Normal service resumed next weekend
Thanks for watching along with me, glitter gang. Our 13 pro-celebrity pairs puff their cheeks with relief and now dance onto next weekend’s mercifully un-themed live show.
It airs next Saturday at the slightly later time of 6.30pm on BBC1. Meet you back here for more bloggery-pokery.
In the meantime, it almost goes without saying: keeeeeeep dancing! Goodnight and have a lovely week.
Sebnose says: “M&S website crashes under demand for ‘House suits’.” I’ll certainly be joining that search, Sebnose.
And wtrukus adds: “I want Krishnan to keep that make-up on all the time. I’ll be so disappointed next time I see him.”
Updated
Gazzaroo notes: “Steered well clear of judges discussing that absurd 10. Pretend it never happened.”
Toeturnedin says: “I’ve said it before .and I’ll say it again. The world needs more Johannes.”
Updated
More fancy dress feedback. Lilitia says: “‘The costume guys always get it right,’ says Eddie. Normally I’d agree but have you seen Kai this week!?”
wtrukus adds: “Is Adam Mario in real life? He seems so natural like that.”
Updated
On tonight’s musical gueat, Pancake01 says: “Ooh, like the song, can hear the words, the dancing is fab. Nikita and Nadiya looking hot. Can we have this every Sunday please?”
TiggyStardust adds: “Never heard of Madison Beer. Texted youngest Tiggy who is avoiding me cos of Covid plague. She informs me MB is more of an influencer than a singer. Thought I would share this info in case you too were sitting at home thinking who and feeling old.”
Updated
Readers’ verdicts
A swift vox pop of your comments. On the Barbie group number, emilyscatnaps says: “I was just wondering who was going to be Allan. Gorka makes a mighty fine Ken - I bet he beaches with the best of them.”
On Zara and Graz being in the dance-off, avenueman says: “Poor Graziano. Not only has he been made up to look like a refugee from the dreadful Cats movie but now he’s in the dance off.”
joanieloves adds: “Don’t want to lose Graz or Gorks. The curse of Cats and bad costumes.”
Updated
Tonight’s other TV treats
Elsewhere on telly tonight, you can currently choose between cute new wildlife series Big Little Journeys on BBC2 or the mighty Mel Giedroyc hosting a new series of Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker on Channel 4.
The big news at 9pm is the return of reality behemoth Big Brother on ITV1 and ITV2. Film-wise - well, it is Movie Week - the highlight is Paul Thomas Anderson’s lovely 70s-set romcom Licorice Pizza at 10.30pm on BBC2.
Gorka’s fluctuating fortunes
Gorka Márquez becomes this year’s second Strictly professional to bow out. He might be a three-time finalist but it seems to be feast or famine for the Bilbao-born pro.
As commenter pubbore sagely pointed out last night: “Gorka’s results on Strictly go 14th, 2nd, 13th, 2nd, 14th, 2nd. He’s a good match for a celeb with talent, but doesn’t seem to have the Oti/Katya/KFG skill for elevating a limited partner.”
That’s Kevin From Grimsby, of course, not the Kind Friendly Giant. And those Gorka Gosling partners in chronological order, FYI, were Tameka Empson, Alexandra Burke, Katie Piper, Maisie Smith, Katie McGlynn and Helen Skelton. Hey, at least if the pattern continues, he’s due a finalist next year.
Updated
Sighs of relief from three boys
Paralympian Jody Cundy was lifted clear of the bottom two by the public vote and I’m glad he gets at least one more week in the contest. He had a 4am hospital dash this week when his leg became badly infected and swollen, meaning he couldn’t get his prosthesis on for two days and missed two training days. Jody deserves another shot and a dance-off could have been painful.
Two actors also dodged a dance-off bullet. Dipping worryingly after a strong start to the series, Nigel Harman scored the same as Zara and Adam Thomas just one point more, so they’ll both be brow-mopping too. This trio and Zara need to raise their glitterball game next week.
Updated
Nikita deserved to depart
As soon as she was consigned to her second dance-off in a row, it felt like BBC Asian Network breakfast presenter Nikita Kanda was doomed. With scores of 18, 18 and 21, she’s struggled with nerves on the dancefloor and admitted that near-elimination last week had further eroded her confidence. The judges were reduced to spouting “keep going” platitudes.
As arguably the line-up’s least famous name, she didn’t have enough of a fanbase to mobilise for the public vote. Still, she was an effervescent presence who has made friends and raised her profile. She now has her own Wikipedia entry, which she didn’t a month ago. Those early starts for her day job, followed by dance training, must have been exhausting.
And at least there’s only Nikita left in the contest now - Ukrainian pro Nikita Kuzmin, partner of Layton Williams - making it less confusing. Every cloud…
Updated
Nikita and Gorka’s last dance
As Team Gorkita trip the light fantastic one last time to the strains of (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life from Dirty Dancing – a total 1987 banger – the credits roll and the other couples crowd in for “glad it’s not me” cuddles.
Please stay with us for analysis and reaction. I carried a watermelon.
Gorka is a proud corker
Her pro partner Gorka Márquez returns the compliment: “I am beyond proud of her. For someone that doesn’t have any dance or performance experience, to come on this show and dance in front of millions of people for three weeks, it’s incredible. You have never let me down. This show teaches you so many things about yourself that you can take with you and I take incredible memories. I’ve never laughed so much in three weeks than I did with you.” Sweetly said.
Nikita’s exit speech
In her farewell interview, a touchingly tearful Nikita Kanda tells Tess: “I don’t want to leave yet. I feel like I’ve let him down. I’ve had the best time and I love all my Strictly family, I’m going to miss you all. This has been a dream come true. I’m so grateful but I’ve got to say the biggest thank you to Gorka. He has been the biggest support and I’ve had the best time ever.”
Updated
Head judge Shirley Ballas agrees
The Queen Of Latin and over-excited paddle-brandishing said she would also have decided to save Zara and Graziano, so it’s a unanimous decision.
Nikita Kanda is eliminated
Which means the BBC Asian Network presenter becomes this year’s second celebrity to depart the dancefloor.
Anton Du Beke choose to save…
Zara and Graziano, saying “both couples danced better but unfortunately there were a couple of small mistakes”.
Motsi Mabuse chooses to save…
Zara and Graziano, saying “one couple made visible mistakes”.
Craig Revel Horwood chooses to save…
Zara and Graziano, saying “they had both technique and theatricality”.
Decision time
Did Nikita do enough? And is it cold in her little corner of the world?
Nikita and Gorka take their turn
Nikita Kanda and Gorka Márquez reprise their jive to Kids In America from Clueless. The judges said last night that it was laboured and lacking retraction but demonstrated improvement in performance level, giving it 21 points - Nikita’s highest score yet but still second bottom and four points below Zara.
To close that gap, she’ll need to deliver a flawless performance but there are little mistakes and timing issues here. Not quite Clueless but she isn’t a natural dancer, bless her.
Zara and Graz go first in dance-off
Zara McDermott and her pro partner Graziano Di Prima have another go at their paso doble to The Puss Suite from Puss In Boots.
Craig said last night that it was “too marchy and stompy but dramatic and theatrical”. She was four points ahead of Nikita last night, so should be fine if she gets through the routine unscathed. Claws and content but lacking in technique. Those costumes aren’t helping. Hard to be dramatic while dressed as the Cowardly Lion from Wizard Of Oz.
Updated
Johannes Radebe says that Annabel Croft has been cooking meals for him. Amanda Abbington got recognised in the a well-known supermarket while buying corn plasters and blister pads. Nigel Batman gets his “fewer” and “less” the wrong way around.
Updated
Back up to the Clauditorium while the two dance-off couples limber up. Krishnan Guru-Murthy reveals that politicians are being much nicer to him now he’s on Strictly. Angela Rippon says she’s been living in “house suits” aka velour loungewear. House suits for the win.
Nikita Kanda in the dance-off
As predicted by bookies and many viewers, the BBC Asian Network DJ is consigned to her second consecutive dance-off. Can she prevail again? Nigel and his Batman tights squeak on through.
Angela Rippon and her professional partner Michael Fabricant are also through. Which means it’s Nigel or Nikita…
Amanda Abbington is through. Thank you x 3. Layton Williams also survives.
Teams Johannabel and Krishlauren are safely through.
Who will face Zara in the dance-off?
Eek. We’re about to find out.
Anton admires Annabel Croft’s top line and ballroom potential. Craig adores Angela Scanlon’s on-point swivel and in-sync Charleston
The panel pick up on how Bobby Brazier lost himself to the samba and Amanda Abbington’s rumba splits.
Updated
Dance debrief
Up to the Clauditorium for a Titanic singalong, some judgely gossip and a closer look at last night’s routines. Paint me like one of your French girls.
The song is from Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery, in case you were groping for the movie connection.
Madison's square dancin'
Musical performance now from Madison Beer, performing her 2022 single Showed Me (How I Fell In Love With You) – a cover of The Turtles’ 1964 classic.
The New York-born popstrel briefly dated Brooklyn Beckham five years go but don’t hold it against her. Nikita Kuzmin and Nadiya Bychkova do the honours dance-wise.
Updated
Cute baby pic of Eddie Kadi. Let’s see if Shirley can refrain from whipping out her 10 paddle for it.
Jody Cundy has fallen for the fake tanning regime and is currently on Venetian level. He’ll be on Teak Tango Sunset soon.
Updated
Barry Manilow alert! Ellie Leach is dancing a salsa next week to Copacabana. As a massive Fanilow, this is quite exciting for me.
Bobby Brazier’s godsister Ada did a show and tell at school about him. Cranking up the cutesy factor here.
Updated
Up in the Clauditorium, a cute clip of Adam Thomas’ kids dressed as the Mario bros. He’s dancing a waltz next week, reveals his partner Luba Mushtuk.
It’s like two despondent cats have been told off for bringing a dead bird into the kitchen again.
Zara McDermott in dreaded dance-off
Well, well. The former government advisor and Love Island alumna will perform again for survival. But who against? Nikita, surely? Not Nigel, Krishnan or La Rippon please.
Jody Cundy is safe
He was bottom of the scoreboard, which means we might be in for a shock. Bobby Brazier, Eddie Kadi and Adam Thomas are also progressing.
Ellie Leach and Angela Scanlon are safe. The latter’s pro partner Carlos Gu seemed to have zoned out there.
Red spotlight of doom
Buckle up, it’s time for long pauses, relieved embraces and thanks yous down the camera.
Our Strictly stars™
Our couples await their fates in a feast of fancy dress and questionable toupées. Commenters last night compared Kai Widdrington’s wig to both Clare Balding and Michael Fabricant. Harsh but fair-haired.
Amy was back and it was lovely to see
The most heartwarming moment of the night, though, was the surprise appearance of much-missed Welsh pro Amy Dowden, emerging from the Clauditorium’s glittery curtain to read the voting Ts & Cs and update us on her cancer treatment. Get well and hurry back, Caerphilly wonder.
Movie Week gets a second viewing
Last night’s live show gets recapped. Angela Scanlon’s leaderboard-topping Charleston! Layton Williams in a dress and heels! Moustachioed Italian plumbers! Balloons! Swordfights! Moon River gorgeousness! Eddie Kadi dedicating his Men In Black streetdance to his dad! It’s weeks too early for a 10 from Shirley!
Updated
Frockwatch
Here come our presentational dream duo, so let’s do the traditional frockular face-off. Tess Daly is in a silver shirt with sparkly panel. Claudia Winkleman is a white satin shirt with a rosette detail. Both lovely but Tess’ shirt edges it.
Gorka is basically Ken meets Zoolander, right? Kenlander.
Ginger Neil is being Michael Cera’s character Allan. That casting is on-point. And now we’ve segued into Dua Lipa’s Dance The Night.
Pinkly come dancing
We open with a group number from the professional troupe. It’s a plastic fantastic affair, based on the Barbie movie and set to Lizzo’s Pink. Dianne Buswell plays our titular doll-like heroine (a role that surely should’ve gone to Nadiya Bychkova), waking up in her Dream House before flying down to Barbie Land.
Gorka Márquez gets his abs out to channels Ryan Gosling as Ken. It’s commercial style with flavours of jazz and jive. Colourful day-glo fun - and probably more uplifting than an Oppenheimer-themed dance, let’s face it.
Aaaaand we’re off!
Roll clap-along credits. One of these couples will be heading home in approx 40 minutes. But who, I implore ye, who?
Select sweet or salty popcorn, refill your eye-wateringly expensive fizzy drinks and take your sofa seats.
One couple’s Strictly movie is set to get an unhappy ending. We’re about to head over to the Elstree Studios ballroom…
Navy from top to toe, Tomasz Schafernaker’s been getting wardrobe tips from BBC colleague Ros Atkins. Would love to see both of them on Strictly, mind you.
A Highland Games edition of Countryfile on BBC1 right now, helmed by reigning glitterball champion Hamza Yassin. Always a pleasure to see him. Who needs a caber when you can toss Jowita around?
A mere 10 minutes to wait now…
Running time tonight is a tight 45 minutes again, as it will be the foreseeable. There’s plenty of padding in these results shows but somehow they still seem to fly by.
Start some gentle stretching and lace up those dancing shoes. Just 15 minutes until sequin o’clock…
Updated
We’re only here for the Beer
I’m told that tonight’s musical guest is Madison Beer. Nope, me neither. Every day’s a school day.
Twenty minutes until we’re back in the ballroom…
Bookies are confident of the outcome
Coming into this weekend, the bookmakers’ strong favourite for elimination was poor Nikita Kanda for the second live show running. She survived last Sunday’s dance-off against drunken sailor Les Dennis but last night finished second from bottom on the scoreboard again.
Nikita’s exit odds promptly shortened further. Will the BBC Asian Network presenter get enough public support to lift her clear of the dance-off? If not, who will she face? It’s 25 minutes until we get our first clues…
Who’ll be a box office bomb in Movie Week?
The end credits are about to roll on one couple’s contest. Good evening and welcome to the second results show of Strictly Come Dancing 2023. I’m Michael, your Movie Week viewing companion. Please watch along with me as the second celebrity follows the yellow brick road home.
After last night’s celluloid-inspired live show, our 14 pro-celebrity pairs now wait nervously to find out their fate. The judges’ scores have been combined with viewer votes and tonight, the bottom two couples will dance off for survival. So who’s at risk?
Jody Cundy was left propping up the scoreboard after his American not-very-smooth. Jiving, jittery Nikita Kanda was just a point above but will the public poll agree? If not, the likes of Zara McDermott, Adam Thomas and even Nigel Harman could come into reckoning.
It’s showtime at 7.15pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 6.45pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and quips from the back row of the cinema. So grab a bag of exorbitantly priced pick ’n’ mix and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As always, I’d love to hear from you too. You can tweet me @michaelhogan, email me at michael.hogan.freelance@guardian.co.uk and the comments section below is open for your Movie Week musings. I’ll samba-shimmy down there periodically to gauge your reaction to the show and report on your comments.
The critics’ reviews and box office receipts are in. Nearly time to staaaaaart cinematic eliminating!
Thank you and goodnight
In old-fashioned cinema style, probably in a curly font: The End. That concludes Saturday’s filmic-themed liveblog but like Arnie in the Terminator, I’ll be back.
See you right here for the results show which airs 7.15pm Sunday on BBC1. I’ll clap the clapperboard on the blog at 6.45pm for build-up, so I hope you’ll rejoin me then. In the meantime, I’m @michaelhogan on Twitter, so do swing by and say hello.
Thanks for watching along with me and your cracking company. See you for the sequel tomorrow, Team Sparkle. And in the meantime, the usual applies: keeeeeep dancing!
It’s not looking good for poor Nikita Kanda. She’s now odds-on at 4/5 with bookmaker Coral to leave tomorrow. Jody Cundy is 3/1. But will voting viewers agree?
Updated
It’s a rap, viewers
Once you’ve tolerated the high-pitched quizzing on Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel on BBC1, TV viewers can flip on BBC2 at 9.35pm for excellent rap documentary First Ladies of Hip Hop.
Pick of the night’s films? One of my all-time favourites, the mighty Midnight Run, is on Legend at 9pm. Fans of Tiny Tom Cruise (or Samantha Morton in a flotation tank) can stay up late for Minority Report, 11.05pm on Channel 4.
Updated
Finally, many of you became strangely obsessed by a certain audience member visible behind a certain judge. granuidangle says: “For goodness sake, can someone PLEASE get that bored teenager behind Craig something to eat besides her nails?”
ksym77 says: “The incredibly bored-looking girl behind Craig has been the absolute star of the episode.”
Sebnose was sad to see her go: “They’ve blatantly shifted Craig’s camera over - he’s left of centre now. Poor girl, she had no idea.”
Krishnan Guru-Murthy’s show-closing Cabaret Charleston was a huge hit.
“I wasn’t sure Krishnan could pull that flamboyant character off - but he was most enjoyable, brilliant,” says jagadox.
ButterflyBlu adds: “I liked that from Krishan. Not the best of the night but he’s definitely improving each week. I think he’s starting to believe in himself and enjoying it. Way to embarrass your son on national tv though! ;o)“
KarimaKat salutes his pro partner: “Lauren has stepped into that oti shaped hole! Love her.... and KGM really shaping up as a dancer. Great stuff”
Updated
Lots of love for Eddie Kadi, less love for Shirley giving him an over-inflated 10.
TiggyStardust: “Eddie’s love and appreciation for his dad… bit dusty now.”
Jagadox agrees: “A bit early to play the family card maybe? But Eddie’s love for his dad was very moving. And I really loved the dance as well.”
Styletraveller says: “That’s my fair marking thesis out of the window then. What was she thinking of?” Mike Moonlight adds: “It’s a bit early to have cracked open the Christmas Baileys, eh Shirley?”
girlpanic says: “Couples Choice. Why? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, they should copy the US way and have everyone do theirs in the same week so it’s easier to score!”
Updated
Ellie Leach and Bobby Brazier also proving popular below the line. diamondcat says: “Gorgeous Viennese Waltz from Ellie and Vito. Lovely frame from Ellie and you couldn’t have got a sheet of paper between them. The transitions between solo and in hold flowed beautifully.”
wtrukus says: “Whichever one of you on here said Bobby was Mick Jagger in the first show, you are spot on!”
nonironlady adds: “Am I the only one who believes Romeo & Juliet was a stage play before it was a movie?”
Much appreciation for La Scanlon’s scoreboard-topping Charleston with acanthe saying: “Carlos is really clever at playing to Angela’s strengths and also - how brave giving her a Fosse routine. I loved that, start to finish!”
avenueman says of Ms Abbington: “Impressed by Amanda’s rumba, by the fact that she can do the splits and by the fact that she’s not the only person who watches the TV on her own wearing something sparkly. I’m not alone.” Craig makes it three, avenueman.
Updated
Readers’ verdicts
A rapid round-up of your comments. Of tonight’s costumes, EnglishAthene says of Kai’s ensemble: “Well, if you’re going to make a handsome lad look silly, shorts made from the living room curtains will do it.”
davidargile says of Giovanni: “Joe varney loves a good turtleneck, has he been shopping where the Milk Tray man shops?
Mollyinthefolly adds: “Don’t think the shoes were helping Nikita there, as well as the fact that I’m fairly sure Cher from Clueless wouldn’t have been caught dead wearing trainers with that outfit!”
Nervy wait for Nikita and Jody
So Angela Scanlon finishes top of the leaderboard, with Eddie Kadi in second place and Ellie Leach in third.
As per usual, the judges’ scores will now be combined with viewer votes and the bottom two couples will face the dreaded dance-off™ on Sunday. Nikita Kanda and Jody Cundy, cut adrift four points below the rest, will be fearing the red spotlight of doom. Is Zara McDermott safe, though?
It’s this week’s Golden Glitterballs!
They’re like the Oscars but from the Poundshop. Here are this week’s gong recipients…
Best dance: Angela Scanlon’s Charleston by a country mile for me, followed by Ellie Leach’s Viennese waltz. Eddie Kadi came between them on the judges’ scoreboard but they were just being nice. Ye olde Couple’s Choice problem right there.
Worst dance: Jody Cundy and Nikita Kanda, who might well be contesting the dance-off tomorrow.
Best music choice: Moon River and Encanto were both lovely.
Worst music choice: That Will Smith rap was a bit karaoke.
Best outfit: Annabel Croft looked chic as hell as Audrey Hepburn. I also enjoyed Angela Scanlon’s gamine crop wig.
Worst outfit: Poor old Kai Widdrington’s Ken-meets-Bob Downe wig, tastefully teamed with a wartime toddler’s shorts.
Best judges’ comment: Craig sniped amusingly at Motsi “shrieking” along to Encanto but the prize goes to his remark after Amanda Abbington’s Bridget Jones routine: “I often sit on the sofa watching TV in a sparkly dress, darling.”
Worst VT: Anton-man. One superhero franchise that won’t be getting a sequel.
Best Claudia quip: When Carlos Gu modestly mentioned that Angela Scanlon “wasn’t up to my level”, Claudia drily noted: “She’s trying, world champion, but it’s only week three.”
Updated
Credits roll
“Keeeeeep dancing,” say a swaying Tess and Claud. As the credits roll and the cinema slowly empties, please stay with us for analysis, reaction and a round-up of your comments.
Updated
We recap the dances on screen. Boy, there were some goodies. There were also some less goodies. But for week three, that was a corker of a show, no?
The vote is now... open
Motsi Mabuse is dressed as Yoda. Craig’s a Stormtrooper. Jabba the Hutt is is on the balcony. Claudia is Darth Vader. She is your father, which is confusing.
Judges’ comments for Krishnan and Lauren: Anton says “close to brilliant bit never look at the judges because you lost timing”. Craig says “I liked all that, actually, loved the stylisation, swivel was there, magnificent”. Motsi says “extremely entertaining, your best dance”. Shirley concludes “a newsreader in make-up, darling, you’re invested and in it for the long haul”. Sevens and eights?
Judges’ scores: 8, 8, 7, 7 for a total of 30 points. Joint fifth. Claudia makes a point of embarrassing Krishnan’s teen son Jay in the audience. Adorable.
Updated
Krishnan and Lauren’s Charleston
Last dance now. After a dip with his foxtrot last time out, the Channel 4 newsreader tries to recapture the fun from his week one cha-cha. He’s the expressive Emcee. Nice It’s a Sin “La!” T-shirt in training, I note. Black tailcoat, some top hat and cane-ography. Timing off in places but heaps of charisma. Stylish lifts and tricks, kooky characterisation. Enough swivel for Craig? And Lauren is shouting instructions at him less, which must be a good sign. Confetti falls to finish. Neat and sharp, bravo.
Song: Money Money from Cabaret. Joe McFadden and Katya Jones did a samba to this number six years ago and went on to lift the glitterball trophy. An omen? Probably not but Krishnan can dream.
Updated
Judges’ comments for Adam and Luba: Shirley says “you took it up two notches, just enough basics, no mistakes, hit the lifts, you just put yourself in the running, mate”. Anton says “wonderful concept, well-danced”. Craig says “needed sharpness and retraction, stiff and stilted but infectious enthusiasm”. Motsi concludes “it came together, this is the right way”.
Judges’ scores: 5 (boo), 7, 7, 7 for a total of 26 points. Mid-table.
Updated
Adam and Luba’s jive
It’s-a me, Mario. Actor Adam Thomas got tearful after his tango last week. What he needs to cheer him up is… dressing up as Mario and Luigi. However, he’s been short of training time due to a busy week filming Waterloo Road. Mario Kart messin’ abaht to start, last-minute-ordered-from-Amazon costumes. Needs to get his body weight forward and be lighter on his feet but lots of energy and smiley entertainment. Sharpness lacking but a kiddie crowd-pleaser.
Song: Take On Me from the Super Mario Bros Movie. The 1985 synth-pop classic by Norwegian trio A-ha had a memorable video with pencil-sketch animation - filmed at a Turkish café in Wandsworth, trivia fans. It starred Hot Gossip’s Bunty Bailey, who became singer Morten Harket’s girlfriend. The dream.
Updated
Judges’ comments for Annabel and Jojo: Motsi says “I had to keep it together, you created a beautiful atmosphere, stillness and took your time, lovely message”. Shirley says “pure class, proud of you”. Anton says “exquisite lines but bend that standing leg and drive across the floor”. Craig concludes “needed more extension and drive but you reminded me of Darcey Bussell, you were regal, what an improvement”. Sevens and eights?
Judges’ scores: 8, 8, 7, 7 for a total of 30 points. Her best yet. Lovely.
Updated
Annabel and Jojo’s waltz
Team Johannabel dipped in form last week with a tense, tentative quickstep but a chance to play Audrey Hepburn’s classic character might help Ms Croft conquer her nerves. Slow, sweet and flowing. Smooth control and beautiful stride. Annabel looking fabulous in monochrome and pearls. A lovely spin in front of the judges. Footwork wobbles a little but that was charming and emotional. Both tearful at the end.
Song: Moon River from Breakfast At Tiffany’s. Compoer Henry Mancini and lyricist Johnny Mercer won an Oscar for the song in 1961 and it became easy listening crooner Andy Williams’ signature tune. One Paramount studio exec suggested cutting the song from the film, to which Hepburn replied: “Over my dead body!”
Updated
The first 10 of the series should be a big moment. That felt thrown away. Shame.
Judges’ comments for Eddie and Karen: Craig says “this is your strength, your jam, done your family proud”. Motsi says “music in your body, I loved your swag”. Shirley says “slick, stylish, edgy, entertaining”. Streetdance expert Anton concludes “magical, you were looking at Karen out of the corner of your eye but brilliant number”. “I was looking out for aliens,” quips Eddie with a grin. Scores for that? Anyone’s guess but probably eights.
Judges’ scores: 8, 8, it’s never too early for a 10 from Shirley (I think you’ll find it is), 8 for a total of 34 points. Wild. Second so far.
Updated
Eddie and Karen’s cha cha cha
The first Couple’s Choice routine of the series goes to British-Congolese comic Eddie Kadi and his pro partner Karen Hauer. Suited and booted like true galaxy defenders. Streetdance style and he’s got the groove. Some lock and pop. Just slide, baby, take a walk. The much-maligned category is hard to judge and this is fun but technically not great and the timing’s off in patches. CGI alien on the dancefloor. He wields a “Neuralyzer” memory-wiping device to finish. Quick, use it on Craig.
Song: Men In Black Theme by Will Smith. The 1997 sci-fi comedy’s Grammy-winning theme was Smith’s first solo release without DJ Jazzy Jeff and the lead single from his album Big Willie Style. It featured a sample from Forget Me Nots by Patrice Rushen, also famously sampled on George Michael’s Fast Love.
Updated
Judges’ comments for Jody and Jowita: Anton says “wonderful storytelling, pick your elbows up but don’t lose the narrative”. Craig says “frame was jagged but great lifts”. Motsi says “careful of transitions, too stop-start and lost energy but keep going”. Shirley concludes “lovely footwork, beautiful number, thank you for coming”. That’s nice. Thank YOU for coming, Shirl.
Judges’ scores: 4, 5, 5, 6 for a total of 20 points. Bottom by just a point.
Updated
Jody and Jowita’s American smooth
The decorated Paralympian has been struggling with his leg all week. It got badly infected and so swollen that he couldn’t get his prosthetic leg on, causing him to miss two training days. He was already rattling around the bottom of the scoreboard, so could be up against it here. Then again, dancing could be cathartic after a painful week and viewres might well root for the underdog. He’s dressed like John Shuttleworth, for some reason. Posture looks awkward but lovely lifts and sweet storytelling. He floats up on a bunch of balloons at the end. Cute.
Song: Married Life from Up. The Oscar-winning song that soundtracked the famous house-floating opening sequence from the 2009 Pixar film. Composer Michael Giacchino based it on his grandmother’s music box.
Updated
Judges’ comments for Bobby and Dianne: Shirley says “you brought the party, rhythm in that pelvis was fantastic, you sold it on me”. Anton says “you’ve got a double-jointed trick pelvis, remarkable”. Craig says “it’s an unnatural dance for men but you made it look natural, a-may-zing”. Motsi concludes “you enjoyed it so much and gave everything”. Eights again? Surely he’ll beat his 29 point record?
Judges’ scores: 8, 8, 8, 8 for a total of 32 points. His highest yet and third so far.
Updated
Bobby and Dianne’s samba
The EastEnder has scored 29 points both weeks so far. Can he improve with his first Latin number? He’s been talking up his hip action and practising his shimmies in the kitchen at home, so hopes are high. In fair Verona we set our scene. It’s the Capulet party scene, sans fishtank meet-cute. Bobby goes a bit disco in the opening solo section but improves once they’re into the samba content. Hips, bounce, body ripples, those kitchen shimmies. Goes down a storm in the studio.
Song: Young Hearts Run Free from Romeo + Juliet. Candi Staton’s soaring disco-funk classic was covered by house diva Kym Mazelle for the 1996 film and produced by Bristolian DJ Nellee Hooper. Mazelle grew up on the same street as the Jackson family in Gary, Indiana. What a musical thoroughfare.
Updated
They’ve rather front-loaded the female celebrities in the running order. Only Annabel Croft and five males to go.
Judges’ comments for Ellie and Vito: Motsi says “you bought the magic, third brilliant week in a row, great detail and connection, love, love, love that”. Shirley says “nice soft knees and footwork, frame improving, I was blown away, you’re Miss Fluidity”. Anton says “a delightful package and you delivered it”. Craig concludes “your free arm needs to speak but I loved that”. Eights ahoy?
Judges’ scores: 8, 9, 8, 8 for a total of 33 points. Second so far.
Updated
Ellie and Vito’s Viennese waltz
Coronation Street actor Ellie Leach has been a pleasant surprise so far this series and the third highest scorer so far. Following last week’s sweet ice cream quickstep, she’s sticking to ballroom for a spinning Viennese. She’s been worrying about her rounded shoulders and trying hard to keep them down. She’s also had painful blisters on her feet and lost a toenail in training. Softness and smoothness. Magical mood, sways and spins. Great Mirabel Madrigal costume and sparkly lighting effects. She’s a lovely dancer. That was Disney fairytale stuff.
Song: Waiting on a Miracle from Disney’s Encanto. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Colombian bambuco song isn’t to be confused with We Don’t Talk About Bruno (Tonioli).
Updated
Ginger pro Neil Jones gets congratulated on the Clauditorium for his new baby daughter. “It’s like getting a 10 from Craig,” he says, going full Tom Cruise.
Judges’ comments for Nikita and Gorka: Craig says “flat-footed and heavy, no retraction, the criticism isn’t here to break you, it’s here to make you, the energy was definitely better”. Motsi says “you’re getting stronger but your weight was too far back”. Shirley says “slow and steady improvement, zero mistakes, keep growing in confidence”. Anton concludes “immeasurably better performance-wise”. Fives or sixes?
Judges’ scores: 4, 6, 5, 6 for a total of 21 points. Her highest yet but the dance-off looms again, I fear.
Updated
Nikita and Gorka’s jive
The Asian Network DJ is last week’s dance-off survivor and bookie’s favourite for the boot this time. Can she defy the odds? Rather sweetly, the Stacey Solomon soundalike said this week that there’s no chance of her finding romance on Strictly because it’s her mum who’s been getting all the attention. There have been grumblings online that she’s being set up for a fall by getting the tricky jive, a dance even faster than last week’s Charleston. Still, throwing herself into a high-energy routine should showcase her bubbly personality. She needs to nail the speed and timing, while improving her footwork. Class debate setting to start. Flat-footed but being in trainers won’t help her. Laboured and lacking in bounce. Flicks and kicks look treacly. A game effort but she could be in dance-off danger again.
Song: Kids In America from Clueless. Kim Wilde’s debut single from 1981 was co-written by her brother Ricky and father Marty, inspired by the synth sound of OMD and Gary Numan. The power-pop banger sold so well in its first week of release that foul play was suspected and it wasn’t included in that week’s chart. It went on to peak at no.2.
Updated
Judges’ comments for Amanda and Gio: Anton says “lovely legs, purring, changes of speed, ooh have some of that, I’m getting warm, maybe it’s the velvet”. Craig says “lacked flow, too placed but beautifully performed”. Motsi says “elegant, controlled movement but weight was too far back too ooze through it, expressive and high quality”. Shirley concludes “I commend your rumba walk, you took me down memory lane, your splits was better than mine, improving each week, well done”. Eights and maybe a nine a-coming?
Judges’ scores: 6 (do what mate?), 8, 8, 8 for a total of 30 points. Second so far. Craig, you complete maverick.
Updated
Amanda and Gio’s rumba
Is Giovanni being Colin Firth or Hugh Grant? And will Amanda be wearing Bridget’s signature big pants™? Actor Amanda Abbingdon has made a storming start to the contest and is the second highest scorer so far. Now she’s got this year’s first rumba of the series. How will she handle the notoriously tricky slow, sensual dance of seduction. She can draw on her acting skills but Shirley especially will have hawk eyes on her technique. Climbs out from under her heartbreak slanket to reveal sparkly teal frock with slashed sheer skirt to see the leg action. Intensity and chemistry is good. Splits impressive, rumba walks less so. A little bumpy and lumpy at times but overall beautiful. She can dance. A finalist in waiting?
Song: Out Of Reach from Bridget Jones’ Diary. Hackney-born singer Gabrielle was a big influence on Adele, who invited her to open her Hyde Park gigs last summer. Actor Zoe Lucker (of Tanya Turner-from-Footballers’ Wives fame) and her pro partner James Jordan performed a rumba to it way back in series 7.
Updated
Judges’ comments for Angela S and Carlos: Shirley says “love the trust, incredible stamina, great swivels”. Anton says “best number of the series so far, clean as a whistle, springs in your shoes like Tigger, brilliant”. Craig says “wanted more back extension but absolutely berrr-illiant. Motsi concludes “perfect”. I think we’re going to get 8s, maybe a 9 here.
Judges’ scores: 9, 9, 8, 9 for a total of 35 points. Top of the leaderbaord, only a Shirley quibble away from matching the highest score of the series so far. Well deserved. Loved that. Mambo!
Updated
Angela S and Carlos’s Charleston
Last week’s jive was a huge improvement and now La Scanlon has another high-energy dance with lots of side-by-side. Her Irish dancing background should help her again. Yellow shirts with pom pom detail and cropped black trousers, like in the musical’s famous mambo number. Spot of curtain and hat-ography and sharp, jazz-handsy Fosse moves. Love her short wig. Lots of swivel for you-know-who. Goofy styling, glorious moves, darned good.
Song: Who’s Got the Pain from Damn Yankees. The 1958 baseball musical, originally retitled What Lola Wants in the UK, is best remembered for Gwen Verdon’s star turn as Lola and the Bob Fosse-choreographed dance numbers.
Updated
“Iconic” klaxon. Drink!
Judges’ comments for Layton and Nikita: Motsi says “lovely details but watch your feet”. Shirley says “you’re fabulous but it showed how difficult ballroom is, fly flat, footwork errors, listen to Nikita”. Anton says “fantastic fleckerl but posture flat and square”. He and Shirley do a quick demo time topline-wise. Craig concludes “too much attack, calm it right down, it became jagged and lacked grace”. He’s so good, they’re being extra picky. Sevens?
Judges’ scores: 7, 7, 7, 7 for a total of 28 points. Top of the leaderboard so far but might not stay there.
Updated
Layton and Nikita’s Viennese Waltz
Last week’s leaderboard-toppers try to maintain momentum by putting the sass away for his first slow number. Actor Layton Williams is channeling Betty Rizzo in a pink shirt, black skirt, wig and high heels, explaining: “We are doing more than just dancing. We’re setting an example to people at home to be themselves.” A Strictly first. Jojo has worn heels before but never a celebrity. Rydell High and T-Bird garage messin’ abaht to start, then into a dramatic Viennese, with lots of spins and style. Flower-in-a-vase shape, fleckerls and one-legged spins. His leg extensions and glorious and this is gaw-jus.
Song: There Are Worse Things I Could Do from Grease. Stockard Channing, who performed it in the 1978 film, was aged 33 when she played the high school teenager. Nuttin’ but a number.
Updated
Judges’ comments for Zara and Graziano: Craig says “marchy and stompy but dramatic and theatrical”. Motsi says “improving but watch the technique”. Shirley says “I disagree, Craig, it’s a marching dance, strong moves, great choreography”. Anton concludes “tremendous and committed, keep it up”.
Judges’ scores: 6, 6, 6, 7 for a total of 25 points. Her best yet. Graz has nicknamed Zara “an old laptop”, apparently. The Sicilian charmer.
Updated
Zara and Graziano’s paso doble
We haven’t seen the best of the Love Island alumna yet. She needs a breakthrough dance. Will it be their “pusso doble”. Can Zara find her inner fire and intensity? Claws, ears and whiskers ahoy. Some sword-ography for a fencing interlude. Swishing skirt, high kicks, flamenco feel and the odd bit of Spanish line but too much walking around. Better in hold. Floor spin to finish.
Song: The Puss Suite from Puss In Boots. The Shrek spin-off, starring Antonio Banderas as the fugitive moggie, had a traditional Latin soundtrack with folk instrumentation and flamenco guitar from duo Rodrigo y Gabriela. Olé!
Updated
Judges’ comments for Angela R and Kai: Anton says “I do love a long sock, that’s quite a knee. Wonderful line and musicality”. Craig says “frame slightly loose, a bit messy getting in and out of hold but brilliant performance skills”. Motsi says “great connection but hesitant”. Shirley concludes “delightful to watch but some little mistakes”. Sixes, do we say?
Judges’ scores: 6, 7, 6, 7 for a total of 26 points. Her lowest yet but she’s happy.
Updated
Angela R and Kai’s quickstep
The fab-ew-lous Angela Rippon turns 79 next week and admits she’s been finding training tough for this one, gasping for air and uttering her first ever “triple knickers”. This week, she took time out to go to the Royal Albert Hall and watch the International Ballroom Dancing Championships for inspiration. She admits she’s never seen the film, just the stage show. She’s Julie Andrews in an Alpine frock and begins with some guitar-strumming. Kai’s in lederosen and blond Ken-rom-Barbie wig. They’re focusing on technique and storytelling, rather than flying around the floor. Smooth and elegant, if a little stately of pave and wobbly of footwork. Gapping galore but perks right up as the pace gathers.
Song: Do-Re-Mi from The Sound of Music, the Rodgers & Hamserstein classic used by governess Maria to teach musical scales to the Von Trapp children. Author Douglas Adams joked that the lyrics were unfinished, with “La, a note to follow so” sounding suspiciously like a placeholder.
Amy Dowden on the Ts & Cs
The Welsh pro, sitting out the series due to cancer and chemo, is our Clauditorium guest, reading out the voting small print. Lovely to see her and a rousing reception in the ballroom. Who needs Ed “Glitter” Balls? Miss you, Amy.
Updated
Judges’ comments for Nigel and Katya: Shirley says “difficult steps, some tiny mistakes but lovely performance overall”. Anton, who seems to have dressed as Austin Powers, says “wonderful way to start the show”. Craig says “flat of foot, flicks and kicks could have been sharper but beautiful pirouette”. Motsi concludes “started loose but got stronger and finished well”. Sevens, do we reckon?
Judges’ scores: 6, 6, 6, 7 for a total of 25 points. After a strong start, Nigel is dipping.
Updated
Nigel and Katya’s jive
He topped the leaderboard in week one but had a reality check last week and tumbled to mid-table. Can he recapture his form? The dynamic duo are in capes, gloves, Lycra and tights. He’s channelling Adam West from the camp 60s version, rather than the more recent moody movies. Or indeed, Del Boy and Rodney. Wall climb and on-screen graphics. Silly mood, high energy, over-the-top characterisation but a tad flat-footed, lacking in bounce and retraction. Lost timing and flagged towards the end. Disappointing for me.
Song: Theme from Batman. The 1966 surf rock classic has been covered by The Jam, The Who, The Kinks - and even actor David McCallum, who died a fortnight ago. It was also the first song that Prince learned to play on the piano when he was age seven.
Updated
Our Strictly stars™
Our 14 couples arrive, having thoroughly raided the fancy dress box backstage at Elstree. It’s like an eight-year-old’s birthday party has been rolled in glitter.
Judges in the house
The panel quartet of Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Shirley Ballas prance into view. No synchronised sit-down but Shirley leaps into Anton’s arms instead. Well held, sir.
Frockwatch
Here come our leading ladies, so time for our weekly couture comparison. Tess Daly is in a cerise satin full-length sleeveless gown. Claudia Winkleman is in a black sparkly sheer dress. I’m calling it a draw. Some costumed characters have wandered down from the Disney store too.
Well, this is lovely. Bit of a throwback number. In a good way. Retro costumes, subtle theming, bravo.
Updated
Group number from the pros
We open with the professional troupe busting out the first of two film-themed group routines this weekend. Giovanni Pernice is a cinematographer, Neil Jones is a Ginger Walt Disney – and then we’re into a rather magical Disney medley ballroom number. Proper dancing!
Roll clap-along title sequence. Aww look, it’s Les Dennis. Remember him? No? That’s showbiz.
Aaaaand we’re off!
Cue introductory VT starring “Ant(on)man”, a dinky Mr Beak. Oh dear.
Freshen up your huge bucket of Fanta and stock up on Butterkist, film fans. We’re about to go over live to the Elstree Studios ballroom…
Alan Carr presiding Numberwang on BBC1 now. Mornington Crescent! Bank! I’ll have a P please, Bob! A mere five minutes until sequin o’clock…
Running time tonight is 135 minutes, the same as last week. There’s one fewer couple but the time is taken up with various flim-themed fluff.
Next week’s live show, however, is two hours on the nose. Ten minutes now until the ballroom bell goes…
Ballroom news
Jody Cundy had a 4am hospital dash this week when his leg became badly infected. He couldn’t get his prosthetic leg on for two days, so was forced to miss Wednesday and Thursday’s training.
Meanwhile, Layton Williams will be making Strictly history tonight by wearing a dress and heels for his Viennese waltz. Expect Middle England to explode.
Tonight’s 14 dances include the first rumba, American smooth and Couple’s Choice routines of the series.
We’ll also see two Viennese waltzes, two Charlestons and three jives. Fifteen minutes until the director calls action…
Let’s play Movie Week bingo
Tick them off when you spot them on-screen! Take a drink for each! Go crossed-eyed by 8.30pm! Here’s your 10-point checklist for tonight:
A celebrity unconvincingly claims that they’re paying tribute to their all-time favourite film
Over-enthusiastic use of the word “iconic”
Anton Du Beke makes a misty-eyed reference to his Movie Week routines of yore
A Charleston lacks swivel
Motsi argues with Craig who in turn argues with Shirley
A paso doble lacks Spanish line
Over-enthusiastic use of the word “literally”
Slightly painful movie-themed montage with Craig playing the villain
The judges have no clue how to mark Couple’s Choice so give random scores
A male celebrity distracts the judges with a bare chest or eye-watering pair of tights
Second elimination looms
Could jive jitters spell the end for Nikita Kanda? She’s the lowest scorer left in the content, having notched 18 points both weeks, and bookies’ odds-on favourite for the exit.
Dancing the jive might not help her. It’s behind only the samba in the Strictly “dance of doom” stakes, accounting for 14.2% of eliminations in the last five series. Last year, both Matt Goss and Ellie Taylor went out after a jive.
Just 20 minutes until we find out who’s a blockbuster hit and who’s a box office flop…
Saturday night at the movies
Lights, camera, hoofing action! Good evening and welcome to the first themed weekend of Strictly Come Dancing 2023. I’m Michael, your usherette for tonight’s film-themed show. You are cordially invited to watch along with me as I shine my torch to see who’s snogging on the metaphorical back row.
After last week’s first elimination - laters, Les Dennis— tonight our 14 surviving pro-celebrity pairs take to the Elstree Studios ballroom floor once again. They’ll be performing routines inspired by Hollywood films, so expect a feast of fancy dress and props.
No more of this “scores carried forward from last week” nonsense now the series is into its stride. Tonight’s judgely marks will be combined with viewer votes, then the bottom two couples will hoof for survival on Sunday night. But who’ll join drunken sailor Des Lennis on the sparkly scrapheap?
It’s showtime at 6.20pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 5.50pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and gags of wildly varying quality. So dim the lights, stock up on popcorn, nachos and overpriced drinks, and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As always, 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 open for Movie Week natter. I’ll shine my usherette’s torch down there every now and again to read your film-and-footwork critics’ views.
Hooray for Hollywood coming to Borehamwood. Nearly time to staaaaaart cinematic dancing…
