Three couples have been dealt a tough blow just hours before the next live instalment of Strictly Come Dancing.
With an array of dances from a Time Warp jive to an Addams Family-themed American Smooth, the remaining 11 pairs are gearing up for a spooktacular Halloween Week on Saturday (October 26) evening.
Yet, prospects seem grim for some couples after the Friday panel on the companion programme It Takes Two forecasted their exit as the next duo to leave the dance floor.
Chatting with host Fleur East, panellists Jordan North, Simon Rimmer, and Dilly Carter each disclosed their thoughts on which couple might face peril this weekend.
Dilly expressed her belief that Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu might be making their final bow, Simon anticipated Dr Punam Krishan and Gorka Marquez’s departure, while Jordan suggested JB Gill and Amy Dowdan could be in jeopardy, reports the Mirror.
The previous week witnessed the elimination of football legend Paul Merson and his dance partner Karen Hauer, who found themselves up against JLS star JB and pro Amy in the feared Strictly dance-off.
Despite their efforts, Paul and Karen’s Samba to Rose Royce’s ‘Car Wash’ failed to impress, earning a meagre 19 points out of 40 from the judges and leading to their departure.
Before taking his final steps off the stage, Paul couldn’t help but make a parting dig at Tottenham, Arsenal’s arch-rivals. Reflecting on his stint in the competition, he shared with host Tess Daly: “It’s been really good.”
Speaking with great enthusiasm about his experience, one participant urged: “For anybody I talk to, I would say you’ve got to go on this show. It’s amazing – everybody,” and humorously added, “There’s a Tottenham fan over there called Lincoln and even he’s nice! “.
His commendation for his dance partner Karen was no less fervent: “It’s been amazing, honestly, amazing. I loved every minute of it, I’ve had a great teacher. She’s been amazing, absolutely amazing and I couldn’t wish for a better coach. I’ve loved every minute of it. I can dance now – I’ve won because I can dance, I couldn’t dance before and I can half dance now. It’s a bonus, absolute bonus.”
Karen reciprocated the praise, acknowledging her partner’s commitment and progress throughout Strictly. She said warmly: “Absolutely, you’ve been a joy. I’ve never giggled this much. My abs are really tight now.”
She continued with heartfelt words: “I am so proud of you. Every week you have showed up, you have improved. You’re what Strictly is about and I want to thank you for bringing such joy and just showing everyone that it is possible with a little bit of work and lots of giggles.”
Strictly: It Takes Two airs weeknights on BBC Two at 6.30pm