The razzmatazz continues as Stefan Dennis shakes his thing, Thomas Skinner boshes out a salsa and Ellie Goldstein waltzes to similarly-named artist Ellie Goulding. But who will be departing the dancefloor?
Judges’ comments: Shirley says “you caressed the floor, a ballroom butterfly, epitome of grace and charm, you can spin, girl”. Anton says “absolute delight, if you keep improving like that, you’ll be unstoppable, just take bigger steps”. Craig says “smooth it out, not enough rise and fall but the turns were controlled and loved your commitment to the story”. Motsi concludes “posture much better, extensions and feet too, just improve musicality, well done”. Sixes incoming?
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8m ago
19.16 BST
Ellie and Vito’s waltz
Ellie G dances to Ellie G. Some viewers were worried by Ellie Goldstein looking exhausted and emotional in the Clauditorium last week but the model and Malory Towers actress denied she was upset. She’s sweetly channelling a Disney princes for this floaty waltz with pro partner Vito Coppola playing the Prince Charming role. Elegant, smooth and light. Controlling her natural energy and enthusiasm well. Lovely storytelling. Petals fall. Magical.
Song: Your Song by Ellie Goulding. Her tender, fluttery cover of the Elton John classic was featured in the 2010 John Lewis Christmas advert. She also performed it at Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding for their first dance. Sadly, everyone was too busy talking about Pippa’s bum to notice.
Vito Coppola and Ellie Goldstein
Vito Coppola and Ellie Goldstein Photograph: Guy Levy/BBC/PA
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11m ago
19.13 BST
Judges’ scores: 7, 8, 8, 8 for a total of 31 points. Joint highest score of the series and 10 more than last week. Carnival!
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14m ago
19.10 BST
Judges’ comments: Motsi says “a real surprise, fluidity and timing”. Shirley says “one of the better sambas I’ve seen in a long time, great basics”. Anton says “loved it”. Craig concludes “needed more tightness but danced the range of steps brilliantly”. Sevens ? Even an eight or two?
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17m ago
19.07 BST
Alex and Jojo’s samba
Many thought that actor Alex Kingston and beloved pro Johannes Radebe were undermarked for last week’s Viennese waltz. Now she’s shaking and shimmying in a flamenco-style orange tie-dyed dress. Fan-ography to start. Colourful Rio carnival feel, rhythmical and wiggly. Putting in lots of basics for Shirley Ballas, aka the Queen Of Latin. Needs more freedom and bounce. Stumble at the midway mark but brilliant musicality and seriously fun times.
Song: La Bamba by Connie Francis. The late New Jersey songstress died aged 87 this summer. This is her version of the Mexican folk song made famous by Ritchie Valens in the 50s and Los Lobos in the 80s.
Alex Kingston and Johannes Radebe.
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Alex Kingston and Johannes Radebe. Photograph: Guy Levy/BBC/PA
Judges’ comments: Anton says “ooh, powerful, like the modern take on an old-fashioned dance, you’re super talented but need refinement”. Craig says “turns a bit up-and-down but loved the passionate idea”. Motsi says “modern interpretation, tuck it in and keep it tight, wildly explosive moments but need smoother connection”. Shirley concludes “all too aggressive, you need a swan-like neck and more beautiful posture”. Sixes and sevens, ahoy?
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27m ago
18.57 BST
Lewis and Katya’s Viennese Waltz
Emmerdale alumnus Lewis Cope finished second on last week’s leaderboard for his firecracker jive. Now he’s slowing it down and deploying his acting skills in a romantic ballroom number. Moody black-and-red styling, dramatic start with some messin’ abaht in a cage, then into hold. This is his first time and it suits him. Technique, control and flow. He’s a natural dancer, leading partner Katya Jones well as they float around the floor. A few fumbles and stumbles but strong finish. Boldly choreographed and a cool take.
Song: Lose Control by Teddy Swims. The 2023 soul ballad by the American artist whose full name is Edwardian Swimmingtrunks (NB: might not be 100% true). This soppy sleeper hit took a record-breaking eight months to climb to the top of the US chart.
Lewis Cope and Katya Jones.
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Lewis Cope and Katya Jones. Photograph: Guy Levy/BBC/PA
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31m ago
18.53 BST
Judges’ scores: 6, 6, 6, 7 for a total of 25 points. Top of the joint scoreboard as it stands. Jimmy had an alter ego called “Hamie” and it worked.
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32m ago
18.52 BST
Judges’ comments: Craig says “love the Cuban style, hips swinging so much they were hitting the front row but a little heavy and your arms need sorting out”. Motsi says “joyous, earthy, enjoyed yourself Latin feeling but work on your leg action”. Shirley says “fabulous Cuban feeling, chemistry, grounded rather than heavy”. Anton concludes “loved it, thank you very much”. Sixes and sevens?
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35m ago
18.49 BST
Jimmy and Lauren’s cha cha cha
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink proved a pleasant surprise last week, changing the narrative of footballers being dancefloor flops by quickstepping to fourth on the leaderboard. Can he keep up the standard after that strong start? Great Cuban setting, plenty of groove and hip action. Hat swapping. Wiggles and shimmies. Decent straight leg action but a little stiff, plodding and hesitant in places. Spicy fun, though.
Song: I Heard it Through the Grapevine by Santa Esmeralda. The French disco group’s cover of Marvin Gaye’s 60s Motown soul classic. For those of a certain vintage, it will forever be associated with Nick Kamen whipping off his Levi 501s in a launderette.
