View 4 Images

Some Strictly Come Dancing stars have been unhappy with the shakeup, reports claim(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Guy Levy)

Strictly Come Dancing’s cast of celebrities and professional dancers have reportedly been left unhappy over a format change which is said to be ‘causing agony’ amongst the group.

This series of the BBC show has seen four couples being left hanging while they wait to find out which two pairs are in the dance off in the results show.

It has been reported that amongst the actual bottom two, two pairs of contestants are ‘picked at random’ in the group of four couples waiting to find out their fate. The ‘random’ couples may have finished much higher following the public vote, but have to wait longer than other stars to find out their fate.

View 4 Images

The ‘vulnerable four’ format has reportedly caused ‘agony’ for some stars(Image: BBC)

The move is reportedly intended to add more drama to the show, but the class of 2025 are said to be left unimpressed. This weekend saw Ellie Goldstein and Balvinder Sopal battle it out in the dance off after finding out their fate when in the bottom four alongside Amber Davies and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.

“The bottom four keeps every couple on their toes and it simply prolongs the agony for some,” A source has claimed to the Daily Mail. “It’s well known behind the scenes that the stars really aren’t fans of it as they simply dread being left till the end.

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. More info

“And in some cases it’s totally unnecessary as their votes place them high up in the standings, but they’re unaware of that, so it’s anxiety-inducing fear they don’t need.” Sunday’s results show is said to have been particularly tricky for Love Island star Amber, 29, who ended up in the dance off against Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, which shocked the cast, judges and viewers alike.

View 4 Images

Ellie and Balvinder were in the bottom two this week(Image: PA)

Following the dance off, Ellie, 23, was eliminated alongside her dance partner Vito Coppola, marking the end of ‘Team Cheeky’ – a nickname the pair had affectionately given to themselves during their stint in the competition.

Ellie gushed over her experience on the show in an Instagram post shared on Sunday following the live show. The photos showed her and Vito dancing together from this weekend and Ellie penned in the caption: “THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART

“Wow… what a journey! I can’t even begin to put into words how grateful I am for all the love, support and beautiful messages I’ve received since leaving Strictly Come Dancing. Every single comment, message, vote, cheer and encouragement has meant the world to me.”

View 4 Images

Ellie and Vito were eliminated this week(Image: PA)

Article continues below

Ellie added: “Being part of Strictly has been a dream come true the sparkle, the music, the laughter, and most of all, the people. I’ve grown so much, learned things I never thought I could do, and made memories I’ll treasure forever.”To my amazing dance partner @vitocoppola thank you for believing in me, for your patience, for pushing me to be my best, and for being by my side through every single step. You’re truly one of a kind. my life now fills complete with you in it

“To the @bbcstrictly team, the judges, love you @claudiawinkle and @tessdaly the wardrobe, hair & makeup, crew, and everyone behind the scenes thank you for making this magical show what it is. You’ve given me an experience I’ll never forget. And the fabulous cast I love you all.”Massive thanks to @zebedeetalent for all your support to me through my incredible time on Strictly you are all amazing

“And finally, to everyone watching at home thank you for opening your hearts to me, for celebrating inclusion, and for showing that dance is for everyone. and you CAN achieve anything you want just follow your dreams”This isn’t goodbye… just the beginning of a new chapter,” Ellie wrote as she signed off the emotional message to mark the end of her Strictly Come Dancing journey.