Good Morning Britain presenter Richard Madeley has ignited a fierce debate surrounding Strictly Come Dancing after delivering a scathing critique of the judging panel during Friday's episode of It Takes Two.
Madeley's Blistering Attack on Judging Standards
Appearing on the spin-off show hosted by Fleur East, Madeley didn't hold back when discussing EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal's treatment throughout the competition. The veteran broadcaster argued that Sopal has been consistently undervalued by both judges and viewers, despite delivering strong performances week after week.
"She's been consistently underrated and underserved," Madeley declared, emphasising that despite receiving "good scores," the actress continues to be "underscored by the judges" and unfairly overlooked by the voting public.
Madeley expressed genuine confusion about Sopal's frequent appearances in the bottom two, stating he's "never understood" why she keeps landing in the dance-off danger zone. He firmly believes she stands as "one of the best" celebrities remaining in the competition as the semi-finals approach.
Jive Concerns and Social Media Reaction
Despite championing her natural ability, Madeley - who appeared alongside Dragons' Den star Sara Davies and Paralympian Sammi Kinghorn - voiced concerns about Sopal's upcoming Jive performance. He suggested the fast-paced choreography might not play to her strengths as a dancer.
"I'm not sure the jive is a natural dance for her," he commented. "She's full of warmth and grace and charm. She's beautiful when she moves around. I'm not sure the jive is her thing. I think she'll struggle a bit. I don't think she'll get a 10."
Madeley's outspoken comments immediately triggered a social media storm, with many viewers applauding him for articulating what they'd been thinking throughout the series.
One supporter wrote on X: "Finally Richard said what we all have been thinking... I hope she makes through and that jive looking good to me." Another added: "Absolutely this! It needed saying what Richard said, she's been underscored and underrated. Bring on the Jive."
Sopal's Challenging Strictly Journey
The controversy comes as Balvinder enters the weekend as the bookmakers' favourite to leave the show, with Betway placing her at 250/1 - significantly lower than other at-risk stars including Alex Kingston at 33/1 and Amber Davies at 20/1.
Richard's comments follow Sopal's own revelations about the difficulties behind Strictly's "glitz and glamour." The actress has found herself in the dance-off four times in just eight weeks, creating a challenging journey for her and professional partner Julian Caillon.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Sopal reflected on her experience: "Behind the glitz and glamour, the spectacle and the drama are real people's lives. We still have to manage what goes on outside of the rehearsal room and dance floor, and it's not always easy to keep it together."
The EastEnders star, 46, and her 30-year-old pro partner faced another nerve-wracking moment on Sunday when they found themselves in the bottom two yet again - though they were ultimately saved, resulting in Vicky Pattison's departure in what many described as the "most shocking elimination yet."
Despite the constant pressure, Sopal remains grateful for the opportunity to continue her Strictly journey, particularly after securing a place in the coveted Blackpool week. She praised her partner Julian as "the epitome of strength," acknowledging how he consistently pushes them to "unlock another level" as a team.
