Strictly Come Dancing fans have branded Graeme Hall an "absolute inspiration" and the "deserving winner" of the 2026 series, as the competition reaches its halfway point.
The show is set to conclude just before Christmas. Last week saw the first ever three-way dance off, which resulted in actor Lawrence Robb being eliminated along with his professional dance partner Jowita Pryzstal.
Jaime Winstone Sits Out With Injury
Actor Jaime Winstone and her dance partner Carlos Gu are missing from this week's competition after she tore an abdominal muscle. The BBC announced the news on Wednesday (4 November), explaining that doctors have advised the actor to rest this week.
A spokesperson said: "In line with the rules of the show, Jaime and Carlos will receive a bye through to next week when it is hoped they will be able to dance again. We wish Jaime the very best as she continues her recovery."
Graeme's Emotional Return
During Saturday night's episode, fans took to social media to praise Graeme after he delivered a heartfelt message about his journey back to health following a stroke in 2019, before performing with his professional dance partner Lauren Oakley.
On X, formerly Twitter, @Attila_hun said: "Graeme is the deserving winner of this series. Such a nice man!!!", and @jack7721_ wrote: "Grahame is an absolute inspiration."
Strictly fan @Kendal_ wrote: "Graeme has absolutely stolen my heart this series. There is something so incredibly grounding and endearing about this. What a truly gorgeous human."
@spaceyamb said, "Lauren and Graeme truly outstanding. What a special dance", and @xlouclifton96x added: "Just want to thank Graeme for telling his story through his couple's choice with Lauren. It was so beautiful to watch; it made me emotional seeing his reaction when he finished his dance."
Touched by the pre-performance message, @sasha_ddm wrote on X: "As someone who watched a family member go through a stroke last year (though sadly their story didn't have a happy ending) I am in tears over here. That was absolutely beautiful and I am so, so happy that Graeme has recovered and is able to dance like this."
Judges' Feedback and Scores
Receiving a score of 28, the judges offered their feedback. Motsi said: "We only have one life and I'm glad you're here with us today, emotional and moving, although I want more stretch and extension."
Shirley said: "You powered across the floor and shifted your weight, keep extending but I'm all emotional".
Anton told them: "A theatrical, lyrical American smooth, the perfect number for you, you danced with Lauren beautifully, swept her around and lifted her well, a joy", with Craig adding "not a technical masterpiece but you were reliving a moment in time and bringing someone to life, emotion is just as important".
Elsewhere in the show, fans complained about Lacey Turner and Vito Coppola landing the "death slot" with an unpopular rumba dance. The results show will air at 7.10pm on Sunday, November 8, on BBC One and iPlayer.
