Viewers Split Over Shirley Ballas' Choice to Eliminate Layton from BBC's Strictly Results Show

2023-11-29 11:15:03

Controversy Surrounds Shirley Ballas' Vote in Recent Strictly Come Dancing Results

Strictly Come Dancing audiences experienced a moment of surprise during the latest results show, leading to a divide in viewer opinions.

Angela Scanlon was eliminated from the competition, bowing out just before the quarter-finals after a dance-off against Layton Williams, who has frequently ranked at the top of the leaderboard.

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Given Williams' consistent high performance, his appearance in the bottom two came as a shock to many. Together with ex-Coronation Street actor Ellie Leach, he is tipped as a strong contestant to win the entire show.

There was a general expectation for Scanlon's departure once the results came in. Nevertheless, a tide could have seen Williams exit the show instead.

In such a tie situation, Shirley Ballas, as head judge, holds the decisive vote. After her fellow judges—Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke—chose to send Scanlon home, Ballas admitted to host Tess Daly her preference to eliminate Williams if given the opportunity.

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"Important for me always when it comes to Ballroom and Latin is the character of the dance - that it's true to the dance, timing and quality," Ballas commented. "I would have voted to save Angela and Carlos," she revealed.

These remarks followed criticisms from Ballas on Saturday's show, where she expressed high expectations from Williams. Describing his American Smooth routine, she found it "a little bit more gestural and fun" but criticized it for lacking smoothness and adequate space.

Despite the audience's disapproval, Anton Du Beke supported Ballas, calling her "brave" for articulating her thoughts.

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Viewer reactions were split regarding Ballas' critique of Williams. Some applauded her for being "spot on," while others speculated if she harbored any unfair bias against the musical theatre performer due to his prior dancing experience.

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Support for Williams came from fans who admired his talent but agreed with Ballas' perspective on his dance routines. Others voiced their unease, suspecting a personal issue between Ballas and Williams influenced her judgement calls.

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Scanlon, on her part, expressed heartfelt disappointment at her departure but felt grateful for the "incredible" journey and her strong bond with professional partner Carlos Gu.

As an emotional Scanlon praised her time on the show and her partner's support, Carlos Gu reciprocated, commending her hard work and sense of humor that brought joy to their daily practice.

As the dance competition heats up, Strictly Come Dancing is set to continue, keeping viewers eagerly anticipating the next performances.

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