EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal broke down in tears on Saturday night's episode of Strictly Come Dancing after receiving emotional feedback from the judges. The 47-year-old was visibly upset during Motsi Mabuse's critique, which referenced the difficult journey she has faced on the BBC show.
Mabuse, 44, rushed to comfort Sopal, embracing her and saying: 'I'm so proud of you. You did it on your own.' Her professional partner, Julian Caillon, stood nearby applauding. Fellow judge Anton DuBeke had earlier praised her performance, telling her: 'I think I love you. More than ever now.'
The star received a score of 9 from all judges except Craig Revel-Horwood, who gave an 8 for her Viennese Waltz to 'Never Enough' from The Greatest Showman. Sopal and Caillon have survived five dance-offs this series, and presenter Tess Daly told her: 'You deserve all of those comments. I know how hard you've worked.'
After the show, Sopal told Claudia Winkleman: 'I have waited all competition for that feeling, and I'm so grateful. I'm actually really grateful for what I've heard tonight.' Fans rallied behind the actress on social media, with one writing: 'Queen Balvinder got all my votes. We need to show her all the support.'
