Strictly Come Dancing professional Lauren Oakley supported her celebrity partner Graeme Hall live on air as he choked back tears after a difficult week. The pair performed a Jive to Reet Petite by Jackie Wilson on Saturday (October 10), but minutes after leaving the dancefloor Graeme was overcome with emotion.
Graeme opens up about his meltdown
Speaking to the couple after their judges' feedback, presenter Johannes Radebe asked: "That was a jam-packed Jive but you called it a beast. Why was that?" Turning to Lauren, Graeme said: "I was scared to death of that on Wednesday, wasn't it?" Lauren agreed: "Yes."
Holding back tears, Graeme continued: "I had a bit of a meltdown Wednesday. I didn't think I'd be doing that but we did it." Reassuring her partner, Lauren said: "You did it. You got through it." She added: "I've challenged him this week. It was tough at times but I can see we'll learn from it and we'll move forward. You've kind of fought through this week and you've been amazing so thank you."
Scores and previous success
The pair later received their scores from the judges. Craig Revel-Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Shirley Ballas awarded them six points out of 10 each, and Anton Du Beke gave them seven, making a total of 25 out of 40.
Last week, Graeme and Lauren topped the leaderboard with 31 points out of 40 for their Waltz to The Godfather Waltz during Movie Week. Their performance was praised by fans and judges, earning the "Dogfather" presenter a reputation as a genuine ballroom contender.
Personal journey and what's next
Despite a minor live production blunder noted by some viewers online, the routine safely advanced them to the next round. Joining the show is deeply personal for Graeme, who previously competed in amateur ballroom and Latin competitions. A stroke in 2019, caused by a hole in his heart, forced him to stop dancing completely, and he revealed he never thought he would dance again.
Upon being announced for the Strictly 2026 line-up, Graeme called the opportunity a "dream come true" and an "exciting challenge, albeit more than a bit nerve-wracking." He said: "I can't believe I am joining the cast of Strictly for 2026. I have always loved dancing, so to have the opportunity to learn from the best in the business is a dream come true. I have watched the show for years, so to be a part of it feels like a very exciting challenge, albeit more than a bit nerve-wracking! I can't wait to get started. Bring it on!"
Fans will have to wait and see if Graeme and Lauren have done enough to make it through to Icons Week. Strictly Come Dancing Results airs Sunday, October 11 on BBC One at 7.10pm.
