Strictly Come Dancing viewers have expressed disappointment with Dani Dyer and Nikita Kuzmin, saying the partnership is 'leaving them cold' this year. The duo, who were reunited for the 2026 series after injury forced Dani to withdraw in 2025, received criticism following their Rumba performance.
Reunion and Early Promise
Dani, 30, and Nikita, 28, were originally paired together in 2025, but their journey ended before the live shows when Dani fractured her ankle during rehearsals. In an unprecedented move, the BBC programme brought the returning celebrity back with her original professional partner.
The pair were formally reunited during the September 19 launch episode via a speed-dancing challenge. Nikita admitted he shed "tears of joy" upon learning they would dance together again, while Dani said she was "over the moon" and thankful for the reunion.
Viewer Reactions to the Rumba
Following their Rumba to Mariah Carey's "Hero" on the October 17 broadcast, several viewers took to X to comment on the couple's 'lack of connection'. One viewer wrote: "I do like Dani and Nikita, but this Rumba really showed the lack of chemistry. That was so cold."
Another added: "I agree. I think him and Dani get along just fine but the chemistry just isn't there. Nikita is my fav pro so I'm a bit sad that I'm not feeling this partnership like I thought I would." A third commented: "Sadly agree, compared to Amber (Davies) last year their partnership leaves me a bit cold."
Judges' Scores and Behind the Scenes
The routine earned the couple 25 out of 40 (6 + 6 + 6 + 7), failing to impress the judges. However, head judge Shirley Ballas praised Dani's "beautiful" form, noting: "Your timing was very good. You had quite difficult choreography."
Off the dance floor, Dani has praised Nikita, saying her children adore "Princess Nikita" after he dressed up during their Disney routine week. She revealed her youngsters keep asking for him to join them for breakfast, and her husband Jared has become devoted to cheering them on.
Controversy and Next Steps
The pairing initially sparked mild controversy on social media, with some viewers questioning whether they had an "unfair advantage" due to their previous training together, though the criticism quickly subsided.
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 6:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
