has worked with with Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, was near the bottom of the leaderboard with a score of 33 after two weeks of dancing. Both he and his pro partner Amy Dowden were tearful after getting the boot.

In the dance off Chris and pro partner Amy performed their Cha Cha to I’ll Be Ready from Baywatch, before Jaime and Carlos Gu performed their Cha Cha to Oh, Pretty Woman from Pretty Woman.

The judges voted unanimously to save Jaime meaning she will be back next weekend. Chris had said earlier in the weekend he didn’t want to let his partner Amy down. He said: “I am really trying but also really enjoying it.”

But his cha cha managed just 17 points from the judges and in week one he got just 15, amongst the lowest scores in the competition.

After his elimination, Appleton said: “I think it’s been such a whirlwind of emotion. I’m 43 and I got good at doing what I did – which is hair. To come and do something like this, I felt so out of my comfort zone and saw myself in a way I never saw myself, and it challenged me in ways I never knew I could be challenged.

“I am very grateful for everyone who has been involved. It’s been so amazing to be part of something that I grew up watching and got to be a part of it.

“The most important thing I think I will take from this show is having a friend in Amy because I genuinely love her and I am so grateful I met someone who has so much heart and passion.

“I only wish I could have done better for her because she deserves to go further in the competition, but we did put everything into it.”

The news means a second year of bad luck for pro Amy Dowden on the show. Dowden was also eliminated first last season after being paired with The Apprentice contestant and businessman Thomas Skinner. She said she was “heartbroken” to leave the competition. Chris said he felt bad he hadn’t made it further in the competition but had a “friend for life” in Amy.

On Saturday night, Strictly Come Dancing’s movie week episode saw a peak of 5.6 million viewers. Over the course of the two-and-a-half hour programme, the 15 celebrities and their professional partners took to the dancefloor to perform routines inspired by movies including Titanic, Risky Business, Mary Poppins and Saturday Night Fever.

Delta Goodrem was called a “force to be reckoned with” after she topped the Strictly Come Dancing leaderboard with 59 points from the first two weeks of dancing.

A Strictly spokesperson said: “Strictly’s movie week was the most watched programme of the night, with a peak of 5.6 million viewers. As ever, overnight ratings do not give the full picture of all those who watch in an on-demand world.”

This week’s episode aired at the same time as the Croatia v England match on ITV. It also had an average of 5.1 million viewers with a 44.3% share, a rise on last week’s overnight figures.

The first Strictly live show of the season – which aired last Saturday – attracted a peak of five million, with an average of 4.8 million tuning in as the stars performed with their professional partners live for the first time. That episode has now also been watched by more than six million viewers.

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Fans of Strictly Come Dancing made their thoughts clear after the first dance off of the series sent one emotional couple packing after just two weeks

Strictly Come Dancing fans were shocked as the first celebrity was sent packing after Movie Week. Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton was emotional after he was cut from the hit BBC competition after losing in a dance off against Jaime Winstone.

The stylist, 43, who has worked with the likes of Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, was near the bottom of the leaderboard with a score of 33 after two weeks of dancing.

And it was the end of the road for Chris and his pro partner Amy Dowden, who were tearful at the decision They performed their Cha Cha to I’ll Be Ready from Baywatch, before Jaime and Carlos Gu performed their Cha Cha to Oh, Pretty Woman from Pretty Woman.

Jaime was unanimously saved buy the judges and lives to dance another day.

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Viewers took to X to say: “i so wish amy and chris’ partnership could’ve lasted longer 🙁 , a partnership i wanted from the very beginning.”

Another said: “SO sad to see Chris and Amy go. I don’t think they deserved to this week. Imo it should’ve been Melanie and Aljaz. But the public vote how they want to. And honestly I do still think Chris would’ve done MUCH better in a same sex partnership, but it was his choice. #Strictly.”

And a third said: “God I can feel myself crying for Chris and Amy. It’s so unfair.”

It’s the second time in successive series that Amy has been dumped at the first hurdle. She also got the boot alongside The Apprentice’s Thomas Skinner in 2025.

Chris said he had felt a “whirlwind of emotion” and said: “I’m 43 and got good at doing what I did which is hair. So to come into something like this, I felt so out my comfort zone.

“I saw myself in a way I’d never seen myself and challenged myself in ays I never knew I’d be challenged. But I’m very grateful for everyone who’s been involved.”

And he said having a friend in Amy is something he is thrilled with, before saying he wished he could have helped her go further. The professional dancer added she is “heartbroken” but her heart is only breaking because she doesn’t get to dance with Chris any more.

Fans were shocked after Melanie and Aljaz avoided the dreaded dance off despite being rock bottom of the judges’ leaderboard. One user said: “melanie must have got more votes than loads of people to get through over jaime who was much higher on the leaderboard #Strictly.”

Strictly fans could see a change in the hosting format this weekend after complaints were made that it “didn’t work” last week.

While fans were happy to see Emma Willis hosting from the dance floor, they were unconvinced that Josh Widdicombe belonged in the role at her side.

“The Strictly producers will be in a bit of a pickle now,” one fan pointed out at the weekend. “The overwhelming view seems to be that Emma is perfect and should host downstairs alone, and Josh should be moved upstairs as he’s way more of a comedic, lighthearted chat sort of host.”

Former pro dancer Vincent Simone told the Mirror this week that he sees the upheaval in the presenting duties is a major “downside”.

“I think the only downside of this year is that there’s been way too many changes all in one go,” he said. “Some people like changes, like me. Some people don’t.

“I can imagine some people saying, ‘Oh, Tess and Claudia are not going to be presenting, I won’t be watching it,’ or, you know, some of the professionals that I used to love, they won’t be performing again, ‘I’m not going to watch it again.’

“So unfortunately, it is what it is. I think there’s been way too many new changes all at once.”

Strictly Come Dancing fans are all making the same comment new It Takes Two presenter about Ellie Taylor. The comedian has replaced Fleur East and Janette Namrara on the BBC Two show

Strictly Come Dancing fans have showered the spin-off programme It Takes Two‘s new host with compliments after she succeeded Fleur East and Janette Namrara in the role. Some aspects of the weekday have come under fire following recent changes, but it appears the inclusion of Ellie Taylor is its one saving grace.

Following the announcement that Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe would be replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on the main programme, the BBC revealed in August that there were plans to revamp the midweek show as well. This decision saw Ellie given the It Takes Two presenting duties – four years after her stint on Strictly as a contestant.

Following the Beeb’s confirmation of Ellie’s role back in August, she said in a statement: “What a total joy to return to Strictly in this new role. I feel incredibly honoured to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal line-up of hosts who’ve made Strictly – It Takes Two so loved over the years.

“I can’t wait to immerse myself in all the gossip and sequins flying out of the ballroom in order to bring my fellow Strictly fans everything they need to know. I’m so excited, I could cha cha! (But I won’t – don’t worry… no one needs to see that again.)”.

Now, after the series’ first two showers, fans have issued praise towards Ellie, 42.

“Just catching up on It Takes Two,” one person said on X.” I’m not enjoying everything, but my God Ellie is smashing it soo far. Absolutely brilliant.”

A second person agreed: “Don’t like the changes, but Ellie is fab. Should have got the main gig with Emma.”

A third shared: “Ellie Taylor hosts it well, but the new version of It Takes Two has nothing worth watching anymore.”

While a fourth viewer added: “Ellie Taylor is good, the new It Takes Two set is awful with the wooden unvarnished floor all that glitz and glamour gone, no pro interviews. I know they wanted to revamp both the Strictly main show and It Takes Two but the changes aren’t good.”

And a fifth asked: “I adore Ellie Taylor but I’m not sure I like this new It Takes Two at all. Why are they making so many changes – why change the ITT set this year when it literally got changed last year?”

Essex-born Ellie old rose to prominence as a comedian before transitioning into presenting roles on programmes including Snog Marry Avoid? and The Great Pottery Throw Down. On It Takes Two, she faces the challenge of following in the footsteps of previous hosts Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark and Claudia.

It Takes Two producer Rhe-An Archibald said of the changes: “This is Strictly – It Takes Two, reinvented for the 2026 season. With a wealth of new features and deep dives, we want to reflect the conversations happening in living rooms up and down the country – full of opinions, laughs, surprises and those moments everyone wants to talk about.

“With the fun and funny Ellie at the helm, it will be an utterly unmissable companion to Strictly Come Dancing.”

Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two airs Monday to Friday at 6:30pm on BBC Two and is also available on BBC iPlayer.

Strictly Come Dancing hosts Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe have revealed all about the chaotic first live show, with them admitting to tears amid a ‘baptism of fire’

Strictly Come Dancing host Johannes Radebe admits he cried on the first live show, which was dubbed chaotic by fans.

The BBC programme’s hosts including former professional dancer Johannes, as well as Josh Widdicombe and Emma Willis have revealed all about the chaotic first live show, with Emma describing it as a “baptism of fire”.

Johannes admitted he was teary amid his live debut. He confessed to Ellie Taylor on It Takes Two that he was in tears in rehearsals for missing out on the chance to dance with a celebrity this year.

“In rehearsal, seeing them all come down in their outfits, knowing what they’re dancing that week, what they had to go through in the past two weeks, I was just like, ‘Ugh, I miss that^{.’ But I’ve got partners with me, so it’s fine,” he said.}

Josh even quipped that he wasn’t ready to say goodbye to one of the celebrities this week after they dance their movie-themed tunes. Whilst no one left this week, one will leave next Sunday.

Asked how he feels about the elimination, he said: “I feel really bad^{. I feel terrible already. Do you know what, I think I’m just going to do the Saturday show this week, and leave the other two to do the Sunday.}

“Last week, after the show, it was just joyous, everyone was really happy, and then Jojo went to us, ‘Wait till next week.'”

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“I don’t think I actually really thought about that until you’ve just brought it up, and you’ve just said how nervous you are, and now I’m like oh,” Emma added as they discussed the upcoming exit.

Emma also branded the first live show as a “baptism of fire”, whilst Josh seemed to reference the backlash to his performance for the first time, quipping: “It was incredible^{. It’s been very low-key since, no one’s talked to me about it.” He has been barraged with comments online about his appearance on the show, with critics pointing out one time he missed his cue.}

Former The Voice host Emma also said she felt bad how Josh was stood on one side of the stairs at the start, whilst her and Johannes walked down the same side of the famous Strictly stairs.

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