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STRICTLY star Balvinder Sopal was moved to tears and needed a comforting hug from a judge after her breathtaking performance.
The 47-year-old faced immense pressure leading up to Saturday’s live show.
Balvinder was overwhelmed with emotion and embraced by Motsi Mabuse as she received high praise for her performanceCredit: BBC
Motsi showered praise on the Eastenders star, expressing how “proud” she was of herCredit: BBC
Despite previous setbacks, Balvinder showcased her resilience by dancing the Viennese Waltz to "The Greatest Showman" alongside her partner Julian Caillon, surprising both judges and viewers with a “stunning routine.”
Her powerful performance earned a tremendous ovation from the audience, with the judges echoing their admiration through glowing feedback.
After her dance, Anton Du Beke told Balvinder: “I think I love you now – more than ever.”
“First of all, congratulations – this was epic. This was an extraordinary performance,” he continued.
He complimented her entrance onto the stage, stating that she looked “absolutely stunning,” and praised Balvinder for maintaining her position and delivering a “magnificent” performance.
However, Craig Revel Horwood pointed out some areas for improvement in her technique.
He remarked: “I have an issue with your arms – they should extend from the body, not just from the shoulder.”
Craig noted that while her right arm moved perfectly, “the left arm seems to lag behind.”
He mentioned several other technical errors during his feedback but acknowledged that the performance had “flow, feeling, and emotion,” concluding with: “You are a fighter.”
Motsi Mabuse was mesmerized by the routine, especially after what she described as a “demoralizing” few weeks in the competition.
Before she could finish her feedback, she was moved to tears and consoled by pro dancer Julian, before quickly stepping away from the judges’ podium to hug Balvinder.
During their embrace, her microphone picked up her saying: “You did amazing – I’m so proud of you.”
Motsi told the actress that she’s “always so composed” and that she would “always be a hero for me” after delivering such a stellar performance despite her record number of dance-off appearances.
She continued: “I had chills. Anton, Motsi, and I felt sensitivity, grace, charm, beauty, and determination.”
“I just loved it; you were fantastic,” Shirley concluded as Balvinder awaited the judges' scores.
The dancing duo received a total score of 35, with Craig Revel Horwood scoring eight, while Motsi, Shirley, and Anton each awarded the pair nines.
The couple performed a Viennese Waltz to "The Greatest Showman" during Saturday night’s live show
Last week, the star found herself in the bottom two for the fifth consecutive week, making history as the contestant with the most dance-off appearances.
Three previous celebrities who survived four dance-offs and went on to reach the final include , , and .
Last week, Balvinder and Julian faced off against actress Alex Kingston and .
Before performing, Balvinder stated: “The fates are sealed; whatever happens, happens.”
Both couples repeated their routines; Alex and Johannes danced their Cha Cha to Anita Ward’s "Ring My Bell," followed by Balvinder and Julian performing their Jive to "Right Back Where We Started From" by Maxine Nightingale.
After both couples danced again in the dance-off, the judges delivered their decisions, with and opting to save Balvinder and choosing to save Alex.
Balvinder received an enthusiastic ovation from the audience following her performance, coming back from five weeks in the bottom twoCredit: BBC
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Balvinder Sopal's performance about?
Balvinder performed a Viennese Waltz to "The Greatest Showman" with her partner
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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