Who Remains in the Season of Strictly Come Dancing?

“Strictly Come Dancing,” often called “Strictly,” is a British television dance competition that has captivated audiences since its premiere in 2004. Airing on BBC One, the show pairs celebrities with professional dancers who compete in a range of ballroom and Latin dances. These couples perform live each week, judged by a panel and the public vote, determining who remains in the competition and who is eliminated.

What distinguishes “Strictly” is its combination of high-stakes competition with heartwarming personal stories. The show features everything from the celebrities’ nervous initial performances to the refined routines of the professionals, blending drama, comedy, romance, and dance. While the glittering costumes and intricate choreography are mesmerizing, the contestants’ personal journeys truly engage the audience.

Over the years, “Strictly Come Dancing” has evolved into a cultural phenomenon. It showcases various celebrities—from actors and musicians to athletes and TV personalities—each adding their unique touch to the dance floor. Beyond entertainment, the show often sparks national discussions about performances, judges’ scores, and dramatic dance-offs.

The dynamic between dance partners, the thrill of perfect scores, and the drama of unexpected eliminations make “Strictly” a weekly spectacle that brings viewers together in excitement and anticipation.

The 2023 season of “Strictly Come Dancing” has been a thrilling ride, with fans eagerly tuning in week after week for the spectacular dance routines and the surprising changes in the celebrity lineup. Here’s a summary of the departures and the reasons behind them:

• Nigel Harman was one of the early exits, not due to a public vote or judges’ decision but because of an injury. The former “Casualty” and “EastEnders” actor had to bow out, leaving fans disappointed but understanding, given the physical demands of the competition.
• Amanda Abbington also withdrew from the competition, which shocked many. A statement confirmed her departure, leaving her dance partner, Giovanni Pernice, without a partner. This exit was particularly noted for its emotional impact, as Abbington had quickly become a favourite among viewers.
• The show saw its share of eliminations through the traditional dance-off, where the judges make the final call:
  • Annabel Croft was the 10th celebrity to leave, facing off against Bobby Brazier in what was described as a closely contested dance-off. Despite a commendable performance, the judges’ decision favoured Bobby, marking Annabel’s exit from the competition.
  • Angela Rippon also faced the dance-off, but her departure was met with mixed reactions from fans; some felt her elimination was influenced by her history with the show, aiming for a dramatic narrative rather than purely on dance merit.
• Beyond the competition, there was significant off-stage news:
  • Giovanni Pernice, a beloved professional dancer, reportedly decided not to return to “Strictly Come Dancing” for the upcoming season, focusing instead on other television projects. Given his long-standing association with the show, this announcement came as a surprise to many.
• The social media platforms was abuzz with reactions:
  • Fans expressed their dismay over certain eliminations, with some feeling that decisions were only sometimes based on dance quality but perhaps on narrative or popularity. For instance, Angela Rippon’s exit was hotly debated, with some accusing the judges of keeping her for Blackpool week due to her connection to the show’s history.
  • Many mourned Amanda Abbington‘s departure, with posts filled with love and support for her and Giovanni, highlighting the emotional connection viewers form with the contestants.

The 2023 season of “Strictly Come Dancing” has been about the dance and the stories behind the dancers. Each departure, whether through injury, withdrawal, or elimination, adds a layer of drama and human interest that keeps the audience engaged, proving why this show remains a staple of British television.