Strictly's 'Most Shocking Elimination' Sees Vicky Pattison Depart
In what's being described as the most shocking elimination of the series, television personality Vicky Pattison became the seventh celebrity to leave Strictly Come Dancing during Sunday's results show. The 38-year-old reality star and her professional partner Kai Widdrington, 30, missed securing a place in the coveted Blackpool special after losing the dreaded dance-off against EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal, 46, and her partner Julian Caillon.
Dance-Off Drama and Judges' Unanimous Decision
Following Saturday's main show, both couples found themselves at the bottom of the leaderboard with equal scores of 27 points. When they reprised their routines in the dance-off, judges Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke all chose to save Balvinder Sopal. Craig Revel Horwood, who held the casting vote this week, confirmed he would have also saved the soap star had his vote been required.
The decision left many viewers stunned, with numerous fans taking to social media to express their disbelief at the outcome. An emotional Vicky told host Tess Daly: '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 added heartfelt praise for her professional partner, saying: 'I'm really honoured to have shared this experience with so many amazing people. Mostly with this fella right here. 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.'
Spoiler Leak Causes Controversy
The elimination was particularly controversial as the result leaked online while cameras were still rolling on Saturday evening, despite the results show being pre-recorded in secret with strict security measures. A source told The Sun: 'Spoilers have plagued Strictly for years with fans struggling to avoid finding out who leaves before the Sunday results show airs. Now, results are ending up online while the cameras are still rolling.'
Fans flooded social media with reactions to the unexpected outcome, with many describing themselves as 'devastated' and 'fuming'. One shocked viewer wrote: 'Wow, wasn't expecting that result. I need a lie down,' while another commented: 'First time this series that I've been surprised by who was voted off.'
Many viewers insisted the wrong person had been sent home, with one fan declaring: 'Only my opinion but I think it's one of the first times this series the wrong person has gone.' However, others supported the judges' decision, with one social media user stating: 'I've seen the Strictly spoiler... apparently an unpopular opinion but the correct result based on the night.'
The emotional weekend also saw YouTube star George Clarke dedicate his rhumba to his mother amid her cancer battle, leaving head judge Shirley Ballas in tears, while drag performer La Voix moved viewers by speaking about her mother's recent passing.
