In every series of Strictly Come Dancing, records are made. This year, Balvinder Sopal has set a new benchmark, though it's one she likely never wanted. The EastEnders actress has now officially survived more dance-offs than any other celebrity in the show's history.
A Record of Resilience
During Musicals Week on Saturday 6 December 2025, Sopal overtook the previous record held by 2015 contestant Jamelia. It marks her fifth time facing elimination, a daunting statistic she acknowledged with little delight when mentioned on the spin-off show It Takes Two. Yet, her response in the ballroom told a different story—one of immense pride and determination.
Fresh from defeating fellow actor Alex Kingston in the previous week's dance-off, Sopal and her professional partner Julian Callion took to the floor with a Viennese waltz. They performed to "Never Enough" from The Greatest Showman, a choice that resonated deeply.
An Emotional and Powerful Performance
The routine was both elegant and charged with emotion. As the first notes played, Sopal was seen mouthing the lyrics, fully immersed in the moment. The dance built to a stunning climax, with pyrotechnics erupting as Callion spun his partner at the centre of the dancefloor. It was a performance that masterfully blended storytelling with raw, personal feeling.
The judges were visibly moved. Motsi Mabuse told Sopal, "I feel like what you wanted to say for the last weeks came out through that dance. It must be really demoralising what you have been through in this competition." Overcome with emotion, Mabuse rushed onto the floor to embrace the actress.
Shirley Ballas echoed the sentiment, stating, "You will always be a hero for me. Coming back to dance that kind of performance, I have chills."
A Journey Defined by Fight
While another dance-off feels almost inevitable for Sopal, her place in the competition is unquestionably earned. Among this year's final five couples, none have had to prove their worth on the dreaded dance-off stage as many times as she has. Her journey is a testament to sheer resilience.
Back in the Clauditorium, greeted by cheers from fellow contestants, Sopal received another heartfelt hug, this time from host Claudia Winkleman. "That was extraordinary and I have waited all competition for that feeling," Sopal told her. "I'm so grateful. It has blown my heart."
Fighting back tears, partner Julian Callion summed up her struggle perfectly: "I'm lost for words, you are such an incredible woman... I wanted her to finish on her own, stood there and saying, 'I am Balvinder Sopal, I am proud of my journey and I deserve to be here'. You are more than enough."
Regardless of what happens next in the competition, Balvinder Sopal has already secured her legacy as one of Strictly's most tenacious and inspiring contestants.
