Strictly Come Dancing fans were left cringing after judge Motsi Mabuse made an awkward remark likening Neil Jones and Alex Scott's dance to an 'affair'. The comment came as Neil returned to the show following a two-week absence due to injury, during which Kevin Clifton had stepped in as Alex's partner.
During Saturday's live show, Neil and Alex performed the Jive to Chubby Checker's 'Let's Twist Again'. Motsi, intending a compliment, said: 'I feel like we're seeing a new couple who we knew but then someone had an affair and now the light is back on.' The comment left Neil visibly confused and Alex laughing into her hands.
Co-judge Bruno Tonioli quickly interjected, warning Motsi: 'It's gonna be in the papers tomorrow you shouldn't say that.' Motsi tried to clarify, saying she meant the duo felt 'fresh and jolly', but viewers were quick to recall the controversy surrounding Neil's estranged wife Katya Jones, who kissed her celebrity partner last year.
On Twitter, fans expressed their discomfort. One wrote: 'Omg Neil's face when Motsi made the affair comment.' Another added: 'Awkward!! Motzi mentioning #affair in front of Neil.' A third commented: 'It’s a 10 from me for awkwardness with the affair comment.'
Neil had only confirmed his return on Friday after a physio exam, giving him and Alex just one day to rehearse before the live show. He thanked Kevin Clifton for stepping in, saying they 'couldn't have done it without him'.
Strictly Come Dancing airs live on Saturday evenings on BBC One, with results on Sundays.
