Strictly Come Dancing returned tonight (Saturday, October 1) for the second live show of its latest series. And tonight's instalment marked the moment when the pressure on the contestants ramps up - as viewers get the chance to vote on the performances for the first time, in the process deciding which couple ends up in the dance-off.
Of course, the judges' scores and final verdicts still play a huge part too. But one of those judges - Shirley Ballas - added to the proceedings in an unexpected way tonight with an awkward moment that prompted some sympathetic amusement among Strictly fans.
It came at the beginning of the BBC show after head judge Shirley had descended the stairs in the studio and taken her seat along with her fellow judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke. Co-host Tess Daly then turned to Shirley, asking: "It's a big night tonight, isn't it, Shirley? It's the first public vote of 2022."
Shirley, who appeared to be preoccupied with rearranging some items on the desk in front of her, did not respond and after a few seconds of silence said: "Well, hello - how are you all?"
She then clarified: "First of all - I just made my seat by the skin of my teeth but anyway."
Tess continued by repeating her statement about the first public vote, and Shirley responded: "It is, and I just want to say to all the people at home, who are experts, please please vote, I don't want to really send anybody home, please do it for us."
Viewers didn't fail to spot what had happened and took to Twitter to comment. Heather @iamheatherh said: "Shirley not having a clue what is going on is truly iconic."
Tricia Webb @tishcavy said: "I really think @ShirleyBallas should have a damehood" while Megan Eve @meganevekilv tweeted: "Shirley is me when anyone asks me anything in group meetings."
Alexia Alex05923602 was left cringing, writing: "That was so awkward help" while lil strictly era!! @swift1emal1k posted: "Shirley’s delayed response is me 24/7."
Claire Norman @clairenorman30 observed "Well that wasn’t awkward" and Sara @Mabel_Mouse_ asked: "Did Shirley forget she was on the telly?"
