Roar of the greasepaint next time
Thanks for watching along with me, glittery gang. Our famous five now dance into the quarter-final, the last themed show of the series - yes, it’s Musicals Week, with routines inspired by West End and Broadway hits. Raid that fancy dress box and unleash those jazzhands.
It airs next Saturday at 7.25pm on BBC1. Meet you back here to decide who’s a long-running hit and who’s a box office bomb. In the meantime, you barely need me to tell you: keeeeep dancing! Thank you and a glittery goodnight.
Tonight’s TV tips
Viewers can now flip to Lidl vs Fortnum & Mason: Who Does Christmas Best? on Channel 5 or the final of Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker on Channel 4.
At 9pm, there’s Boat Story on BBC1, I’m A Celebrity on ITV1, The Year The Thames Flooded on Channel 5 or outrageous Cold War football doc Stasi FC on Sky Documentaries.
Film-wise, Bond film No Time to Die is just starting on ITV2, as is festive romcom The Holiday on 5Star. At 10pm, Alan Turing biopic The Imitation Game is on BBC2. Cumberbatch fans assemble.
On the Angela and Carlos partnership, jagadox says: “I like Angela and I can’t help but feel that she has somehow lost her way lately. Is it the choreography/partner? I have a slight sense that Carlos is a bit all about Carlos, but maybe I’m mistaken.”
LekisP says: “Carlos has let Angela down here with the choreography, not enough cha cha cha.”
SeaAndSunshine says: “I have to disagree Michael about Carlos. I don’t think he choreographed well for Angela. I found it interesting that her best dances were the ‘specialty’ ones, choreographed by others. He commented a couple of times about bringing Angela up to his level - no that’s not what you do, you dance at hers and show off what she can do, not what you can do.”
avenueman concludes: “Making Angela dance a cha cha cha to a disco track sort of hobbled her I think. Pity because she’s shown herself to be a great dancer in previous weeks.”
On Angela Scanlon’s exit, tomatopincushion says: “Ooo Angela didn’t look too happy - mouthing ‘wow’ when their names were called. I liked her a lot at the start but feel she’s plateaued.”
OozblumBird says: “Probably the right dance-off but gutted for Angela. Can’t see her beating Layton. At least she has the fantastic Charleston and AT to look back on.”
acanthe adds: “Ahhhh. I’m sorry Angela is in the dance-off. I can’t see that she’ll beat the boys but I really have enjoyed her this year. At least we’ll always have the Argentine Tango!”
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On tonight’s musical guests, jagadox says: “What happened to the sound? I would have liked to hear Sharleen properly.”
neko99: “Friend and me: Sharleen, couldn’t she have made more effort with her outfit? It’s Strictly, ffs!”
Strictlylounging says: “Sharlene does not age! Love a bit of Texas.”
RegWhelk adds: “Sharleen looks bl**dy fantastic. Although the sound man seems to have gone missing again. Saw Texas at Glasto ‘99, memorable.”
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A musical message to our befringed co-host from Bewildered1, who says: “Claudia definitely reads these comments. Thanks for not singing, Claud!”
Oh, I don’t know. She reminds me of a little Loreen.
On dance-off survivor Layton Williams, joanieloves says: “I had a feeling that would happen. Just shows the judges have been keeping him there. Feel sorry for whoever he’s up against - obvs they’ll save him.”
elfwyn says: “Not Layton! Yes, I know he’s supposed to be a ‘professional’, but he’s such fun to watch and this week was a blip on an otherwise spectacular series of dances.”
Soozis says: “I’m not surprised Layton is in the dance off. A frantic-not-smooth American Smooth and a stitch up in the costume department.”
avenueman says: “Layton will be saved by the judges, of course, because even in an off week he’s still one of the best celeb dancers. But this might be an indication that he’s not connecting as quite as well with the Strictly TV audience.
Gothma adds: “I liked that from Layton and Nikita much better second time around.”
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On the judging, mcculloch29 says: “‘The scores, wow, incredibly high.’ Yes, Anton, we did notice.”
avenueman says: “Sorry Shirley but no-one can pull of the Claudia fringe like Claud herself. She didn’t get the Head & Shoulders gig for no reason you know.”
whyisnothingsimple adds: “It does annoy me when Shirley blames the celebrity for the choreography.”
Readers’ verdicts
A round-up of your choreographic comments. That opening number went down well.
KarimaKat says: “Best opening for some time. Nadiya every inch an old-style Hollywood goddess.”
MarkRoche agrees: “Nadiya looking resplendent, we need her back with a partner next year.”
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Another week, another Angela
You wait ages for an Angela to be eliminated and two come along at once. Scanlon follows Rippon out of the contest.
We’re left with three male celebrities and two females in the final five. Will gender symmetry be restored next week?
Another successful series for Carlos
Chinese champion Carlos Gu has enjoyed a strong first two series as a Strictly pro. In his debut year, he got all the way to the final with actress Molly Rainford. Now he reached week 10 with Angela Scanlon. It’s an enviable record.
Angela jokes that Carlos is a “right old bossyboots” and he’s known as a tough taskmaster in training, but many of the pros are. He also forms a strong bond with his partners. He and Scanlon became endearingly close and laughed a lot, softening Carlos’ occasional tendency to make everything about him. Even tonight, his exit speech was longer than hers. Hey, at least he didn’t cry.
He wasn’t afraid to choreograph challenging routines for Angela – see that Swan Lake paso and dramatic Argentine - and it usually paid off. It might be instructive to see how he fares with a less promising partner but for now, Carlos can be pretty satisfied with his two-series stint.
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Angela Scanlon blew too hot and cold
It feels like a case of what might have been for Meath-born TV presenter Angela Scanlon. With her leggy high-energy, sparky personality and Gaelic dancing background, she was hotly tipped before the series began. An Irish version of Stacey Dooley, that was the hope. However, her contest never really got going.
Ultimately, a lack of consistency proved Angela’s undoing. The only celebrity to finish both top and bottom of the standings, she never put together a run of strong routines. Her highlights were her leaderboard-topping Movie Week Charleston, her Swan Lake paso doble and that sizzling Argentine tango in the Tower Ballroom, which notched her first 10s.
In between, though, she struggled with ballroom footwork, Latin flair and breathing through her nerves. There was also that strange mid-series moment when everyone became obsessed with the length of her arms, as if she was Mr Tickle.
Typically for her rollercoaster series, she went from scoring 38 points in Blackpool to the exit door. She was unfortunate to get the technically tricky cha-cha this week. If she’d danced, say, a quickstep, salsa or a Couple’s Choice (which continues to be something of a free pass), she’d probably be safely through. The soundtrack didn’t help, with a disco track not quite suiting the cha-cha’s Cuban rhythms.
As it is, she bows out with an impressive average score of over 30 points - and 10 samples of fabric for her two young daughters, who sweetly collected offcuts of her frock each week for their memory box. At least she’ll be home to open their advent calendars with them this week, rather than sweating in a training room. Steal the odd chocolate, Angela, you’ve earned it.
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Sighs of relief for two boys
Both Layton Williams and Nigel Harman will be counting themselves lucky tonight. There’s been a great deal of grumbling, understandably, about Layton’s prior dance experience. It looks like it could come back to bite him in the home stretch.
A lack of public support meant that the first time he fell from the top spots into mid-table, he was consigned to the dance-off. Shirley Ballas saying she would have sent him home didn’t augur well either. On the upside, Musicals Week should suit him. He has plenty of West End experience, after all. Layton needs to start scoring in the high 30s again to give him a chance of making the final.
Meanwhile, Nigel once again has the public to thank for lifting him clear of danger. His smouldering but stiff rumba left him second from bottom on the scoreboard again. His scores have flatlined around the 33 or 34-point mark. His mistake-strewn routines mean he’s scored a handful of nines but mainly 8s and never a 10. Nigel needs to fix that fast. Again, Musicals Week might come at the right time for the theatre veteran.
Tune, though.
Angela and Carlos’ last dance
As the departing pair trip the light fantastic to Rule The World by Take That, the credits roll and their castmates descend to commiserate. Please stay with us for analysis and reaction.
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Goodbye from Gu too
Angela’s pro partner Carlos Gu returns the compliment: “Angela wanted to do something for herself and set an example to her kids. She’s shown commitment and strength every day. I’m a professional dancer and she works harder than me! Look at her now. I am so proud. I love her sense of humour and we had so much fun everyday. She cracks me up laughing!”
She also did his nails for him ahead of last week’s Harry Styles group dance, beauty fans.
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La Scanlon says her farewells
In her exit interview, Angela Scanlon tells Tess: “It’s been honestly incredible. I’m really gutted that it’s finished now but it has been the most wonderful experience. I have made the best friend in this man. We have had so much fun and he’s such an incredible guy. He has supported me, held me, picked me up and made me laugh so much. I don’t know what to say, it’s been magical, honestly. Thanks to all of those people up there, my husband at home, my two little girls, all my family and friends.”
Sweetly and graciously said.
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Head judge Shirley Ballas disagrees
Well, there’s a surprise. For only the second time this series, Shirley disagrees with her colleagues, saying: “The character of the dance is always important to me, that it’s true to the dance, timing and quality, so and I would have voted for Angela and Carlos”.
Blimey. Some consolation for Angela and a slight slap-down to Layton?
Angela Scanlon is eliminated
There we have it. Angela S becomes this year’s 10th celebrity to depart the dancefloor.
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Anton Du Beke choose to save…
Layton and Nikita, saying “it was quite tense and the closest dance-off we’ve had in the series so far but I saw an error from one of the couples”.
Motsi Mabuse chooses to save…
Layton and Nikita, saying “this was certainly a tough, tough dance off but I based my decision on musicality and balance”.
Craig Revel Horwood chooses to save…
Layton and Nikita, saying theirs was “technically the better dance of the night and the one I enjoyed the most”.
Verdict time
Oof. Tense and tough to call. Probably the tightest dance-off so far this series. Let’s hear from the quartet whose decision counts.
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Angela S takes her turn
At first she was afraid, she was petrified. Angela Scanlon and her dance partner Carlos Gu have another go at their disco cha cha to I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor. But will she live up the lyrics and survive?
The judges said last night that it had high-energy, great attitude and exquisite rotation, but she needed more knee and hip action. The panel awarded it 31 points - three fewer than Layton. Can Angela improve enough to close that gap?
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Layton goes first in dance-off
Layton Williams and his pro partner Nikita Kuzmin reprise their American smooth to It’s Oh So Quiet by Björk.
The judges said last night that the performance value, storytelling and open work were exceptional but it lacked space and smoothness with lumpy footwork.
He scored 34, Layton’s lowest score for seven weeks but still three points more than Angela. Can he go mistake-free to maintain that quality margin?
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The adorable Johannes Radebe says that Annabel Croft “needs to stop shocking me”. He pays testament to how hard she works and how far she’s come.
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Nigel's neighbours news
Nigel reveals to Claud that next door are having a rum night and that he might get an “I survived the rumba” T-shirt. Katya Jones hasn’t got this far in the contest for six years.
“You fight, girl, let’s have it happening,” advises the leopardprint-clad Motsi.
Angela Scanlon faces Layton in dance-off
I suppose that’s no big surprise because she was bottom of the scoreboard. Viewer votes haven’t come to her rescue, meaning Angela S will dance for survival for the first time.
Nigel Harman is safe
Which means it’s either Annabel Croft or Angela Scanlon in the dance-off.
Uh oh, it’s crunch time again
That pesky crimson spotlight is back to reveal who’ll face Layton in the dreaded dance-off.
Motsi Mabuse praises Nigel Harman’s rumba lunges and partnering skills. Anton Du Beke admires Bobby Brazier’s expressive, emotive storytelling.
Shirley Ballas, who seems to have come dressed as Claudia, demonstrates Angela Scanlon’s rotary base.
Motsi and Craig discuss their different opinions on Annabel Croft’s paso doble.
Dance debrief
Ooh baby baby. Push it real good. The famous foursome squeeze onto Claudia’s banquette of bantz for a closer look at last night’s routines. Craig hasn’t held off his 10 this long for four years, apparently.
That confetti will need to be swept up before the dance-off. Always some housework to do, isn’t there?
Spiteri come dancing
Musical performance now from Scottish pop-rockers Texas with their 2001 hit Inner Smile. Vito Coppola and Luba Mushtuk provide the choreographic accompaniment with a fun and rather fabulous American smooth-esque routine.
Texas were formed in mid-80s Glasgow by ex-members of Altered Images and Hipsway, taking their name from cult Wim Wenders film Paris, Texas. They played at Glastonbury and released a greatest hits collection this summer. This song was co-written by Gregg “New Radicals” Alexander, reached number six in the UK singles chart and had an Elvis homage video, with Sharleen Spiteri dressed in a black leather suit. Uh-huh-huh, thankyouverymuch.
She’s brilliantly underdressed for this performance, mind you.
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Ellie’s dad is weepy with pride
Mainly because he loves Vito and they cook together. Recipe is “racy Pete” and gravy is “gaywee”, apparently. Claudia has lost it.
Bobby dances a salsa next week
Up in the impromptu Clauditorium, a relieved Bobby reveals that they’re doing Dirty Dancing. But will he carry a watermelon?
Layton Williams in dance-off for first time
Gasps in the ballroom as the the contest’s highest scored is consigned to the dreaded eliminator. Layton was fourth on the scoreboard and must’ve slipped down into the bottom two due to a lack of public support.
Bobby Brazier is a quarter-finalist
Dianne Buswell is endearingly delighted. Also through is Ellie Leach, thankfully.Phew.
Red light spells danger
The dreaded scarlet spotlight of doom is upon us. Time to find out who has qualified for the quarter-final and who must dance again for survival.
Last night’s live show recapped
Back from Blackpool in the familiar ballroom, it was a tense and topsy-turvy night, with the judges clamping down on technical details.
Ellie and Vito nearly locked lips in their electrifying Argentine tango. Bobby Brazier made us blub with a Couple’s Choice dedicated to his late mother, reality star Jade Goody.
Annabel Croft was a bullfighting bumblebee. Nigel Harman channelled Sir Patrick Of Swayze. Layton Williams had the cheek to shush Craig. Angela Scanlon reached for the Elnett extra-firm hold before her disco cha-cha.
Frockwatch
Here’s our hostess with the mostesses, so let’s run the rule over their finery. Tess Daly is in a black high-necked top and trousers. Claudia Winkleman in black velvet dress with waist buttons. Similar styling so let’s call it a well-dressed draw.
Lauren Oakley looking fab-ew-lous in a pair of specs. Nadiya channeling Cameron Diaz in The Mask. Guilty!
Well, this is lots of fun. Ginger Neil and Giovanni look shady to me.
Let’s play dance detective
We kick off with a group number from the Strictly professionals. It’s Hollywood glam in style and whodunit-themed.
Nadiya Bychkova plays a silver screen siren whose diamond necklace has been stolen. Kai Widdrington plays the hard-boiled gumshoe. Various suspects are under the stylised spotlight. Golden age and jazzy with strong storytelling, twists and turns.
But who’s the culprit? I suspect Craig. He’s probably stashed it somewhere with his 10 paddle.
And we’re off!
Cue clap-along credits. But which of these pairs will soon be sent home in a sparkly minicab?
Stock up on refreshments and take your sofa seats. We’re about to go back to the Elstree Studios ballroom…
It's a liveblog baby!
Congratulations to Strictlygirl06, who says: “Hello all. It’s lovely to see you all again. Very exciting news from my end. Baby 06 arrived earlier today and I’m reading this sitting in the hospital. Personally I think Angela S should go this week. She is one of my favourites but definitely one of the weaker dancers left.”
Thanks, Strictlygirl06. Good to see you’ve started the sparkly indoctrination early.
Still no sighting of Craig’s perfect 10
We’re just three weeks from the grand final but Craig Revel Horwood still hasn’t raised his maximum score paddle. He’s a big musical theatre man, of course, so I wonder if we’ll see it next Saturday?
We got five 10s last night - two apiece from Anton and Shirley, plus one from Motsi. The highest score from Craig was a nine for Ellie Leach. Otherwise it was eights all round from the panto villain judge, barring a seven for Angela S. Craig’s marking remains the most objective and reliable, in my book.
A mere five minutes until the glitterball starts spinning…
Planet Earth III drawing to a close on BBC1 right now. An episode about wildlife’s battle to survive in a world of extremes. And I don’t mean the gulf between Craig and Anton.
It’s 10 minutes before we go from Arctic wolves to American smooths, from snow leopards to slow foxtrots and from African elephants to Argentine elegance…
From Amsterdam to Montreal
Last night, we heard from reader Liesbeth in the Dutch capital. Today’s international correspondent is Iain from Canada, who emails:
“Thanks for your liveblogging. I really appreciate it, since the BBC won’t let us watch the show online from Canada. I enjoyed watching Strictly when visiting a friend in the UK and she keeps me up to date. I was delighted to discover your blog to catch up on the judges’ comments and scores, with the added benefit of your insights.
Although letting us see the whole show in Canada seems to be a no-no because of rights issues, the BBC does let us watch the individual dances as clips posted online after the show airs. Today was the first day I read your blog live, so I watched the dances, then went back to your blog for the comments and scores. It looks like that’s how I’ll be spending my Saturday and Sunday afternoons until the series ends! Thanks again. and keep blogging.”
Our pleasure, Iain. Delighted to have you joining us from 3000 miles away!
Texas comes to Borehamwood
Tonight’s musical guests are Scottish rockers Texas. They don’t want a lover, they just need a friend.
Gird your glittery loins. It’s just 20 minutes until sequin o’clock…
Another Angela in dance-off danger
Coming into this weekend, bookmakers were divided over who was favourite for elimination, but Angela Scanlon and Annabel Croft were the main names in the frame.
They proceeded to meet contrasting fortunes on the dancefloor. Angela S finished bottom of the leaderboard after her wobbly cha cha cha, while Annabel’s power-packed paso doble scored her first 10 and took her into third position.
Instead it was Nigel Harman and Layton Williams who ended up in the bottom half of the table. Will viewer votes come to their rescue? Might we see a dance-off shocker? It’s 25 minutes until showtime…
Who will miss out on Musicals Week?
Somebody is about to be dumped from the all-singing, all-dancing Strictly cast. Good evening and welcome to the week 10 results show of Strictly Come Dancing 2023. I’m Michael, your Sunday night cyber-dance partner. Please watch along with me as one couple misses out on the musicals-themed quarter-final.
After last night’s live show, back from Blackpool and restored to the Elstree Studios ballroom, our half-dozen hoofers will be whittled down to a famous five. The judges’ scores have been combined with viewer votes and tonight, the bottom two will fight for survival in the dreaded dance-off. So who might not dance into December?
Angela Scanlon was left propping up the leaderboard, with Nigel Harman second from bottom for the second week running. But will voting viewers agree with the panel? If not, the likes of Annabel Croft and even Layton Williams could come into contention after a rare off-night.
It’s showtime at 7.20pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 6.50pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and lightly spiced snark. So get cosy on this chilly Sunday evening and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As ever, I’d love to hear your thoughts too. You can tweet me @michaelhogan, email me at michael.hogan.freelance@guardian.co.uk and the comments section below is open for sparkly chit-chat. I’ll flick and kick my way down there whenever possible to catch up on the chat.
The West End and Broadway beckon for all but one couple. Nearly time to staaaaaart eliminating!
Thank you and goodnight
That concludes Saturday’s liveblog but please feel free to carry on commenting, my sequin-spangled pals.
Meet you back here tomorrow for what could be a tense results show. It airs at 7.20pm Sunday on BBC1, complete with a Hollywood whodunit-themed group dance and a performance from Texas.
I’ll reopen the blog at 6.50pm for build-up, so please rejoin me then. In the meantime, I’m @michaelhogan on Twitter, so feel free to drop in and say hello.
Thanks for watching along with me. See you tomorrow but in the meantime, you know what to do: keeeeeep dancing!
This comment from mimig feels fitting as the liveblog draws to a close:
“Oh lads, isn’t it so lovely? Aren’t we so lucky? Haven’t I already ‘completed’ a Marlborough SauvB?? Best show on the telly-box, love you all, Mwah x x x”
Back atcha, mimig. You're a lovely bunch of lads.
Tonight’s TV tips
TV viewers can now flip to BBC2 for Take That night or to Channel 5 for Doctor Who: 60 Years Of Secrets & Scandals for juicy Tardis tales. Just be careful where you put that sonic screwdriver.
Film-wise, you’re spoilt for choice right now with The Hangover just starting on 5Star, The Terminator on 5Action or romcom While You Were Sleeping on ITV. At 10pm, Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs is on Dave. Those of a sensitive disposition when it comes to ear removal, look away now.
Liveblog goes Dutch
A lovely email just in from Liesbeth in the Netherlands, who sent a snap of her TV/laptop/snack situation which I’m not quite sure how to paste in here (my tech bad):
“Just wanted to share my setup for the Strictly bonanza. Laptop on table nearby for your liveblog and TV moved closer on chair (it’s not one of those humongous big screens). Not pictured: pot of tea and those lovely Lindor chocolate balls. I’m watching alone so it’s lovely to have the company of your blog. Have fun everyone! Greetings from Amsterdam!”
Greetings from the UK to you, Liesbeth. What’s Dutch for keep dancing?
Finally, some thoughts from commenters on Ellie Leach’s show-closing Argentine tango.
Rufusonly says: “Saved the best for last. That was utterly incredible. The judges are criticising but Anton gives 10s for crap and then misunderstands that this was a different form of tango. Technically exquisite.”
pretentiouspenguin says: “The judges really baffle me. Why are they so underwhelmed? I thought Ellie and Vito’s dance was perfect and one of the best dances I’ve seen on Strictly in a while.”
TallulahBankead concludes: “I like how Ellie climbed Vito like a little mountain goat.”
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The judging felt a bit all over the place tonight and ButterflyBlu agrees: “Oh, Anton. He’s one of those people afraid to provide honest constructive critiquing in case he hurts the celebs’ feelings but forgetting it’s a dance competition that requires just that. His over marking is bordering on being condescending now.”
On Bobby Brazier, Yodaknowsall says: “Beautiful dance from Bobby. He just felt every word and movement. Well done.”
gliese adds: “Loved Kate Bush’s original. Not sure about Dianne’s let’s have a sit down on his shoulder bit. But yes - bless em both.”
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On Angela Scanlon’s cha cha, IvanTiger says: “Hmmm. Like Angela but Carlos was mostly dancing around her. No idea why as she can dance well.
gliese sats: “Angela is so cool and clipped but lacked that sultry grooviness required of dances like that.”
Aine18 adds: “I agree with Craig - Angela’s hips didn‘t move enough for a cha cha. I love her attitude today, though.”
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Nigel Harman’s rumba divided opinion. YodaknowsAll says: “What a rumba from Nigel. Great hips and partnering with Katya.”
EmmyHarb says: “Katya’s dress looks as if it is caught in her knickers.”
Gardener_Madihc says: “That dance from Nigel has finally stopped me bouncing with excitement from Doctor Who. Didn’t like.”
ButterflyBlu says: “Phew! Thank god our Nige got positive comments this week. He looked so forlorn last week.”
TallulahBankhead adds: “That dress looked a bit old-Brentford-Nylons-bedsheet on It Takes Two. Slightly less so as worn by Katya, but I doubt it’d get first place in the transformation round of the Sewing Bee.”
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Annabel Croft’s paso doble went down much better with readers. Lidoswimmer says: “Wow. Proper paso with proper music. Annabel is a woman transformed!”
avenueman says: “I love how Annabel has really come on in leaps and bounds since her tentative start. She won’t win, probably, but that almost doesn’t matter. Her confidence and performance commitment has just blossomed. Well done Johannes and the sometimes transformative process of Strictly.”
Rufusonly says: “Traditional paso from Annabel and no wasted time. Astonishing improvement. Craig’s spouting rubbish as I write (unusually) because I loved the ‘performance’ and thought she carried it off. Best dance so far.”
emilycatnaps adds: “Can someone check on Pudsey now he’s no longer needed for Children in Need? I’m worried for his safety after seeing Annabel’s skirt. I fear the Gillster has despatched him for extra material for tonight’s costume.”
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Readers’ verdicts
Time for a round-up of your comments.
On Layton and Nikita’s American smooth, Vicc says: “I thoroughly enjoyed that from L&N but don’t think the music was the right choice. As a result, they danced to the music, rather than doing a more traditional American smooth.”
joanieloves adds: “So, a Couples Choice version of an American Smooth? Can it be given 10s if it’s not a ‘proper’ dance??”
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Buckle up, it’s the Golden Glitterballs
Let’s open some gold lamé envelopes. Here are this week’s gong recipients…
Best dance: Bobby Brazier’s delivered the emotional gut-punch, sure, but Ellie Leach’s had the wow factor.
Worst dance: Angela Scanlon’s cha cha, I’m afraid. Only got 31 points but even that felt like over-marking.
Best music choice: That Latin-flavoured arrangement of Bills, Bills, Bills by Destiny’s Child.
Worst music choice: The slightly strained Celine Dion honkathon.
Best outfit: Ellie Leach’s black-and-red geometric Argentine tango frock was fierce.
Worst outfit: Katya’s grey curtains. Ended a fine run of frockular form for the Russian-born firecracker.
Best judges’ comment: When random-scoring Anton stood up to do some rumba hip-thrusting, Craig drawled “Nobody needs to see that.”
Worst VT: Angela Scanlon’s slightly awkward girls’ night out. Bobby’s was genuinely moving.
Best Claudia quip: A quiet night for Winkle wit but the lack of her trademark fringe seemed to stun the tabloids. Let’s call it a coiffure quip. A tonsorial trolling.
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Angela Scanlon and Nigel Harman in dance-off danger
So Ellie Leach finishes top of the leaderboard, with Bobby Brazier in second. The judges’ scores will now be combined with the public vote and the bottom two will hoof for survival in Sunday’s dance-off.
Bottom-placed Angela Scanlon will be fearing that red light of doom but who could she face? It might be an anxious wait for Nigel Harman and even Layton Williams.
Credits roll
“Do me the honour.” Tess and Claud swayingly tell us to “Keeeeeep dancing!”. As the closing credits roll, please stay with us for analysis, reaction and a round-up of your comments.
Voting is… open!
The voting lines are announced as open and the usual prop-heavy mayhem ensues. Inflatable phones, rainbows, sunglasses, glitterballs, pom-poms, Craig Revel Horwood in deely-boppers. What more could we want? A recap of tonight’s six dances on-screen now.
Judges’ scores: 9, 10, 10, 9 for a total of 38 points. Top of the pops. “Eat me with your eyes,” was Vito’s instruction apparently *fans self*
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Judges’ comments for Ellie and Vito: Anton says “clean, quick but maybe lacked a bit of intensity”. Craig says “it lacked intimacy, A-frame missing but incredible, clean as a whistle, brilliant lifts”. Motsi says “very special, end of story”. Motsi concludes “controlled footwork, difficult moves but outstanding focus”. I thought it was better than those comments. Nines a-coming?
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Ellie and Vito’s Argentine tango
The last two Argentine tangos, by Angela S and Layton, have scored six 10s between them. No pressure. Ellie looking fabulously fiery in a red-and-black slashed geometric dress and getting into character with chair-ography to open. Being back in the smaller ballroom suits this intimate dance. Intense and passionate, very close hold, precise footwork and sizzling mood. Tom “Loki” Hiddleston said he was a fan of Ellie’s dancing this week. This is why. She walks up him in a somehow hot way. Gorgeous spins and sweeps. Utterly brilliant. Lingering embrace to end. Best dance of the night by far for me.
Song: Bills, Bills Bills by Destiny’s Child. After last week’s Girls Aloud number, it’s the second girl group banger in a row for Ellie. The 1999 hit’s video was filming in a beauty salon as a tribute to Beyoncé’s beautician mum Tina, who owned a chain of hair salons and was the band’s stylist in their early days.
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Judges’ scores: 8, 9, 10, 10 for a total of 37 points. Top of the leaderboard with once dance to go.
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Judges’ comments for Bobby and Dianne: an emotional Shirley says “danced from the heart, by far your best number, pure movement through your body”. Anton says “you spoke without words, you’re a beautiful young man”. Craig says “hand shaping needs sorting out, use your torso more but the storytelling was sublime, effective, clear and stunning”. Motsi concludes “transcends technicalities, you carried a beautiful message and capture the song”.
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Bobby and Dianne’s Couple’s Choice
As last week’s dance-off survivors bid to bounce back, this could be a weepy one. It’s a routine dedicated to his late mother - reality TV star Jade Goody, who died from cervical cancer aged just 27 – portraying Bobby’s growth from losing her in boyhood. And also hailing his lovely dad Jeff. Shadow dance to start, then into some barefoot wafting. It’s contemporary fusion with modern ballroom touches. Emotional storytelling as you’d expect. A heartfelt, almost fairytale feel. The style of dance suits him. Timing off at times and a little flat-footed in sections but lovely lifts and emotional as all hell. Hell of a powerful ending. I’m welling up.
Song: This Woman’s Work by Maxwell. It’s the R&B artist’s Kate Bush cover, originally performed for MTV Unplugged. The weepy 1988 original was about childbirth and written for John Hughes-directed romcom She’s Having A Baby. Bush directed the video herself and it starred Tom “Lord Percy/Captain Darling” Tim McInnerny.
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Judges’ scores: 7, 7, 8, 9 (really?) for a total of 31 points. Bottom so far. Dance-off danger.
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Judges’ comments for Angela S and Carlos: Motsi says “I wanted more knee action and looser hips, but energy off the roof”. Shirley says “attitude, exquisite rotation, straight leg action but get your body weight over your feet”. Anton says “nervous start but then nailed it”. Craig concludes “lacked hip action, balance issues, tight shoulders but lovely straight legs and loved the disco stuff”. Eights, do we reckon?
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Angela S and Carlos’ cha cha cha
Their Argentine tango sizzled last week in the Tower Ballroom, notching La Scanlon’s first 10s. Three of them, to be precise, which must be a confidence builder. Can they maintain that standard? They might need to, because they’re one of bookies’ top tips for the exit this week. Big hair, looking fab, but not sure about the miming. It’s high-energy, sparkly and spicy. Sprinkler step and disco vibes. She’s been working hard on her straight legs but is missing those figure-of-eight hips. Sharp twists, turns and rhythmic action, but a tad awkward at times.
Song: I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor. This disco anthem and karaoke classic topped the UK singles chart in 1979. It was originally a B-side, hence being recorded in just 35 minutes. Gaynor was wearing a back brace as she sang it, having just had surgery due to a fall at a concert. It soundtracked Georgia May Foote and Giovanni Pernice’s cha-cha in the 2015 semi-final.
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Judges’ scores: 8, 9, 9, 10 (oh Anton) for a total of 36 points. Top at the halfway point. Her highest and her first 10.
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Judges’ comments for Annabel and Jojo: Craig says “lacked fire and lost intent, clean, controlled and commanding but performance suffered”. Motsi says “used the free leg well, less is more, darling”. Shirley says “pure class, full-on and focused, some of the best paso footwork I’ve seen, fantastic”. Anton makes some random noises and concludes “you’ve built week on week, brilliant” and gives her a one-man standing ovation. Well. Seven or eight from Craig, nines elsewhere?
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Annabel and Jojo’s paso doble
She matched her top score of 35 points last week. Annabel Croft is underestimated and underrated but she always seems to deliver, having formed a gorgeous partnership with pro Johannes Radebe. Improving steadily, could she be a dark horse for the final? Looking the señorita in a yellow-and-black polka dot frock. Running, jumping lift to begin. Slow start. Moody, dramatic and passionate. Upright shape, elbows out. Flamenco foot stamps and swishy skirt-ography. She’s slid around on the floor as the cape. A few footwork issues and lacking some curve but superb mood and high kicks. Olé! Goes down a storm in the studio.
Song: España Cañi by Pascual Marquina Narro. A traditional Spanish tune for a traditional paso. It was written in the 1920s and translates as “Spanish Gypsy”.
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Judges’ scores: 8, 8, 8, 9 for a total of 33 points. One below Layton.
Judges’ comments for Nigel and Katya: Anton says “well-danced, congratulations, classic jazz styling, super-duper”. Craig says “I wanted more hip action but loved the routine, controlled, gaw-jus arms”. Motsi says “lacked basic steps but great partnering and connection”. Shirley concludes “congratulations on a great routine Katya, loved your arms and breathing in your body, you did very well”. Eights and nines?
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Nigel and Katya’s rumba
Nigel Harman was annoyed with himself in Blackpool after making mistakes during that showbizzy American smooth. Can he make amends and get over the disappointment? The rumba is slow, exposing and notoriously tricky for celebrity males. Tear-jerking storytelling about a man who has lost his partner and dances with her spirit - “a bit like Ghost without the pottery”, said Nigel this week. It’s staged among grey drapes in silvery outfits and the wind machine is deployed. Earthy, ethereal and emotional. Needs fluidity and flow, so he’s got keep those Patrick Swayze hips moving. A lot of walking around and pose-striking for me but it got into gear eventually. Great soppy storytelling but lacked a little sexy rumba-ness.
Song: It’s All Coming Back To Me Now by Celine Dion. The melodramatic 1996 power ballad was written by Jim Steinman, inspired by Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights. It was offered to Bonnie Tyler and Meat Loaf was keen to record it but Steinman saw it as “a woman’s song”. Andrew Lloyd Webber once told Steinman it was “the greatest love song ever written”. Steady on, Lord LW.
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David Tennant on the Ts & Cs
Back to the balcony this week after Blackpool’s improvised “corner behind a glittery curtain” Clauditorium but the Ts&Cs are on VT – with good reason. The actual Doctor is this week’s VIP guest, reading out the voting smallprint. He’s got a Tardis mug and everything. Allons-y, Alonso!
Judges’ scores: 8, 9, 8, 9 for a total of 34 points. His lowest for six weeks.
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Judges’ comments for Layton and Nikita: Shirley says “performance excellent but not smooth enough and lacked space, footwork lumpy, not your best”. Anton says “open work exceptional, agree it was lumpy but your line had improved”. Craig says “gapping, sticky-out bottom but loved the highlights and syncopated accents”. Motsi concludes “loved the fusion and storytelling, excellent transitions”. Eights and a nine from Motsi, do we think?
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Layton and Nikita’s American smooth
They scored a near-perfect 39 points for the third time last week. Can they go one better? They still haven’t scored a 10 for a ballroom dance. Layton is in a hot pink waistcoat with wide leg culottes. Wacky opening, then into hold. The choreography combines waltz, foxtrot and jazz. Layton has been working hard on his footwork and smooth transitions. Freedom in the solo sections but they need to fly flat in hold. High kicks. Confetti-filled balloon trick. Slightly ahead of the beat at times but cute, as hell and fab-ew-lous. They cheekily shush Craig at the end, which is… courageous.
Song: It’s Oh So Quiet by Björk. The 1940s German jazz song was covered by the Icelandic pop pixie in 1995 and became her biggest hit. Spike Jonze directed the video in the style of a Hollywood Technicolor musical and this routine is channelling that exuberant mood. But can it match actress Rebecca Front’s legendary version on Let’s Dance for Comic Relief in 2011?
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Our Strictly stars™
Our six pro-celebrity couples are introduced. Not too much raiding of the fancy dress box this week. Annabel Croft in trad paso garb. Ellie Leach looking slinky.
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Hola the judges
The paddle-raising quartet arrive. Motsi Mabuse in neon green. Shirley Ballas in slightly ageing blue. The boys in tuxes as per.
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Frockwatch
Here come our hosts, who’ve remembered to remove their Blackpool kiss-me-quick hats and sparkly stetsons. Tess Daly is sporting a lobster-coloured sparkly. halter-necked. asymmetric frock. Claudia Winkleman is in a simple red drape-sleeved full-length number with tied-back hair and sublime natural make-up. Claudia wins.
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Cue clap-along credits
Nine down, six remain. Which of these pairs will be next to bite the glittery dust?
And we’re off!
Roll the industry standard VT to crank up the drama.
It’s bigger on the inside than the outside. Yes, we’re about to go over live to Elstree Studios…
Shortest show of the series
Tonight’s show is a tight and tidy 60 minutes in duration, as is next week’s. The semi-final runs longer, with two dancers per couple, while the final is three dances per pair.
So enjoy the snappiest live show of the contest. Five minutes until sparkle time…
Oh hi Elstree, we’ve missed you
After last week’s Blackpool extravaganza, it’s somewhat back to basics tonight. A return to the smaller Elstree Studios ballroom floor, no extra dancers and the spotlight firmly focused on our last six couples. Not long now until sequin o’clock…
No Alan Carr’s Numberwang or The Weakest Link as we wait this week. Instead on BBC1, it’s the first of three eagerly awaited Doctor Who specials, with Russell T Davies, David Tennant and Catherine Tate all returning to the sci-fi franchise for its 60th anniversary. Meep indeed.
I’m saving it to watch later, so no timey-wimey, wibbly-wobbly spoilers please. A mere 10 minutes to go now…
Last weekend in summary
Everyone raised their game for Blackpool Tower Ballroom, throwing the kitchen sink and extra dancers at their routines. Ellie Leach and Layton Williams ended up tied at the top of the leaderboard with a near-perfect 39 points apiece.
Down the bottom, it was third time unlucky for Angela Rippon, who was eliminated after dance-off defeat to Bobby Brazier. Now we’ve done our homework, it’s just 15 minutes until the glitterball starts spinning….
Eyes down and dabbers poised, it’s Strictly bingo
Tick it off when it happens on-screen! Take a drink for each you spot! Wake up tomorrow with a vague sense of dread and regret! Here’s your 10-point spotter’s guide:
Over-excited pros chant “40! 40!” after Layton or Ellie’s dance
Claudia lures the adorable Vito Coppola into one of his trademark babbling speeches on the balcony
Shot of Bobby’s dad Jeff Brazier blubbing in the studio audience
Pantomime boos whenever Craig raises his “9” paddle
Annabel Croft pays fond tribute to Jojo, who has something in his eye
Nigel Harman gets compared to Patrick Swayze
Angela S looks coolly deadpan as Carlos Gu comes over all weepy
Layton gets told off for his ballroom footwork
Craig mentions “Spanish line” or “spatulistic hands”
Shirley Ballas in tears after Bobby’s dance and calls him “young man” like a proud auntie
On your dance cards tonight
Lots of Latin and freestyle on tonight’s choreographic menu. Dance delights include a rumba from Nigel Harman, an Argentine tango from Ellie Leach, a paso doble from Annabel Croft and an emotive Couple’s Choice from Bobby Brazier.
It’s 20 minutes until that ba-ba-da theme tune…
A playlist of pop divas
This week’s song selection is seriously female-dominated and full of bangers. We’ll be treated to Destiny’s Child, Celine Dion, Gloria Gaynor, Kate Bush and Björk. Now there’s a fantasy festival bill.
It’s 25 minutes until the sparkly curtain comes up…
Who’s at risk this week?
For the first time this series, bookmakers are divided over who is favourite for elimination. Angela Scanlon is some pundits’ prediction for the exit, despite scoring a personal best of 38 points last week.
Annabel Croft has the lowest average score and is also tipped, while Bobby Brazier is the only one of our six remaining celebrities to have been in the bottom two.
Will it be one of this trio? Or might mistake-prone Nigel Harman be under pressure too? Less than half an hour until showtime…
Homecoming show for our hoofing half-dozen
Who will suffer a Blackpool hangover? Did everyone manage to catch the minibus back down the M6? Will they still be feeling queasy from the patented Blackpool diet of fish, chips, rock, Flake 99s, candy floss and late-night cocktails?
Good evening and welcome to week 10 of Strictly Come Dancing 2023. I’m Michael, your virtual dance partner for tonight’s live show. I’d love you to watch along with me as our surviving six couples return to the familiar Elstree Studios ballroom, bidding to get safely through to next week’s musicals-themed quarter-final.
It’s showtime at 7.30pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 7pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and glitter-dusted gags. So line up your Saturday night snacks and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As ever, I’d love to hear from you too. You can tweet me @michaelhogan, email me michael.hogan.freelance@guardian.co.uk and the comments section below is at your dance disposal. I’ll rumba-walk down there every now and again to see what you’re all saying.
Will Ellie Leach and Layton Williams remain locked at the top of the leaderboard? Will Craig Revel Horwood finally dust off his lesser-spotted 10 paddle? Will anyone have unidentified drinking injuries from the Blackpool festivities?
It’s nearly time to staaaaaart quarter-final qualifying!
