Devoted fans of Strictly Come Dancing are voicing a shared apprehension about the show's grand finale, following the unexpected withdrawal of contestant La Voix due to injury. The concern centres on the possibility of a less thrilling two-couple final, a scenario many viewers are hoping to avoid.
Blackpool Dreams Dashed by Injury
This weekend marks a milestone in the Strictly calendar as the competition moves to the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom for its legendary special episode. However, the celebrations will be bittersweet as one star will be conspicuously absent from the famous dancefloor.
La Voix, the Ru Paul's Drag Race star, announced via Instagram that she has been forced to pull out of the Blackpool week. In a heartfelt statement, she expressed her "immense sadness" at the development, citing an injury that has prevented her from performing.
"It is with immense sadness that I have to withdraw from this weekend’s Strictly Come Dancing shows in Blackpool," La Voix shared. "Due to an injury, I’ve been advised that I’m unable to perform, and my heart truly breaks knowing I won’t be dancing in such an iconic venue."
She added that she and her professional partner, Aljaž, were "devastated" but that her focus is now on recovery. Despite her disappointment, she pledged to cheer on the remaining couples.
Fan Fears of a Predictable Showdown
The absence of La Voix has sparked a wave of speculation amongst the show's dedicated fanbase on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The prevailing worry is that her exit could lead to a foregone conclusion in the final stages of the competition.
One viewer articulated the collective fear, writing: "The way we could end up with one of the most predictable finals ever if La Voix doesn't return next week. I worry we may only get a Lewis Vs Amber final."
This prediction points towards actors Lewis Cope and Amber Davies, both of whom are stand-in celebrities for originally announced contestants who were also injured. The potential for two replacement stars to battle for the Glitterball Trophy has been noted by fans as a particular irony.
Calls for a Three-Couple Final
The prospect of a two-person final has been met with significant resistance from the audience. Many have taken to social media to express their hope that the producers will find a way to ensure a three-couple finale, which is traditionally seen as more exciting and competitive.
One fan commented, "I hope not. Two in the final feels fixed." Another simply stated, "Surely they won't have a two people final," while a third described the potential scenario as "incredibly boring."
Some viewers have suggested solutions, with one proposing: "I think Strictly should do everything they can to avoid this, the easiest way would be no elimination this week."
According to the official rules of the competition, La Voix will receive a bye into the following week, assuming she is fit to return. Her participation in the next round is now the key factor that could either alleviate or confirm fans' fears about the predictability of the final.