Two show firsts unfolded in quick succession on tonight’s programme leaving the cast visibly emotional
Strictly Come Dancing history was made not once but twice this evening (October 18), prompting tears from across the cast.
Judge Shirley Ballas abandoned the judging panel as she battled back tears in an unprecedented moment on the show. She was visibly emotional watching actress Alex Kingston and professional partner Johannes Radebe perform their rumba to Fast Car by Tracy Chapman.
In an extraordinary first for the BBC programme, Shirley departed the judging panel and walked onto the dance floor to join the celebrity and her dance partner.
“I have to tell you,” she declared, “I’m going to get emotional… but in all of my time on Strictly I have never seen a pair of legs work like that.”
She praised it as an “absolutely perfect routine” featuring “stunning choreography”, adding that the chemistry between the dancers was “portrayed beautifully.”
Suddenly, Shirley extended her arms towards Alex, asking: “May I give the Queen a kiss?”
The pair then shared a heartfelt embrace, with Alex tearful as she exclaimed: “I’m going to cry!” Shirley subsequently returned to her seat, leaving presenter Tess Daly utterly stunned, reports the Express.
“That’s never happened before in Strictly history,” she announced. At this stage, Alex was overwhelmed with emotion, tears streaming down her cheeks.
Tess was equally moved by the atmosphere, commenting: “Oh, goodness me, I wish I had a tissue!”
Back at the judging desk, Anton was rendered speechless before following Shirley’s lead and approaching the floor to congratulate Alex with a handshake and enthusiastic “well done”.
However, Craig was met with thunderous boos as he offered some constructive feedback, suggesting she should extend her legs a bit more. Once the audience’s reaction subsided, he added: “You are becoming quite the dancer.” The boos swiftly transformed into enthusiastic cheers.
Motsi also gave a sparkling critique, declaring: “This was on a whole different level.” Alex attributed the breathtaking performance to her “amazing connection” with Johannes.
Alex and Johannes secured an eight from Craig, a nine from Motsi and a nine from Anton. Meanwhile Shirley offered up a 10, marking another history-making moment and taking the couple’s score to 36 points.
After the points were revealed, Claudia said: “We’ve never, ever had a 10 for a rumba in week four. Ever.”
BBC Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturday nights from 6.30pm. The live results will be broadcast on Sunday at 7.15pm.
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