STRICTLY judges have been branded “harsh” after handing a celebrity the second lowest score in the show’s history.
Ross King took to the dancefloor with pro partner Jowita Przystał, delivering a routine that left viewers and the judges speechless – but not in a good way.
Ross King performed the cha cha cha in week 1
He scored the second lowest score in Strictly history
The US showbiz reporter, known for his work on Lorraine, danced a very memorable cha cha cha on Strictly’s first live show.
Ross kicked off his routine in spectacular fashion, sliding down a red slide – but he went a little too far, nearly taking out the cameramen in the process.
Jowita then joined him on the dance floor, in an outfit so sparkly to distract everyone from Ross’ timing issues and overall dancing.
But the sparkles failed to distract the judges as they were left far from impressed by the performance.
Shirley Ballas pointed out his timing and feet position as she was booed by the crowd for her harsh comments.
She added: “I’m just being honest, he’s got somewhere to grow.”
Craig Revel Horwood said: “Not a good one for you, I’m afraid. Very awkward and very pigeon-toed.”
Anton Du Beke commented: “I love the performance, it was a great energy about it, it was very uplifting I enjoyed it, but there was quite a lot going wrong down below.”
Motsi Mabuse chimed in: “This is someone who has never danced ever ever. Millions are watching. We’ve all started somewhere, and there’s space to climb and we were climb them with you.”
Craig scored him a 2. Motsi scored him a 3. Shirley scored him a 2. Anton scored him a 3.
With a combined score of 10, it is the second lowest score in show history.
The lowest was Quentin Wilson’s Cha Cha Cha back in 2004, who gained a combined score of 8.
The former Top Gear star holds a few unenviable Strictly records, including the lowest ever score from the judges, the only single-digit score and the only time more than one member of the panel has given out a “1”.
Craig, Arlene, Len and Bruno voted: 1, 1, 3, 3.
Viewers flooded with comments about the judges being too “harsh.”
Taking to X, one wrote: “NAHHH ROSS MAN. His scores were way harsh. It’s Week One seriously.”
Another added: “I thought Ross was going to fall at one point. He seems a gem though, I just felt like his panic was glaring at me once it started going wrong. It’s only the beginning though, keep it going!”
A third penned: “Ross King. Bless him. He’s so canny. Brutal to put him after the Billy Elliott dancer! #StrictlyComeDancing.”
Ross got a combined score of 10
Viewers thought the judges comments were too “harsh” 
