Strictly Come Dancing fans ‘tear up’ as Ross King shares emotional message

Strictly Come Dancing star Ross King was in tears as he made an emotional admission during the second live show of the series

Strictly Come Dancing fans “teared up” as Ross King shared an emotional message.

The beloved BBC dance show made its return to television on Saturday night (October 4) with the second live show, as presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman welcomed the famous faces back to the legendary ballroom.

Judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood were poised to assess the routines, before the first departure on Sunday.

During the programme, Lorraine star Ross and his professional dance partner Jowita Przystał delivered a Waltz to “Sunshine on Leith” by The Proclaimers.

In preparation for their dance, the duo travelled to Loch Lomond in Scotland, where Ross became overwhelmed whilst reflecting on his youth, reports Wales Online.

READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing 2025: Who is at the top of the leaderboard after week two?READ MORE: BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans pay tribute after emotional nod to ‘dearly departed Len’

“I’m a very proud Scots person. I had to move away for work, but I could always see myself coming back. So many memories around here,” he said through tears whilst discussing his deceased parents.

“My school friends, my sister Elaine. I think about my mum and dad when I’m here. It’s special here, it’s happy crying.”

Ross continued: “I feel so lucky to bring Jowita here… The people of Scotland have been unbelievable, all the support I’ve had. Hopefully, I’ll do the country proud. I’ll do my best.”

After his routine, Ross grew emotional once more as he revealed, “I feel like I’m kind of the poster boy or the poster older man for people who can’t dance but want to dance.”

The panel said that the entertainment correspondent had shown the “most improved” performance, whilst noting that he still needed to focus on his musicality.

Strictly fans were equally complimentary about Ross’s routine, with one viewer posting on X (formerly Twitter): “G’on yerself Ross, that was very graceful and full of dignity and pride. Big improvement on last week, well done.”

Another commented: “I really love Ross…he seems like such a lovely man. I found myself wanting him to do so well.”

A third fan remarked: “Ross and Jowita have me tearing up during their beautiful dance that was dedicated to Scotland. You did all us Scot’s proud. Keep going my love. You have my votes tonight.”

After last weekend’s live show, former footballer Karen Carney and her professional partner Carlos Gu claimed the top spot on the leaderboard after earning 31 points for their Jive to Blondie’s “One Way or Another”.

In contrast, Ross and Jowita were at the bottom of the rankings after scoring just 10 points for their Hollywood-themed Cha Cha Cha to “California Gurls” by Katy Perry.

Strictly Come Dancing is available to stream on BBC iPlayer