Strictly Come Dancing’s eighth week brought all the glitz, drama, and shocking scores we’ve come to expect from the beloved dance competition. As the remaining couples fought for a coveted spot in next week’s Blackpool special, tensions were high both on and off the dance floor. In a night filled with stellar performances and surprising stumbles, here’s a rundown of the biggest moments.
Standout Performances
Several couples delivered showstopping routines that wowed the judges and audience alike. Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec earned a near-perfect score for their sensual and sophisticated Argentine Tango, tying them for the top spot on the leaderboard. Judge Motsi Mabuse praised the performance, declaring:
That was an Argentine Tango masterclass. The chemistry, the technique, the storytelling – it was all there. Absolutely brilliant!
– Motsi Mabuse
Also impressing the judges were JB Gill and Lauren Oakley with their energetic Samba. Despite Amy Dowden’s absence due to injury, Lauren stepped in seamlessly, and the pair’s hard work paid off with a score matching Tasha and Aljaz’s.
Surprise Stumbles
Not everyone had a flawless night, though. Fan favorites Shayne Ward and Wynne Evans found themselves at the bottom of the scoreboard after their respective Rumba and American Smooth failed to impress the judges. Craig Revel Horwood criticized Shayne’s Rumba, saying it lacked fluidity and connection.
Wynne’s American Smooth, while entertaining, had technical issues that cost the pair valuable points. Anton Du Beke noted that though the performance value was high, the fundamentals needed work.
The Race to Blackpool
With Blackpool Week on the horizon, the pressure was on for couples to secure their spot in the iconic Tower Ballroom. The show’s special yearly event is considered a milestone achievement for any Strictly competitor. As host Tess Daly noted:
Blackpool is the week everyone wants to reach. It’s where Strictly magic truly comes alive. The competition is tighter than ever, so nobody’s spot is guaranteed.
– Tess Daly
The evening ended with no one couple completely safe from elimination. Pete Wicks and Sarah Hadland both delivered Couple’s Choice routines that divided the judges, while Chris McCausland’s Couple’s Choice showcased his growth in the competition thus far. It will be up to the voting public to decide which couples move forward and whose Strictly journey ends just short of Blackpool.
Looking Ahead
Next week’s results show will reveal which couples are Blackpool-bound and who will bid a tearful farewell to the ballroom. But no matter the outcome, the competition is far from over. An insider source teased:
The dance-athon will return in a few weeks, meaning the couples’ rankings could be shaken up once again. It’s still anyone’s game as we head into the finals.
– Strictly inside source
One thing’s certain: if this week is any indication, the rest of the Strictly competition will be filled with incredible performances, shocking eliminations, and all the sequined drama we just can’t resist. Keep tuning in to see who waltzes away with the coveted Glitterball Trophy.
