Strictly Come Dancing professional Vito Coppola has responded to judge Craig Revel Horwood after his criticism of Lacey Turner's Foxtrot, with fans also calling the comments harsh.
During Saturday night's show (November 14), the remaining couples faced a range of reactions from the judges, with Craig Revel Horwood particularly critical of several routines. With just one week to go until the famous Blackpool trip, expectations were higher, but Lacey Turner and Vito Coppola's Foxtrot to 'Have You Met Miss Jones?' by Robbie Williams drew criticism.
Craig's Criticism and Vito's Response
Craig did not hold back, saying: "It wasn't a Foxtrot, so i don't know how we're meant to judge it. There was literally 10 bars of Foxtrot and Foxtrot is not an open dance. I mean, you could have saved this for an American Smooth."
Vito then politely interrupted Craig to defend their routine. He replied: "70% should be Foxtrot, so 30% is open so literally I didn't break the rules. I respect your opinion, so so much, I do. But I take full responsibility because I created the choreography, so the responsibility is ours as a pro, and so you (Lacey) don't have anything to worry about, because you've been amazing, you're beautiful and I'm so, so proud of you."
Other Routines Under Fire
Earlier in the show, Craig also called out Dani Dyer and Nikita's Pasodoble over illegal lifts. He said: "Listen, that could have been absolutely fantastic that dance, but it was littered with illegal lifts. I mean, we've let some go on the show but honestly you're taking the mick, darling with literally four massive lifts in that. One foot should remain on the floor at all times is the rule and you know that. So I had to mark you down."
Fans React and High Scores
Fans on social media praised Vito for standing up for Lacey, questioning why the judges are "blaming" the celebrities for mistakes in a routine. On X, @tvmusings26 wrote: "Vito taking full responsibility because he knows Lacey should not be penalised for it and that's what makes him one of the best pros they've ever had!!!" @steph832 added: "All of a sudden the judges are reading a rule book? Well done to Vito for defending himself."
Elsewhere, Cach Mercer and Maddie Ingoldsby had an impressive night as the tables turned the week before Blackpool, scoring 39 points for their Charleston to 'Blame It on the Boogie' by The Jacksons.
