Body language expert Judi James has said Strictly Come Dancing contestant Dani Dyer must change one aspect of her behaviour if she hopes to triumph in the series, pointing to what she described as "stubborn inhibitions" in her body language.
Dani and her professional partner Nikita Kuzmin performed a Foxtrot to Beauty and the Beast during Movie Week, receiving a total of 23 points from the judges. The routine drew praise from the panel, with Anton du Beke declaring he adored the "attention to detail", while Craig also praised the duo.
Expert analysis of Dani's body language
Speaking on behalf of Paddy Power Bingo, Judi James said: "The core section of Dani's dance with Nikita went like the fairytale dream it was supposed to be, but her very self-conscious-looking rituals and behaviours otherwise with Nikita suggest there's some stubborn inhibitions needing to be shaved off from her body language if the couple are going to perform the kind of sensual chemistry out there on the dance floor that will be necessary for many of their other dance routines."
Judi added: "When Nikita looked at her after the judges' comments she squeezed her eyes shut and looked away and as they walked off the dance floor Nikita held her by the wrist in an over-formal-looking clasp rather than holding her hand."
Advice for future performances
The expert suggested Dani might need an "actor's hall pass" to improve her performances, noting: "The fans know Dani is happily married and they also know she can do fake romance as she is a Love Island winner, so she might need to get an actor's 'hall pass' to allow her to fake it a little on the dance floor if her dances are going to have the goosebump-inducing 'Strictly Sizzle' factor she'll need for a win."
During the judges' feedback, Motsi remarked it seemed as if Dani was "scared of Nikita" before saying: "They need to partner up together, they need to get together so they can move together really really softly and smoothly." Shirley also acknowledged the duo "showed promise", saying: "Every step you do I want you to live the moment because I know you can do that."
Fan support and return to the show
Dani has returned to the programme following an injury last series, again partnered with Nikita. Last weekend, viewers saw Nikita visiting Dani's family home, meeting her husband and children dressed as a Disney princess, as fans continued to show their support.
One supporter posted on Instagram: "You're both simply amazing @danidyerxx loved watching your performance." Another commented: "Yous we're just amazing loved it." Strictly Come Dancing returns tomorrow at 6.15pm on BBC One.
