Strictly Come Dancing host Emma Willis halted the show moments before its conclusion to issue an apology to viewers. The pro dancers and celebrities had gathered in the auditorium for the final voting call, joined by Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe to say goodbye to the audience. Before signing off, Emma paused the broadcast to address an error.
Score Correction for Lacey and Vito
Emma explained: "Before we go to the leaderboard, we need to apologise because there was a mistake with Lacey and Vito. Shirley caused a six but the graphics said a seven, so we can confirm that Shirley did score a six so their score is in fact 28." She then reviewed the leaderboard, with Lacey and Vito in fifth place.
Tabby Stoecker and Karmalita topped the leaderboard with 37 points for their Couples' Choice dance to Stupid Song by Olivia Rodrigo. Delta Goodrem and Kai Widdrington secured second place with 34 points for their Rumba to I'd Do Anything for Love by Celine Dion, while John Nellis and Katya Jones took third with 32 points.
Choreography Criticism for Maddie Ingoldsby
Pro dancer Maddie Ingoldsby faced criticism as her partner Cach Mercer received mixed feedback from the judges for his Cha Cha to Beggin' by Maneskin. Viewers took to social media to urge the show to discuss performance choices with the dancers.
One fan commented: "I think backstage they need to have a chat with Maddie and other choreographers. Cach is getting all the heat and it's not his fault what he's taught to dance." Another added: "Cach & Maddie - cha cha - quite a few errors and didn't really get proper cha cha technique - he's a very entertaining performer regardless. Just didn't get it tonight."
A third viewer said: "Maddie has no place in this show she can't even choreograph the basics - or the fundamentals of the dance. Sorry, but she's the one hindering Cach." However, a fourth supporter wrote: "All my votes are going on cach and maddie I can't lose them lol."
