Strictly Come Dancing’s Movie Week concluded on Sunday with the nerve-wracking results show.
Last week, the results sparked outrage when Toyah Willcox was saved over Tom Dean after the majority of the public seemed to be of the opinion the Olympian was the stronger dancer, with fans calling the show “a fix”.
This week, singer-songwriter Willcox, 66, was disappointed to once again find herself in the dance-off with partner Neil Jones, 42.
Joining them in the dreaded position was former footballer Paul Merson, 56, and Karen Hauer, 42.
After each couple performed their routines once again with the hope of convincing the judges they should keep their place in the competition, it was time for the all-important decision to be made.
Craig Revel Horwood commented first, reflecting: “One couple… Their timing was slightly out and also there was a loss of balance and the other couple, I thought, did better the second time around – and the couple I would like to save – Paul and Karen.”
Motsi Mabuse agreed with the decision as she shared: “I actually think both couples gave their best, I think both had tiny mistakes and musical mistakes, but one gave a stronger performance and I’ll be saving Paul and Karen.”
Anton Du Beke was the third to vote in the couple’s favour, meaning they were saved.
“It wasn’t a flawless performance from either couple,” he admitted, adding: “One had a stronger attack in the dance, better quality of technicality, and the couple I’d like to save is Paul and Karen.”
Shirley Ballas also confessed she would have saved Merson and Hauer, as Willcox and Jones gracefully accepted their time on the show was over.
However, while many fans complained last week about Willcox’s save, her exit didn’t seem to please many viewers, with several calling for Dean to be brought back.
Taking to X, one penned: “After this I’m even more annoyed.”
“Saved toyah over tom (who actually had potential to improve and go further) last week, only for her to go home this week #strictly,” another posted.
“Still p***ed that Tom left last week #Strictly,” another fumed as someone else begged: “#strictly cant they send both home and bring back tom dean!”
“Save neither and bring back Tom! #strictly #StrictlyComeDancing,” another echoed.
Expressing their relief, one shared: “Thank Christ for that! But Toyah should have gone last week and all the judges know it. #StrictlyComeDancing #Strictly.”
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“Thank god! Just wish we could have Tom back though. #Strictly,” someone else added.
Paying tribute to his dance partner, Jones stated after the elimination: “She’s [Willcox] made me laugh so much. I’ve never seen someone work so hard – I’m the one asking for breaks!”
He concluded: “She’s brilliant and she’s what Strictly’s all about.”
“Had to be Neil,” Willcox remarked, beaming: “I felt so comfortable and safe, and you’re a great teacher and a great friend as well.”
