Strictly Results Show Rocked by Shocking Exit and Leak
The Strictly Come Dancing results show on Sunday delivered a double dose of drama, combining a spectacular professional performance with one of the most surprising eliminations of the series so far. The evening was headlined by a stunning routine from the award-winning dance troupe Diversity, but was quickly overshadowed by the controversial exit of reality TV star Vicky Pattison.
Diversity and Nadiya Bychkova Dazzle the Dance Floor
Adding a burst of colour and energy to the programme, Ukrainian ballroom dancer Nadiya Bychkova, 37, joined forces with the Britain's Got Talent winners for a show-stopping number. Nadiya commanded attention in a vibrant hot pink outfit, showcasing her formidable skills alongside the troupe, who looked sharp in coordinated black and white costumes.
The performance was a masterclass in precision and flair, featuring the group strutting under a glittering disco ball and incorporating dramatic trumpet props. In a breathtaking moment, members of Diversity executed impressive back-flips directly off the judges' desk, leaving the studio audience in awe.
The 'Most Shocking Elimination Yet'
Following the high-octane opening, the mood shifted as the competition results were revealed. In what has been branded the 'most shocking elimination yet', former I'm A Celebrity star Vicky Pattison, 38, and her professional partner Kai Widdrington, 30, were sent home.
The pair faced the dreaded dance-off against EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal, 46, and her partner Julian Caillon. After both couples performed their routines again, the judges' decision was decisive. Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas, and Anton Du Beke all voted to save Balvinder. Craig Revel Horwood, who held the casting vote this week, confirmed he would have also saved the soap star, sealing Vicky's fate.
This result means Vicky and Kai will miss the coveted Blackpool special next week, a major milestone in the Strictly calendar.
Emotional Farewells and Fan Fury
An emotional Vicky addressed host Tess Daly after the result, stating, 'It was so lovely while it lasted, and I’ve had the nicest time. I knew this week was a difficult one for me, and I tried my hardest as I have every week.' She paid a heartfelt tribute to her partner, Kai, saying, 'I don’t want to sound too cheesy but you’ve been the best partner a girl can ask for. I’m so sorry I didn’t get you to Blackpool but I feel like I’ve won just by having you as my partner.'
Kai reciprocated the sentiment, gushing that Vicky embodied the spirit of the show and that he had 'loved every single second' of their partnership.
The shock was not confined to the studio. Fans erupted on social media, with many expressing they were 'devastated' and 'fuming' by the outcome, with the majority confessing they had not seen the result coming.
This surprise was compounded by a significant breach of protocol. Although Sunday's results episode is pre-recorded under strict security to maintain secrecy, the outcome was leaked online while cameras were still rolling on Saturday. A source revealed the spoiler problem is a growing concern for the show, creating a 'whodunnit mystery' on set and spoiling the surprise for countless viewers at home.
