Table of Contents
- Shirley Ballas on Lewis Cope's Exit
- Impact on Shirley Ballas
- Details of the Dance Off
- Reactions on Social Media
- Amber Davies' Defense
Shirley Ballas has disclosed the emotional strain caused by Lewis Cope's exit from Strictly, describing the decision as ‘heart-wrenching.’
The quarter-finals brought a significant surprise as Lewis – who had frequently topped the leaderboard and was the first to achieve a perfect score this series – was eliminated.
Shirley Ballas has opened up about the emotional impact of Lewis Cope’s unexpected exit this week
Lewis was eliminated in the quarter-final after a dance-off with Amber DaviesCredit: PA
Shirley was visibly upset by the decisionCredit: BBC
During tonight’s episode of It Takes Two, the Head Judge informed host Fleur East that Lewis's surprising departure had significantly affected her.
She stated: “I didn’t sleep after Lewis was eliminated, and I probably won’t sleep tonight either because everything is uncertain... you never know how the show will unfold at this point.”
“Anyone could go home, and anyone could win.”
During Sunday’s results show, Strictly viewers noticed the reactions after Lewis, 30, and his pro partner Katya, 36, completed their performance.
A Strictly viewer inquired if the decision was the most challenging one the panel had faced this series, to which she replied: “I was in tears, and Motsi was too.”
“When we went upstairs, the boys were also emotional. It was heart-wrenching to see two incredible dancers in the bottom two.”
“Normally I can handle these situations, but for some reason last week was particularly tough, and Motsi and I ended up comforting each other.”
Before the shocking dance-off, Amber, 29, and pro partner Nikita, 27, received a perfect score of 40 for their Charleston.
Lewis and Katya were close behind, earning a score of 35 for their Salsa.
Commenting on a clip showcasing Shirley and Motsi’s emotional reactions, one fan remarked: “They clearly did not want to vote.”
“I’ve never seen Shirley so speechless and nearly in tears. There should be a rule stating that if the dance-off features couples with high scores and/or close scores, and if all judges agree, then no one should be eliminated.”
Another viewer expressed: “The show is a farce. It’s based on popularity, not talent.”
Following the results, Amber faced severe criticism online, prompting her to defend herself on her Instagram.
Shirley mentioned that she and Motsi consoled each other through their tearsCredit: BBC
Lewis had frequently topped the leaderboard during the seriesCredit: PA
She stated: “Guys, please... It’s really just a television show. I wasn’t even supposed to be in the competition.”
“You have no idea what we endure physically and mentally for this experience.”
“I’m genuinely doing my best with the opportunity that has come my way. To everyone who has left a NICE comment, thank you.”
Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday, December 12 at 6:35 PM on BBC One.
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Eze Chidiebere Paul
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