Strictly Come Dancing fans have had plenty to say about Saturday’s episode as the stars took on Movie Week. However, one star has hit out after his previous experience came to light.
Actor Lewis Cope has been surrounded by claims that the show is rigged after he finished as the runner-up in series four of Got to Dance, as well as appearing on the West End in shows including. Billy Elliot the Musical. Elsewhere, the leaked spoiler, revealing who has been sent home, has sparked more backlash.
This week, the couples took to the dance floor for the third live show of the series, and it certainly did not disappoint. The theme this week was Movies, with the celebrities and their professional partners dancing to some of the biggest tracks from films over the years as they battled to secure a position in the fourth live show.
Daniel Bird
Lewis furiously hits back at critics
Actor Lewis Cope has fiercely denied fix claims. The Emmerdale actor has previous dance experience, which has left fans fuming.
After topping the leaderboard when Motsi Mabuse gave him a 10 for his Paso Doble, Lewis defended himself against the critics. “I don’t really know where all that came from, to be honest,” he said of the claims the show is rigged due to his past experience.
Lewis added: “I trained as an actor, I danced a bit when I was a teen, but haven’t since. It’s only ever really been acting for me for a long, long time – so I don’t really know where that came from.”
He added to Metro: “I don’t really take notice of it though – everyone’s so strong, and anyone can pull out a brilliant performance at any point. To call me professionally trained or a professional dancer seems a bit bizarre, especially now that I’m working with these pros on the show.”
Lewis explained it was an “insult” to compare him to professional dancers on the show.
Lewis has hit out at critics (
Image:
CREDIT LINE:BBC/Guy Levy)
Daniel Bird
‘Most iconic dance ever’
George Clarke has been flooded with praise after his dance routine last night. The TikTok star and his professional partner, Alexis Warr, danced the Couple’s Choice to Soda Pop from KPop Demon Hunters.
After the clip was shared on social media, the Internet star was instantly praised. His pal, Max Balegde, said: “Most iconic dance ever. Team George, team George, team George.”
Vicky Pattison added: “Obsessed with these two.” “Amazing dance, they looked so epic,” said one fan.
Fans praised George and Alexis (
Image:
CREDIT LINE:BBC/Guy Levy)
KEY EVENT
Fans left fuming
The results have been disclosed online, revealing who has been sent home – and fans are not happy.
A social media account shared the results in the early hours, and fans have been left raging after seeing which two stars were in the bottom two.
One fan said: “Very surprised to see one of the names in the dance off. I would’ve thought they had loads of support, considering the Strictly audience.” Meanwhile, a second went on to write: “What the f**k.” “How the f**k did that person end up in the dance off? Once again the British public can’t be trusted to vote for anything,” added a third.
Paige Ingram
Stefan Dennis’ wife details ‘frantic call’ after health scare
Stefan Dennis’ wife has opened up about a “frantic call” she received following a health scare he had last year. Referencing the incident last year and comparing it to his latest health scare this week she said: “your body is shouting at you again. Make sure you listen!”
Read the full story by clicking here.
Paige Ingram
Fans make same complaint about ‘major’ change
Some fans online noted that something was off about this year’s movie week, noticing a few changes to the BBC studio.
On X (formerly known as Twitter), @supertv247 wrote: “Why is #Strictly Movies week so stripped back this year!? Where is the giant MOVIES sign, and the star paddles”
@excusezftmoi replied: “I swear once upon a time they used to decorate the judges’ desk and the stairs too?”
Another viewer @noelle___G also noted: “Catching up on Strictly. Not the best Movie Week they’ve had. Usually costumes are far more over the top for this. Most looked like any other week. And not the best song choices either.”
Paige Ingram
Lewis Cope’s co-star speaks out after ‘winning’ performance
Strictly’s Lewis Cope’s Emmerdale co-star Lisa Riley has rushed to praise the actor after his “winning” performance.
Paige Ingram
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey makes apology
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey’s took on the Salsa to I Always Wanted A Brother from Mufasa: The Lion King last night.
As Tess Daly quipped: “That is a strong look Harry!”, the star replied: “I apologise to everyone for the nudity” as he laughed.
The judges appeared to enjoy the performance as well, with Craig Revel Horwood adding: “I almost forgot to look at the footwork. I can’t for the life of me think why, darling!”
Shirley Ballas added: “You are going from strength to strength, I mean you are quite extraordinary in every department!”
Donning his shirtless attire to show off his Gladiator’s physique, Harry offered an apology to everyone following his performance.
Mia O’Hare
Vicky Pattison issues message to fans
Viewers noticed Vicky appeared close to tears following her dance this evening as she faced tough comments from the judges. However, just moments later she was jumping for joy after receiving their not so shabby scores.
Following the show, Vicky has made sure to acknowlege her fans support as she shared: “Thank you so much for your kind words and support so far in the competition… I’d love to stay in a prove I deserbe to be here and make @kaiwidd proud!”
Dancer Kai also shared his own message as he said: ““A little party Never killed no body“And we got two 7s!!! Thankyou everyone for the amazing support.”
Vicky appeared to struggle as she heard her feedback
KEY EVENT
Judge with tomorrow’s casting vote revealed
It has been confirmed Shirley will have the casting vote on tomorrow night’s show as one pair will be sent home. The celebrities have done all they can to secure a spot on next week’s show and it is now up to the fans and judges to see if they’ll make it.
KEY EVENT
‘The dance of the night’
It seems the best was left till last as Lewis and Katya received gushing feedback from the judges as they closed the show. Even tough judge Craig gave a 9, while Motsi offered up a 10. They topped the leaderboard with an impressive 37 scores.
Lewis and Katya received impressive scoresDon’t Miss
Shirley Ballas makes eye-brow raising comment about Harry
Head judge Shirley didn’t hold back on her gushing compliments towards Harry following his routine that he performed while topless. She gushed: “You are quite extraordinary in every department.”
The audience erupted into shocked laughter as she quipped: “I am blushing.” Host Tess added: “Shirley has gone kiddy!”
Shirley didn’t hold back her compliments
Mia O’Hare
Benched dancer Nancy Xu returns to spotlight
Professional dancer Nancy revealed her disappointment at being benched this year as she missed out on a celebrity partner. It means she has taken a step back from the dancefloor as she will only star in group routines instead.
However, she made a return to the limelight tonight as she took centre stage to share how fans can stay up to date with all things Strictly.
Fans noticed her comeback as one said: “I MISS NANCY.” Another added: “JUSTICE FOR NANCY!”
Nancy made her comeback
KEY EVENT
Vicky Pattison close to tears as she faces tough criticism
Vicky appeared to wobble as she heard her tough scores following her Great Gatsby inspired performance. She managed to put on a brave face as she faced the judges while being supported by dancer Kai.
One fan noticed as they said: “oh vicky is breaking my heart.” Another added: ““Oh don’t be so nervous!” after ripping the dance to shreds, some interesting judging choices tonight.”
Someone else commented: “first of all, reminding vicky all the time that she’s a nervous person is just going to make her more nervous. secondly, the judges could see she was getting upset and still piled on the negatives without them being constructive.”
KEY EVENT
Judges face criticism over their scores
It seems the judges have high expectations tonight as their scores haven’t been easy to secure. Fans have even picked up on the series of low scores as one said: “The scores are so terrible tonight i honestly cannot stand these judges.” Another added: “scores are all over the place…I’ll be giving votes to balvinder and karen since the judges are against them.”
Someone else commented: “when we said we wanted strictly back to normal we meant the normal results show format not stupidly ridiculous scores?????”
The judges have faced criticism over their scoring
Mia O’Hare
Confusion brews over Cynthia’s role as guest judge
Hollywood star Cynthia is on hand tonight offering her advice to the Strictly stars, yet viewers have noticed she’s missing a major role. The actress and singer has been sat on the judging panel, but isn’t giving a score.
One fan noted: “I don’t understand why Cynthia isn’t voting. When they’ve had guest judges before they’ve voted! Did they forget to make the paddles??” Another added: “What is Cynthia actually doing there if she can’t vote ?”
Someone else commented: “I assume the reason they aren’t letting Cynthia vote is it would really mess with the scoring statistics?”
Mia O’Hare
Strictly fans complain about huge missed opportunity
Strictly fans have issued a complaint as guest judge Cynthia Erivo takes to the judging panel. The Hollywood star is on hand to offer her advice and support to this year’s stars but some viewers were disappointed she didn’t perform herself.
The pros danced along to Wicked’s As Long as You’re Mine – but fans were left disappointed when Cynthia wasn’t singing despite being a guest mentor on the show.
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan penned: “Already a missed opportunity to have Cynthia sing for this group performance. Would’ve been fire,” while a second wrote: “Why are the strictly singers allowed to murder this when they’ve literally has Cynthia Erivo in #Strictly.”
Cynthia hasn’t performed on the show (
Image:
BBC)
KEY EVENT
Viewers issue complaints as audience get carried away
Some fans watching at home weren’t so impressed by the live studio audience as they issued complaints. One said: “why is there so much screaming and shrieking in the audience tonight.” Another added: “Who is screaming in the #Strictly audience?” Someone else commented: “Can the screeching girls in the audience please stop.”
KEY EVENT
George Clarke takes mick out of his Strictly costume
George didn’t appear too impressed by his outfit this week as he took to TikTok to share a tongue in cheek video before taking to the dancefloor. This week, he is performing to KPop Demon Hunter’s song and wore a very fitting costume.
Highest scores of the series so far!
Amber and Nikita certainly have something to celebrate after being the first stars to perform this week. They managed to bag the highest scores of the series so far, with Craig even coughing up an 8 for the pair.
The Love Island star was so delighted she jumped up and down in the Clauditorium with Nikita. One fan said: “I love Nikita and Amber so much #Strictly.” Another added: “Nikita and Amber that was just incredible, loved the prop work which is never easy! Totally earned those high scores!”
Someone else commented: “the 9s for amber’s american smooth were sooo deserved.”
Amber and Nikita were so excited about their score
KEY EVENT
Anton takes savage swipe at fellow judge Craig
Judge Anton appeared to get carried away after the first performance as he took a cheeky dig at his co-star Craig. Following Amber and Nikita’s performance to Seventeen from the Sound of Music, he quipped: “You picked a faboulous song that they did a new version of, I understand, for Craig. They changed the lyrics over so slightly ‘you are 60 going on 70’.”
Craig took it well as he replied: “Yes that might be true darling but I look 16.”
Mia O’Hare
Tess and Claudia address Stefan’s absence with direct message
Before the action gets underway, hosts Tess and Claudia addressed Stefan Dennis’ absence from this week’s show. Claudia said: “Stefan and Dianne aren’t with us, as Stefan has been unwell this week and advised not to dance by the medical team. As per the rules, they will get a bye through to next Saturday. We are all wishing Stefan a speedy recovery.”
Tess added: “Lots of love Stefan, lots of love from all of us.”
STRICTLY
Mia O’Hare
Hollywood icon Cynthia Erivo gives her expert advice
Wicked star Cynthia has been on hand all week guiding the pros and celebrities through their routines in a show twist. The Strictly contestants have been lapping up her advice as she revealed she’s “really impressed” by their progress. She has even landed a spot on the judges table, to a delight to fans.
Mia O’Hare
Pros take to the dancefloor for a magical performance
The professional dancers have shown exactly what they’ve got as they kicked off the show with a captivating routine to kick of Movie Week in a performance inspired by the upcoming Wicked film.
The pros performed a routine inspired by Wicked
Mia O’Hare
Here we go!
Movie Week has officially kicked off as Strictly’s returned to screens with the red carpet fully rolled out…
Mia O’Hare
Not long to go!
The countdown is on for this week’s Strictly Come Dancing as the glitzy competition returns in just 15 minutes. Make sure to tune in and keep dancing!
Mia O’Hare
Vicky Pattison lays bare her injuries after chaotic training week
Strictly contestant Vicky Pattison hasn’t had the best luck this week as she prepares to take to the dancefloor in less than an hours time. It has been a tough time for the reality TV star who has battled illness, injury, and even a minor dog-related accident.
Vicky told fans she was “ill at the start of the week” before things quickly went from bad to worse. She shared a photo of her bloodied nose on her Instagram story, writing: “Just been one of those weeks lads…
“Ill at the start of the week, chipped me tooth in a spicy lift with Kai and now Max has popped me nose and cut it in his sheer excitement to see me… I can’t be mad…but I am b***y due some good luck surely.”
Mia O’Hare
Fans hold out hope to see Stefan and Dianne’s Music Week routine – despite missing it
Fans haven’t given up hope on getting a chance to watch Stefan Dennis and Dianne Buswell take on Movie Week after they teased a Shrek inspired routine.
The actor has been forced to step away from the competition this week due to illness, meaning he gets a pass onto next week’s show. Many fans have now predicted the pair will recreate their Movie Week dance later in the series.
Sharing their theories, one fan said: “I think he’ll do the Shrek routine next week! Nick Knowles got a bye in movie week last year and did his movie week dance in week 4 instead of.”
Another added: “I hope you’re right! I was really looking forward to seeing their costumes and the hard work the team had put into them, would be a shame to waste them.” Someone else commented: “Aw that’s a shame, it was literally the dance I was most looking forward to.” Fingers crossed we get to see them take on the green ogre!
Stefan Dennis and Dianne Buswell were set to do a Shrek routine (
Image:
Guy Levy/BBC/PA)
Mia O’Hare
‘The Strictly winner is decided before show even starts, and I know who it is’
It’s not just impressive dance moves that can secure the Glitterball trophy as popularity has long played a role in the Strictly results. Whether viewers vote for their favourite soap star or their preferred pro dancer who has that bubbly personality, it certainly plays its role.
Dr Louise Goddard-Crawley, a Consultant Psychologist, thinks she knows who will bag this year’s title as she told the Mirror: “Ellie Goldstein brings something profoundly human to this year’s Strictly; an unfiltered joy that reconnects people with what dancing is really about: expression, belonging, and play.
“She’s the embodiment of lightness, not just in her movement but in her spirit. Watching her feels restorative, like being reminded of the part of ourselves that still delights in life without self-consciousness.
“Her partnership with Vito Coppola amplifies that energy. He is instinctively protective, emotionally fluent, and endlessly kind… qualities that make him one of the show’s most intuitive professionals. Together, they radiate warmth and sincerity. Their connection feels safe and joyful in equal measure, and that balance cuts through the noise of competition.”
She predicted that Ellie is “a likely finalist, and possibly the emotional winner of the series”. Read Dr Louise’s full verdict on this year’s contestants here.
Mia O’Hare
Real reason Stefan Dennis isn’t competing tonight
Neighbours star Stefan will be missing from tonight’s show as he won’t be taking to the dancefloor with Dianne Buswell, who is pregnant with her first child. His absence was confirmed last night as the BBC issued a statement.
They said: “Due to illness over the past few days, Stefan Dennis has been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, he will not dance this weekend.
“In lines with the rules of Strictly, Stefan and Dianne will receive a bye through to next week when they will hopefully be able to dance again.” Stefan’s withdrawal means the duo will miss out on performing during Movie Week, but they hope to be back next week.
Stefan Dennis won’t be competing tonight (
Image:
BBC)
Amy Denman
What time is Strictly Come Dancing on tonight?
We haven’t got long to wait as the live show will kick off at 6.05pm on BBC One. Expect a jam-packed show as the dances won’t wrap up until 8.30pm. Stay tuned!
The live show airs for just under two and a half hours (Image: Guy Levy/BBC/PA)
Share
Amy Denman
Dianne hits back after Stefan’s announcement
Following Stefan’s announcement he is set to not take part in this week’s live show, the Neighbours star’s professional dance partner Dianne Buswell has been forced to hit back at claims that Stefan’s illness is being used as a “cover up”.
Writing on her Instagram Story, Dianne clarified cruel theories around her pregnancy impacting her ability to dance were incorrect. She penned: “I just to clarifiy as I have seen lots of people msg me thinking this is a cover up for me being not able to dance!?
“Firstly we wouldn’t lie especially about somebody being sick ! And secondly I am fine yes I’m pregnant but I’m also very capable and feeling really good !thirdly there are things in place if any pro were to get sick or injured”. [sic]
Stefan Dennis and Dianne Buswell will not be performing this week (Image: Guy Levy/BBC/PA)
Share
KEY EVENT
This week’s dances revealed
While we’re yet to see how this week’s live performances will pan out, we can get excited for what is to come. Here is Movie Week’s songs and dances:
Alex Kingston and Johannes Radebe – Quickstep to Suddenly I See from The Devil Wears Prada
Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon – Foxtrot to The Way You Look Tonight from Swing Time
Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova – Paso Doble to Sweet Child O’Mine from Thor: Love and Thunder
Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola – Samba to Dance the Night from Barbie
George Clarke and Alexis Warr – Couple’s Choice to Soda Pop from KPop Demon Hunters
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and Karen Hauer – Salsa to I Always Wanted a Brother from Mufasa: The Lion King
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Lauren Oakley – Rumba to No Time to Die from James Bond
Karen Carney and Carlos Gu – Cha Cha to She’s a Lady from Miss Congeniality
La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec – Waltz to Feed the Birds (Tuppence A Bag) from Mary Poppins
Lewis Cope and Katya Jones – Paso Doble to The Plaza of Execution from The Mask of Zorro
Ross King and Jowita Przystał – Paso Doble to Thunderbirds Theme from Thunderbirds
Vicky Pattison and Kai Widdrington – Charleston to A Little Party Never Killed Nobody from The Great Gatsby
Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin – American Smooth to Sixteen Going on Seventeen from The Sound of Music
Sadly, one performance that will not be taking place this weekend is Dianne and Stefan’s, as Stefan has been forced to pull out due to illness this week. The couple were due to dance the Waltz to It Is You (I Have Loved) from Shrek.
