Strictly Come Dancing has confirmed a major format change for next Sunday's results show, marking a first for the series, but the announcement has drawn a negative reaction from viewers. For the first time ever, three couples will take part in the dance-off instead of the usual two, and one of them will be sent home directly by the judges rather than by the public vote.
How the new dance-off will work
The three couples with the lowest combined judges' scores and public votes will dance again next week, after which the judges will eliminate one pair. The change was announced during Sunday's episode on October 25. It applies for one week only, as Strictly will return to a two-couple dance-off for the rest of the series.
Fans have not welcomed the twist. @supertv247 said: "It’s confirmed! There will be a THREE-WAY dance-off next week on #Strictly. But only ONE couple will leave the commotion, as the judges vote to eliminate for the first time ever." @405Norris said: "this twist is ridiculous i really don’t like it #strictly"
Viewer reactions and weekend highlights
@becca_x94 said: "No but what actually is the point of a three person dance off" @kaaaaaatie_x added: " cannot express how much i hate this three-couple dance off twist #strictly" @shakywoon said: " Three-way dance-off next week and the judges will have to decide which couple will be sending home rather Than to save!" @anthonTony said: "#Strictly resorting to Xfactor style twists to try save the results viewing figures.. The show is on its last legs #strictlycomedancing"
On Saturday, Winter Olympics champion Tabby Stoecker topped the overall leaderboard following the return of Delta Goodrem, scoring two 10s for her couple's choice to Stupid Song by Olivia Rodrigo. She ended with a total score of 37, the highest of the series so far. Her dance with pro partner Mark Karmalita was dedicated to her late father, and she appeared tearful afterwards, with judge Shirley Ballas praising her as a "beautiful dancer".
What's next for the show
The results show also saw Spice Girls star Mel C join the professional dancers for a fitness-inspired group dance, which received a lukewarm response. The remaining couples will return to the dancefloor next Saturday at 6.30pm on BBC One for the Strictly Come Dancing Halloween special.
