Strictly Come Dancing viewers took to social media to question the high scores awarded to Will Best and Dianne Buswell after their week five Cha Cha on October 24, citing a timing mistake during the routine.
The pair, who host Emma Willis noted have "bonded over both being new parents," danced to the song Daddy. Before the performance, Dianne and Will were shown in a cafe with his newborn, Sonny Best, who was welcomed with fiancée Tobi Rose on the morning of Sunday, October 11.
Judges Praise the Routine
Performing on a 1950s-style set, the pair wore vintage attire, with Will in tailored trousers and a purple tie and Dianne in a retro pink dress. They pushed old-fashioned prams, and playful baby sound effects were heard.
Shirley Ballas noted a missed Cuban break but was otherwise thrilled, saying: "You missed your Cuban break, it’s a small mistake, but I'm so entertained by you. Your feet were at five-to-one, your body action is starting to get fluidity...You're going to be a force to be reckoned with."
Anton Du Beke praised his development since his week-one Samba, remarking on his straight legs, arm placement, and rhythmic hip action. Motsi Mabuse praised his solo opening and quick footwork, calling him "one to watch."
Viewers Question the Scores
When the paddles went up, Craig Revel Horwood awarded a seven, while Motsi, Shirley, and Anton each gave an eight, earning the pair a total of 31. Despite the praise inside the ballroom, viewers on social media were less convinced, with many pointing to a timing breakdown during the routine's middle section.
One viewer said: "I must have been watching something different cos I thought Will’s dance was terrible?" Another added: "Highest-marked Cha Cha of the series and it had a big glaring mistake in the middle of it? What are those scores all about?"
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
Others pointed out the visible panic during the routine, with one viewer writing: "Can't deal with Dianne trying to signal to Will mid-dance that he wasn't in time." Fans also shared that they thought scoring was inconsistent compared to other contestants. One X user said: "I love Will, but how come Lawrence got a really hard time for his mistakes yet Will didn't? So inconsistent."
Not everyone agreed, however. Other fans defended the routine, arguing that despite the arguable wobble, Will proved himself as one of the competition's great dancers. One said: "What a brilliant Cha Cha from Will and Dianne. Will is such a natural mover and he's incredibly entertaining. A little mistake, hence the slight deduction, but that was a great dance." Another echoed: "Will did really well in the Cha Cha - hips good and straight legs, love watching him. Worth an 8!"
