Midway mark reached next time
Thanks for watching along with me, glitterball gang. Our nifty nine now progress to the seventh live show, which marks the halfway point of the contest. Blackpool Tower Ballroom is nearly in sight. They can almost smell the Big One. Ahem.
It airs at next Saturday at 6.25pm on BBC1. Meet you back here to rave, rate and slate the routines – followed by the Remembrance Sunday results show. Always a poignant one. In the meantime, it’s the usual advice: keeeeep dancing! Goodnight and have a fulfilling week.
Finally, on musical guest Cat Burns, fihema says: “‘Life is like the Truman Show’ sings Cat Burns, reality show star. Trying to be human. The subtext is strong here...”
Somersetlass says: “Gosh, Cat’s got a beautiful voice, and that was an ethereal dance from Michelle and Nancy.”
girlpanic adds: “I’m disappointed that Cat Burns isn’t in her Traitors cloak. But lovely to see her performing as I hadn’t heard of her before the show.”
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MarkRoche says: “So sorry for Balvinder. Another undeserved dance-off for her. I can’t get why she’s not connecting with the voters at home.”
Fihema adds: “The song is called Stay. And I hope she does. Bal is such an elegant dancer and she’s been dealt a tough hand, dance-off-wise. I really enjoy Ellie’s dancing, but if the judges are looking at technique etc.... well, we’ll see.”
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Sueserafina says: “Vito, in the best way, is such a woman’s man. I saw him on Dianne’s vlogs, hanging out with her and the girls and doing their lippy for them. He said his Mum had a beauty salon and he used to hang out there with all the women. I want a world filled with little Vito bambinos.”
Audreyshandbag says: “Ellie has taken it like a champ! What a fantastic young woman she is!”
SparklingDormouse adds: “I do think Ellie’s gracious way of dealing with that (so sad, I think she was good enough for another week or more) puts some of the whining from other contestants in context a bit.”
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On Ellie and Vito’s exit, SnailyWhaley: “Curse of the weird rabbit costume, I fear. Whose idea was that?”
MikeMoonlight says: “This must rank alongside Watership Down and Fatal Attraction in the ‘Most Shocking Exit Of a Bunny Rabbit In Screen History’ stakes.”
emilyscatnaps says: “There is only one word for you, Ellie. A-MAY-ZING!!!”
IvanTiger says: “Dance-wise, right couple saved. But for joy and razzle-dazzle, Ellie will be missed.”
acanthe says: “I really liked that Craig got straight to the point and didn’t add any further suspense when making his choice. I thought that was very thoughtful.”
Reclinedpotato says: “I usually can’t stand the speeches after the dance -ff but Vito has made me weep tonight. Can’t really believe they’ve voted Ellie off.”
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On the dance-off couples, Somersetlass says: “Oh no! For both of them. Love Balvinder going to comfort Ellie and Ellie saying she’s OK. She’s stronger than we think.”
Poppieshen adds: “No real surprises in tonight’s dance off candidates because everyone raised their game. I still think Harry and George were the weakest dancers yesterday but that’s the way the votes have gone.”
On tonight’s pro group dance, Storm says: “Halloween Rocky Horror-inspired dance. Here all day and night for it.”
EmmyHarb says: “Nice to see Gorks in the group dance.”
Somersetlass adds: “Great to see Gorka and that was a fun professional dance but I’m yearning for some proper ballroom or Latin, as well as some lighting that doesn’t hurt my dodgy eyes.”
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Readers’ verdicts are in
Time for a rapid-fire round-up of your comments. Strictlylounging says “Genuinely thought George might have been in the dance off. He needs to up his game next week, I think.”
pubbore says “If George isn’t watching himself back, that’s probably why he’s not getting better.”
dmr95 adds “Should have been Harry instead of Balvinder! She should survive, hopefully.”
From choreography to crochet
TV viewers can now stay on BBC1 for Antiques Roadshow, head to BBC4 for Inside Classical: Halloween Spooktacular or flip to Channel 4 for new Tom-Daley hosted contest Game Of Wool: Britain’s Best Knitter.
At 9pm, choose from Riot Women on BBC1, Trigger Point on ITV1, Hunted on Channel 4 or Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing on BBC2.
Tonight’s film recommendations are Kiss of the Dragon (9.35pm on Great Action), The Remains of the Day (10.45pm on BBC2) or George Michael: Portrait of an Artist (11pm on Channel 4). Guilty feet have got no rhythm indeed.
Amber should stop moaning and start dazzling
She got a wake-up call last week by plummeting into the bottom two, despite being the second highest scorer in the series so far. Yet Love Island alumna-turned-actor Amber Davies comfortably survived the dance-off and successfully swerved it this time. She just needs to be careful she doesn’t get a reputation for weepy whinging.
She spent too long on Saturday’s live show behaving like it was some sort of national tragedy, before complaining of nerves. All the celebrities suffer from those, especially Balvinder and Vicky Pattison.
She got tearful again tonight. Amber already lacks public backing due to her prior dance experience and such self-pity won’t endear her to viewers. As dearly departed Len Goodman once told Will Young, it’s time to “turn up, keep up and shut up”. Delivering on the dancefloor is her best route to salvation.
Big relief for the boys
Breathing the two biggest sighs of relief tonight were YouTuber George Clarke and Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. The artist also known as Nitro was left bottom of the scoreboard after his mistake-strewn, Bacofoil-slacked American smooth but saved by viewer votes.
Meanwhile, George continues to plateau after a promising start to the contest, with other celebrities overtaking him as they improve. His scores have slipped from the early 30s to the late 20s, taking him from potential finalist to elimination fodder. Both need to raise their game in the coming weeks or they might not make it to Blackpool.
Survivor Sopal escapes again
It wasn’t the third time unlucky for Balvinder Sopal after all. The EastEnders actor has now been undeservedly dumped in a hat-trick of dance-offs but she’s performed well and survived every time. Testament to her resilience. Having rightly seen off Ross King and Chris Robshaw, she now had the unenviable task of knocking out Ellie Goldstein.
Still, Balvinder should take heart from the fact that she’s overcome these hurdles and made it to the midway mark of the contest. Her scores have been stuck at 28 points for the past three weeks. If she can turn those sevens into eights, she might just cling on for a few more weeks. Time to let go and take some risks because she’s got little to lose.
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Vito is fast becoming a national treasure
What a total gem Vito Coppola is. Added to the professional troupe just three years ago, he not only has a stellar Strictly record – reaching the final every series, including a glitterball win with Ellie Leach – but is one of the most adorable pros, rivalled only for beloved status by castmate Johannes Radebe.
The Italian stallion has only enhanced his reputation this year. He’s clearly not only a great teacher but a gorgeous human being. His partnership with Ellie Goldstein, endearingly dubbed the “Cheeky Team”, has been a sheer delight. Matching each other for energy and enthusiasm, the pair’s sweet, sibling-like bond has been truly special to see. Vito adapted his methods to teach Ellie more visually and cleverly choreographed routines to showcase her sunny star quality.
He also deployed his culinary skills – he’s reigning Celebrity MasterChef champion, after all – to make pizzas and puddings for long training days. His exit speech was a lip-wobbler and he didn’t even seem to mind leaving while wearing a bunny costume. Everybody needs a Vito in their life.
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Ellie is gone too early but shone like a star
It probably had to happen soon. She’s the second lowest scorer left in the contest, above only the resurgent La Voix, and finished one point off the bottom of the Halloween leaderboard.
However, many Strictly fans will be heartbroken to see Ellie Goldstein depart the dancefloor she’s lit up over the last two months. Another week or two would have been ideal but this year’s youngest contestant goes with the nation’s goodwill and gratitude.
This firecracker of charisma has been a joy to watch. Golden Goldstein got on famously with pro partner Vito Coppola and translated that bond on to the dancefloor. She loved the glamour and glitter, had great musicality and is a natural born performer who sold routines hard. Her highlights were her sensational Barbie samba, joyous K-pop Couple’s Choice and sassy Spice Girls samba. Slower dance styles and technically tricky ballroom numbers were always likely to be more challenging. So it proved, with Ellie bowing out on a tango. I’d feared she might be fatigued and overwhelmed by the dance-off but once again, she defied all expectations.
She’s already made history by becoming the first model with Down’s syndrome to grace the cover of Vogue and partnering with Mattel to produce the first Barbie doll with Down’s. Now the mould-breaking 23-year-old notched up another milestone by becoming Strictly’s first contestant with Down’s. Another step forward for inclusivity, it made for the feelgood story of the series.
The irrepressible force of nature brought sparkle and happiness to our TV screens, just when it was what viewers needed. Ellie’s positive impact as a role model and myth-buster shouldn’t be underestimated. We’ll miss you, Cheeky Team.
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Ellie and Vito’s last dance
Ellie says Craig is the “best judge ever”. I agree. As the eliminated pair take a farewell trip around the ballroom to Ghost Town by The Specials, their castmates descend for cuddles and the credits roll. Please stay with us for analysis and reaction.
Ellie returns the compliment
Asked how much she enjoyed dancing with Vito, Ellie Goldstein says: “I’ve enjoyed it so much! He is a kind person and all I wanted from day one. You have been so heartwarming. Thank you, Vito.”
Vito then reassures Ellie that they will keep dancing together. I truly hope so. Ellie jumps for joy.
Vito salutes his “little sister forever”
Tess Daly says to Vito Coppola: “Everyone behind the scenes, everyone in front of the camera and everyone at home can see what an incredible partnership you’ve had with Ellie and just how much it means to you.”
Vito tells Ellie Goldstein: “Honestly, there are no words I can use to describe how proud I am of you. You really did change my life so much. You made me such a better person. At the beginning of this year, I said to myself please, please, please can you send me a beautiful angel into my life? And then you arrived. I’ve never had a little sister but I always wanted one. Now I have you. You’re my little sister forever and your big brother is always by your side.”
Oh lordy. Something in my eye.
Head judge Shirley Ballas agrees
Her casting vote wasn’t needed but the Queen Of Latin would also have saved Balvinder and Julian, adding that she thought “Ellie was also outstanding throughout the whole competition”. Well said.
Ellie Goldstein is eliminated
There we have it. The trailblazing model and actress becomes the fifth celebrity to be eliminated and the sixth overall to depart the Strictly 2025 dancefloor.
Motsi Mabuse chooses to save…
Balvinder and Julian, saying “music is key”.
Craig Revel Horwood chooses to save…
Balvinder and Julian, saying “it was the better dance on the night”.
Anton du Beke chooses to save…
Balvinder and Julian, saying “a terrific battle, both danced better”.
Decision time
Over to the paddle-raising panel. All the judges gave both dances sevens last night – except for Craig, who scored Ellie a six. Could that prove crucial? Let’s find out.
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Balvinder and Julian take their turn
Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon have another go at their rumba to Stay by Shakespears Sister.
The judges said last night that it was sensual and expressive. Her upper body was exquisite but they wanted more stability and clearer weight transference down below. It scored 28 points, one more than Ellie, so Bal needs to maintain or even raise the standard here.
Ellie and Vito go first in dance-off
Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola reprise their rabbit-in-a-hat tango to Abracadabra by Lady Gaga.
The judges said last night that it was strongly performed but needed more musicality and she got out of time in hold. It notched 27 points, just one fewer than Balvinder, so this could be a close call.
Nice evil eye effect on Cat Burns at the end there. Maybe they’ll do that on Thursday night too.
Unfaithful, the floor is yours
Musical interlude now from singer-songwriter (and Celebrity Traitors star) Cat Burns. She’s performing the title track from her new album, How To Be Human. The lyrics address her autism: “I wonder if they can tell / That I’m not like them / But I’m trying to be human.”
Choreographic accompaniment is provided by Michelle Tsiakkas and Nancy Xu #justicefornancy.
Amber Davies is tearful
She gets totes emosh about being voted through. She and Nikita are dancing salsa next week to Sylvester’s You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real). Tune.
Harry and Amber do get their moment after all
I spoke too soon. Good to see a slight format tweak as the last two relieved couples chat in the Clauditorium. Harry and Karen are dancing a samba next week to Gloria Estefan. Do that samba!
Which means Amber and Harry are safe
The last two pairs puff out of their cheeks and progress to next week. A shame that this new format means they don’t get a Clauditorium chat like the others.
Ellie Goldstein faces Balvinder in the dance-off
That surprises me. Ellie and her pro partner Vito Coppola are in the dance-off for the first time. Ellie looks gutted.
Balvinder Sopal in dance-off for third time
Shame. Balvinder and her pro partner Julian Caillon are consigned to the dreaded dance-off for the third time in four weeks. But who will they be up against?
Dreaded red light returns
Now to find out who else is safe – and who might not be. Buckle up.
Craig’s last 10s this early were for Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice, I’m informed by the ever-clever commenters.
Shirley Ballas loses a shoe during demo time and Craig gallantly puts it back on for her. Were they red-soled Louboutins? I was too busy looking at the reinforced toe on her tights.
Dance debrief
The paddle-raising panel sashay up to the Clauditorium for a closer look at last night’s routines. Six 10s on Halloween night has only happened once before, apparently. Answers on a postcard as to when. Craig Revel Horwood hasn’t whipped up his 10 paddle this early for four years either. Answers on a postcard again.
Choreographed by Elizabeth Honan, the number sees Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu receive an invitation to Monsters’ Ball.
As the music switches into a Janet Jackson-esque breakdown, it’s theatrical-meets-military in style, with sharp moves, leaping off banqueting tables and elements of jive. Bwa-ha-ha. Don’t have dance nightmares.
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You shall go to the ball
Time for a suitably spookacious group number from the Strictly pros, set to Chuck Berry’s You Never Can Tell (memories of Jay McGuiness’ Pulp Fiction jive).
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George does Queen next time
Johannes Radebe is “proud beyond words” of Alex Kingston.
George Clarke still laughs at the sight of himself dancing but is dancing a Viennese waltz to Queen’s Somebody To Love next weekend.
Swifties assemble next Saturday
Vicky Pattison modestly say she doesn’t measure up to the other couples. She had 12 bridesmaids at her “big fat Geordie wedding” last year, giving Lewis Cope’s siblings a run for their money. She’s dancing a Taylor Swift tango next week.
La Voix namechecks some “lovely ladies from Eastbourne”. Kaz Carney says Strictly Saturdays are her happy place. She’s dancing a Charleston next week, which should suit her fast feet.
Forget Blackpool, here's Hartlepool
Up in the Clauditorium with the happy couples who are safely through to next week, Lewis Cope discusses his Nanna Dot’s pride and Katya’a sixth sense. Next week, they’re dancing a cha cha cha.
Karen Carney is safe
Rightly so. So are La Voix, Lewis Cope, George Clarke, Alex Kingston and Vicky Pattison. And that’s where they leave it for now, the big teases.
Red light spells dance-off danger
Stand by, the spotlight of doom is about to do its worst.
Our Strictly stars™
Our 10 terrifying pairings wait to hear their fates. Wigs, make-up and novelty millinery are still in full effect. It’ll be an especially nervy night for the quartet of celebs clustered at the bottom of the scoreboard – namely Harry, Ellie, Balvinder and George.
The paddle-raising panel of Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Shirley Ballas take their seats.
They’ll have a decision to make in around 35 minutes. At least they’ve taken off the fancy dress to do so. It might undermine their judgely authority if they were still in full trick-or-treating mode.
Last night’s live show recapped
A rewind of Saturday night’s Halloween Spooktcular action on-screen now. Lewis Cope on top! Karen Carney just behind! La Voix hits her peak! So does devilish Johannes Radebe!
Frockwatch
Here come our hosts with the ghostly most, so let’s do a swift couture comparison. Tess Daly is in full-length black sparkly gown with weird cut-out bits. Claudia Winkleman is a chic black mini-dress. Claud wins, making it a clean sweep for her this weekend. Although some commenters preferred Tess’ ensemble last night, I noticed. Fashion, eh?
Cue clap-along credits. Which of these couples is about to be sent to the pumpkin patch of dance disgrace?
Aaaaand we’re off!
A behind-the-scenes VT to open proceedings. The hair and make-up departments were especially busy. Wonder if they got in some children’s party face-painters as back-up?
Swiftly smear on some green face-paint and shove a bolt through your neck. We’re about to return to the Elstree Studios ballroom…
Cat Burns in the Elstree castle conclave
Musical guest tonight is Celebrity Traitors star Cat Burns. Wonder if Claudia will don a chunky knit and fingerless gloves for the occasion? Maybe Celia Imrie will join in on parpy percussion.
Just a couple of minutes until spangly showtime…
The last episode of Hamza’s Hidden Wild Isles drawing to a close on BBC1 right now. Mr Yassin’s Halloween dance three years ago was a tango to Wicked Game.
The same week as Fleur East’s Beyoncé salsa, Kym Marsh’s Madonna rumba and Tyler West’s Day-O cha-cha *comes over all misty-eyed*. A mere five minutes to wait now…
Twirly Shirley gets the casting vote
This series, the judging panel are taking it in turns to have the deciding dance-off vote. It was announced on last night’s live show that this week the honour goes to… drumroll please… dramatic pause… head judge Shirley Ballas. So just like normal, then.
A mere 10 minutes until the sequin-spangled curtain comes up…
A dispatch from Down Under
An email just in from reader Libs Bennett in Australia:
Longtime reader from Oz here. Wow, what a night! Got to admit having seen her previous dances and the judges’ past comments, I was pretty sceptical of La Voix’s score and assumed she was overmarked. Having now seen her dance (thank you, BBC, for your timely uploads to YouTube), I still think she was slightly overmarked but absolutely her best dance and definitely deserved to be scored in the 30s.
As someone who doesn’t think Couple’s Choice should be in a ballroom/Latin dance competition, I wanted to hate Lewis and Katya’s dance but I couldn’t. It was just phenomenal.
Every year there seems to be a contestant who’s marked harsher than the rest and this year, I swear it’s Balvinder. She’s not the best dancer in the competition but she is better than her scores show.
Finally, as a masc lesbian for whom the Argentine tango is second only to the Viennese waltz as my favourite dance, Karen and Carlos’s routine was the stuff of my dreams. From costuming to choreography and the choice of song, it was just “chef’s kiss”.
Ghosts and ghouls beneath the glitterball
Tonight’s group number from the Strictly pros is themed around a monster’s ball. Should be quite the supernatural spectacle. Twenty minutes until glitter o’clock…
Flurry of 10s last night
On a historic Halloween special, maximum scores were awarded to two routines: Lewis Cope’s dazzling Couple’s Choice notched the first perfect 40 of the series and was hailed as one of the best ever Strictly dances, while Karen Carney returned to form in spine-tingling style. Her Peaky Blinders-themed Argentine tango was awarded two 10s.
High-standard hoofing for week six. It’s 25 minutes until we’re back in the ballroom…
La Voix might have saved her skin but Balvinder at risk
Coming into this weekend, bookmakers’ tips for elimination were La Voix and Balvinder Sopal.
La Voix’s Queen Of Hearts paso doble was by far her best dance yet, taking her to joint third on the leaderboard. Balvinder, however, was left third from bottom after the ever-tricky rumba. Will she be rescued from another dance-off by viewer votes?
Half an hour until we get our first clues…
Who will the Halloween curse claim as its victim?
The creepy church bell is about to toll for one couple. Good evening and welcome to the fifth elimination of Strictly Come Dancing 2025. I’m Michael, your devilish dance partner for tonight’s results show. You are warmly invited to watch along with me as the Halloween spooktacular proves a fright night too far for one of our pro-celebrity pairings.
Following last night’s fancy-dressed live show, our 10 supernatural pro-celebrity pairings will be whittled down to a nasty nine. The judges’ scores have been combined with the public vote and tonight the bottom two will dance again for survival. So who’s in danger of pumpkin-spiced heartbreak?
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey was left at the foot of the leaderboard, with Ellie Goldstein just one point above. Balvinder Sopal was one point above her and George Clarke a further point ahead. But will voting viewers agree? With just three points separating the bottom four, we could be on for another tale of the unexpected dance-off.
It’s results showtime at 7.15pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 6.45pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and pumpkin-spiced sarcasm. So cut two holes in an old bedsheet, drape it over your head, say “woooh” and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As always, I’d love to hear from you too. You can tweet/“X” me @michaelhogan, contact me on Bluesky or Threads @michaelhogan100, email me michael.hogan.freelance@guardian.co.uk and the comments section below is back open for Halloween hubbub. I’ll shoulder-shimmy down there whenever I can to gauge your reaction, chuckle at your chat and relay your comments up top.
Someone’s being sent home in a pumpkin-shaped carriage, probably pulled by a black cat. Nearly time to staaaaaart spooky eliminating!
Thank you and a ghoulish goodnight - for now
I’m closing my coffin lid now but will be rising from the dead tomorrow. The results show airs at 7.15pm Sunday on BBC1. I’ll reanimate the blog at 6.45pm for build-up, so I hope you’ll rejoin me then. In the meantime, I’m @michaelhogan on Twitter aka “X”, so please do creep past, covered in blood, and say hello.
Thanks for watching along with me and your deliciously devilish company. Meet you here tomorrow to see who’s being sent to their glittery grave. In the meantime, as is traditional: keeeeeep dancing! Take care and a ghostly goodnight.
Finally, Somersetlass says of Alex Kingston: “Wow! Dance of the night for me. Alex positively sizzled and Jojo was his most outrageously camp self. A. May. Zing.”
TiggyStardust says: “Johannes looked like he was living his best Kylie life.”
girlpanic says: “I love Jojo’s outfit. Alex looks great too. I’m not sure her hips were quite there for the salsa but she gave it her all as ever. Another fun dance.”
Heartticker says: “Love Alex. She throws herself into every performance and acts her way through every dance as a different character. I do think JoJo out-danced her a little. I enjoyed it but not as much as the judges. Hated the music with a passion, though.”
whoarethesepeople says: “I loved Amber’s dance, it looked fluid and flowy. Not to Shirley’s taste but that is the fault of the choreography.”
gladarvor adds: “Oh, that was a Viennese waltz with an edge. Very, very nice.”
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IvanTiger says: “Excellent Argentine tango to superb music, brilliantly sung. Karen was brilliant at that dance. Impressed.”
paperview says: “Good Lord, Karen just smashed that Argentine Tango. She was absolutely brilliant. What a dancer! In bits of that, she was better than Carlos. Wow.”
SparklingDormouse says: “Generally a fan of a traditional Argentine tango but here in a big way for that from Karen and Carlos! Loved the styling and staccato of that. Really different and fab! Yes!”
fihema says: “That tango from Karen and Carlos just made me smile. So, so good. Great, even. Electric. Maybe even a better show than Peaky Blinders. She’s really changing the footballers’ rep on the dancefloor. Bravo.”
Vicc adds: “I wasn’t expecting anything particularly amazing from Karen’s AT as it is such a difficult dance. I was delighted to have my expectations smashed to smithereens. Fantastic!”
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acanthe says: “Why does no one really mention Balvinder’s beautiful hands and arm movements?”
Sebnose says: “Loving Balvinder’s outfit. I do love a sequin. Will the paying audience remember to vote for this, though, in the shadow of Lewis and Katya’s brilliance?”
Somersetlass says: “An expressive, controlled rumba from Balvinder. She’s gained in confidence and has improved so much. Julian seems a great partner.”
Aine183 says: “Is Harry trying to be voted out? Ridiculous costumes, weird setting and a lacklustre dance.”
gliese says: “I feel like Happy-Go-Lucky Harry is dancing in a muscular straitjacket and is a bit bound by that. But lovely guy.”
Heartticker adds: “Now I LOVE an American Smooth but I didn’t really like that. I’m quite disappointed. I wanted to like it because Harry and Karen are a great partnership but think he might be in trouble this week. Maybe it was lost to the Halloween theme, music and costumes.”
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Sparkling Dormouse says: “Excellent from La Voix! Loved that! The drama was brilliant. Didn’t expect that from her.”
Lidoswimmer says: “Well, that was rather good. La Voix (and Aljaz) are doing a good job of keeping her personality but actually bringing the dancing chops when it could all have just been a turn. Proper music helped too.”
LegTheory says: “Creep as a show tune? What would Thom say? I kinda like it.”
IvanTiger says: “Lewis is dancing better than Katya. Total joy to watch and a fab Couple’s Choice to show off his range with. Loved it.”
Miranda07 says: “Until now, I didn’t think anything would top the Gio/Faye Halloween Couple’s Choice. That dance from Katya/Lewis was A-MA-ZING!”
pubbore adds: “This is just musical theatre, so we are literally watching two professionals. They can’t even lean on the usual ringer excuse of ‘just because you’re a dancer it doesn’t mean you can do ballroom’.”
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ACSCD1 says: “Bloody lighting, very difficult to see if Ellie and Vito were in sync all the way through, especially as they moved back up the stairs. Still looked good from what I could make out.”
Irreverentnurse says: “Well done, Ellie, that was a seriously serious face.”
LazyMillennial says: “‘This week we needed to be a bit more serious,’ says Vito, while dressed as a rabbit.”
MarkRoche says: “Mmm, well, Alexis Warr was astounding in that routine. George Clarke seems to have gone off the boil the last couple of weeks, but I’d like to think he’s still a contender.”
ReclinedPotato says: “George must have had a busy week, judging by the lack of content and effort. Surprising after his bottom placement last week.”
Pancake01 adds: “Alexis has new pro syndrome. Wants to show she is a good dancer, rather than showing off her partner and focusing on the basics. Fundamentals again. Sorry. Drink!”
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On Vicky Pattison, paperview says “Vicki’s arms were great but her feet were all over the place.”
fihema says “I enjoyed that from Vicky, though either her feet were a touch shovel-like or the white shoes caused an optical illusion now and again. Possibly the shoes. Good, though. Very different mood from her previous dances, and easy to watch.”
Somersetlass adds “I love Total Eclipse but it’s very hard to dance to. Still, Vicky was appropriately smooth and beautifully yearning. I rather loved that.”
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Readers’ verdicts are in
Time for a vox pop of your petrifying thoughts. pretentiouspenguin says: “I miss when they used to dance to music from horror films or horror-themed tracks for Halloween week. Now it’s just like a normal week but in fancy dress.”
AndyPandy21 says “A big thank you to the whole Strictly team for a fabulous Halloween. You threw the kitchen cauldron at it and I for one was under the spell!”
ReclinedPotato adds “Shirley plugging her dancing school! Shameless self-promotion. You may however be interested that our beloved blogger has recently written a book.”
Funny you should say that, ReclinedPotato! My debut novel The Dogwalkers’ Detective Agency has been chosen as a Kindle Monthly Deal for November. This means the ebook is available for a wag-ulous 99p for a limited time only. You can order here. Canine cosy crime! Ideal autumnal reading! Commercial interlude ends!
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Golden Glitterballs: Ghoulish Ediion
Who’s taking home the skull-shaped prizes on fright night? Here are this week’s grateful gong-getters…
Best dance: Lewis Cope was spectacular but Karen Carney’s was arguably even more of an air punch moment.
Worst dance: For me, a tie between George Clarke and Nitro off of TV’s Gladiators.
Best music choice: That big band version of Radiohead’s Creep.
Worst music choice: Charli XCX would be turning on her grave if she was dead. And less of a Brat.
Best outfit: Karen and Carlos’ androgynous Peaky Blinders costumes were pipped at the last by Jojo’s drapey devil number.
Worst outfit: Nitro and Karen Hauer weren’t done many favours with that Bacofoil.
Best VT: Either Ellie’s family surprising her in training or Lewis visiting his huge family in Hartlepool.
Worst VT: Nitro and Karen, er, eating ice cream. Seemed to be phoned in.
Best judges’ comment: Anton to Tess: “Don’t you start. I’ve told you before, they’re my own teeth.”
Best Claudia quip: When Amber expressed nerves about closing the show: “I won’t mention it again. You dance whenever you want.”
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From glitterballs to girlbands
You can now stay on BBC1 for Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel, head to ITV1 for The 1% Club or flip to BBC2 for Girlband Night – the centrepiece of which is new docuseries Girlbands Forever at 9.20pm.
Also at 9.20pm is Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue on BBC1, Romesh Ranganathan’s Parents’ Evening on ITV1 or The Meghan Effect: How She Shook Up the Royal Family on Channel 5. There’s also a rerun of classic 80s drama Edge of Darkness at 9pm on BBC4. I’d recommend treating yourself or recording it if you’ve never had the pleasure.
Tonight’s film picks are Minority Report (8.30pm on ITV2), M3gan (9pm on Film4), Out Of Sight (9pm on Great TV), Tremors (10.50pm on ITV4), Trainspotting (11.20pm on Film4) and One Fine Morning (12.50am on BBC2). We call him Mother Superior on account of the length of his habit.
Halloween Spooktacular standings
Lewis Cope tops the supernatural scoreboard after the first perfect 40 of the series. Cheeky, peaky Karen Carney is in second spot. Harry Aikines-Aryeetey languishes way down at the bottom, with Ellie Goldstein just above.
As always, though, the public vote helps decide which two pairs will face tomorrow night’s dance-off. It could also be a nervy wait for Balvinder Sopal, George Clarke and Amber Davies.
Shirley gets tomorrow’s casting vote
You know, like the head judge normally does.
Credits roll
“Keeeeeep dancing,” howl Tess and Claud at the Hertfordshire moon. As the jack-o-lanterns are extinguished and the pumpkins repurposed as soups/curries/compost, please stay with us for analysis, reaction and a round-up of your comments.
Tonight’s spookacious routines get rewound on-screen. Which scarily good duo are you voting for? Which terrifyingly bad pair are you certainly not?
And the vote is… open!
Online-only, remember. Don’t come around here with your old-fashioned “phone vote”, you dance dinosaurs. Prop-heavy pandemonium ensues Elstree Studios.
Judges’ scores: 9, 9, 8, 9 for a total of 35 points. Joint third. Nikita takes blame for the choreography.
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Judges’ comments: Motsi says “storytelling on point, absolutely beautiful”. Shirley says “you executed it well but it was American style and too open”. Anton says “extraordinary piece of theatre, tremendous fleckerl and exquisite movement but shoulders were a problem in hold”. Craig concludes “don’t listen to old witchy-poo and grandma down there, I loved what you did with it”. Well. Scores could range from eight to 10.
Amber and Nikita’s Viennese waltz
Amber Davies got an early Halloween fright in last week’s dance-off but she’s going from red light to Red Riding Hood. Forest setting. Pro partner Nikita Kuzmin is the big bad wolf and whips off her crimson cape, then into hold for a spinning, floating waltz. Twirling romantically around the floor. Decent frame and footwork but with such a gifted dancer as Amber, the judges are bound to be pernickety. Lovely storytelling and loads of drama.
Song: I See Red by Everybody Loves An Outlaw. The Texan duo scored a viral hit when this was featured on the soundtrack to Netflix “erotic thriller” 365 Days. The famously bad film was compared to 50 Shades Of Grey but worse and nominated for six Golden Raspberry Awards.
Judges’ scores: 8, 9, 9, 9 for a total of 35 points. Joint third with one number to go. “As camp as Christmas,” says Jojo. “My horns ended up in some dangerous places,” says Alex.
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Judges’ comments: Shirley says “I wanna get out there, horny, horny, horny, competition-level rotation, loved it”. Anton says “side-by-side great, soften the arms, rest of it amazing”. Craig says “a bit like a midlife crisis, Jojo totally stole the show but I loved it”. Motsi concludes “sensual, feminine power, bringing it home, you got this”. Pick the bones out of that. Nines ahoy?
Alex and Jojo’s salsa
Actress Alex Kingston adores Halloween, entering into spirit with fancy dress and house decorations, but tonight she’s doing it on the dancefloor. She’s done serious numbers in recent weeks but is now bringing fun and sparkle for the ultimate party dance. Pro partner Johannes Radebe living his best life in a hooded catsuit. Devilish outfits, complete with horns and tails. Messin’ abaht with tables to start, then into tongue-in-cheek disco moves, great lifts and a fun, flirty feel. A proper show-stopping salsa.
Song: Horny by Mousse T feat. Hot ‘n’ Juicy. The disco-house banger from the Turkish-German producer was described by one reviewer as “The sound of Jumpin’ Jaks in Romford in the summer of 1998. Carefree youth, shots for a pound, dancing on the tables and fights outside McDonald’s. Wonderful.” No argument here.
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Judges’ scores: 9, 10, 9, 10 for a total of 28 points. By order of the Peaky fookin’ Blinders, a winner. Second spot as it stands.
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Judges’ comments: Motsi says “what a night, another fabulous number, challenging choreography, amazing”. Shirley says “smashed it, intensity and focus, sure-footed, loved the role reversal”. Anton says “she’s back and better than ever, extraordinarily good”. Craig concludes “wanted smoother passing of feet and looser leg but clean, confident, loved it”. Nines? Not another 10?
Karen and Carlos’ Aaargh-gentine Tango
Former Lioness Karen Carney started the series strongly but has dipped and seemed to lose confidence. Solihull-born Kaz – who also played for Birmingham City – will relish this chance to channel Peaky Blinders, one of her favourite TV shows. As a former footballer, she should have the strong legs and fast feet for it too. She and partner Carlos Gu are both in flat caps, getting into character as Brummie bootleggers. A semi-fight scene to start, then into a powerful, expressive and passionate routine. Close body contact. Cool gender-neutral choreography and she seems to be leading at times. Their first lifts. Stylised and speedy, lacking a little sizzle perhaps but so good. Blinding.
Song: Red Right Hand by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. The Southern gothic blues song’s title comes from John Milton’s Paradise Lost, where it’s used to describe the vengeful hand of God. The song isn’t just the theme tune to gangster hit Peaky Blinders but featured prominently in the Scream horror film franchise, so is suitably Halloween-ish.
Judges’ scores: 6, 7, 6, 7 for a total of 26 points. Bottom with three dances to go. Dance-off danger? Gladiator ready?
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Judges’ comments: Anton says “marvellous topline, lovely lyrical timing but a mistake in the middle of the room”. Craig says “it lost elegance and artistry in the arms, needed a softer approach but you bring heart and soul to the table”. Motsi says “held composure and bounced back strongly from the mistake”. Shirley concludes “balance routine, need spatial awareness and longer stride but seamless highlights”. Sevens for Harry too?
Harry and Karen’s astronomical American smooth
After intense dances for the past two weeks, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey – aka Nitro from Gladiators – is enjoying something more smiley. Ice cream parlour opening, then they’re floating in space, defying gravity with graceful elegance. Foxtrot style, switching in and out of hold, lots of side-by-side action. So many lifts that pro partner Karen Hauer barely touches floor in parts. Some gapping, heavy-footed and lumpy moments but reining in his usual power to achieve that smooth lightness. A jumping heel click to close.
Song: Mystical Magical by Benson Boone. Sampling Physical by Olivia Newton-John, the shimmeringly ethereal pop hit was known as “the moonbeam ice cream song” before it was properly titled.
Judges’ scores: 7, 7, 7, 7 for a total of 28 points. Second from bottom as it stands. Dance-off danger, I fear.
Judges’ comments: Shirley says “delivered the sensuality beautifully, I wanted clearer weight transference but great footwork details, good job”. Anton says “a tale of two halves, upper body exquisite but hesitant down below”. Craig says “a little unstable and lost flow but full of character and expression”. Motsi concludes “you’re one op those most expressive dancers we have, great connection and emotion in the body, keep going”. Sevens and a bonus eight, are we saying?
Balvinder and Julian’s irresistible rumba
Happy Bal-oween! EastEnders actor Balvinder Sopal dodged last week’s dance-off and was hugely relieved not to make it hat-trick. Can she get her confidence back, banish the nerves and enjoy dancing again? Slow start with dry ice hiding the footwork but a suitably intense connection with pro partner Julian Caillon. She’s found this the toughest dance yet to master but decent body action. Strong legs and feet. Fluidity, rhythmic and sensual. Lacking that continuous, oozing motion perhaps but plenty of passion. A romantic rumba with a dark twist.
Song: Stay by Shakespears Sister. This baroque pop ballad topped the UK charts for eight weeks in 1992 and was inspired by 50s sci-fi B-movie Cat-Women of the Moon. Abbey Clancy and Aljaž Škorjanec performed a rumba to it in 2013 series and went on to lift the glitterball trophy.
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Just me or has Tess Daly visibly relaxed since the announcement? We like the new loosey-goosey, more spontaneous Tess.
Judges’ scores: 10 (early for Craig!), 10, 10, 10 for a perfect 40 points. Top of the pops and highest score of the series so far, obviously. Scenes. Limbs.
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Judges’ comments: Craig applauds says “I liked that, spec-tac-ular”. Motsi says “a real moment, out of this world”. Shirley says “phenomenal work, well done you”. Anton concludes “best dance of the series by miles, as good as anything ever on Strictly, a-may-zing”. A nine and three 10s, do we think?
Lewis and Katya’s creepy Couple’s Choice
Actor Lewis Cope and pro partner Katya Jones haven’t scored lower than an 8 since way back in week two and are the highest scoring couple in the contest. This Couple’s Choice should showcase exactly how good Lewis is. An ambitious mash-up of styles, with elements of Charleston, jazz, tap and American smooth. Bob Fosse flourishes and floor work. Fun, quirky choreography by the ever-creative Katya. Leaps and comedy, a proper showdance. Partner work and plenty of precision in the side-by-side sections. Full of tricks and treats. Wow, a proper showstopper. Bravo.
Song: Creep by Radiohead. A jazzy, brassy big band version of the 1992 grunge classic which remains Thom Yorke and co’s most successful single. It’s been covered by the likes of Alanis Morissette, Prince and Olivia Rodrigo.
Judges’ scores: 8, 9, 9, 9 for a total of 35 points. By far her best and top of the standings at this stage. Some improvement from that “2” a fortnight ago.
Judges’ comments: Rousing reception in the ballroom. La Voix says she felt the magic of dancing there. Anton says “drama, atmosphere, thrilling, neat and tidy, Len would’ve loved it”. Craig says “needed more arch and oval shape but power, passion, authority, you owned it, your best”. Motsi says “so regal and proud, well controlled, I saw the music in the dance”. Shirley concludes “beautiful neckline and skirt, quality of movement, brilliant”. Eights incoming? Even a nine?
La Voix and Aljaž’s petrifying paso doble
Drag queen La Voix and partner Aljaž Škorjanec bounced back well last week, doubling the score from their cha-cha dis-ah-ster. Now she’s getting dark, strong and serious – even though she joked this week that she thought Paso Doble was a fishing village near Benidorm. She’s playing the Queen of Hearts in a red-and-black lace frock with corset and bustle. CGI suits of armour. Twists-turns, Spanish shapes and flamenco flourishes. Strong storytelling but footwork not quite there. Too stompy and lacking some curve but full of drama and magnificently moody.
Song: Beethoven’s 5th. Let’s hope she’s not fifth to be eliminated.
Judges’ scores: 6, 7, 8, 8 for a total of 29 points. Dance-off danger? Surely not.
Judges’ comments: Craig says “too turned in and clunky but loved the hip action and the pot-stirrer”. Motsi says “no mistakes for the first time in three weeks, pick up your centre for more driving force”. Shirley says “you don’t realise just how good you are, stop smiling so much and be more competitive, great connections, did very well”. Anton concludes “believe in yourself, give us more and go to the next level”. Sevens and the odd eight, do we reckon?
George and Alexis’ chilling cha cha cha
George Clarke and his pro partner Alexis Warr have been levelling out a bit in recent weeks, so he needs to focus, channel his energy, push harder and return to form. Can he master the leg action and Cuban rhythms of the ever tricky cha-cha? Cauldron-ography to start. He’s the mullet-wigged hero and Alexis is the evil queen in a purple fringed frock. Crisp and sharp but not quite getting his hips moving. Fast and flirty with spicy tricks. She’s dancing around him too much, while he’s just walking around. They end up behind the judges, which is awkward.
Song: Apple by Charli XCX. Her 2024 synth-pop hit sparked a viral TikTok dance craze, while lyrically the apple core symbolises generational trauma passed down through families.
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Judges’ scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 for a total of 27 points. Solid.
Judges’ comments: Huge rousing ovation in the studio. Motsi says “you’re one of the best performers and you execute it, needed more musicality but you’re a fighter, proud of you”. Shirley says “you did the best promenade position, didn’t miss a beat”. Anton says “second to none in the open parts but in hold, you got a bit ahead of Vito in the step patterns, so much to love”. Craig concludes “glad we’re seeing more technique, walks got out of time but I love the new serious Ellie”. Sixes and sevens, are we saying?
Ellie and Vito’s terrifying tango
Can “Team Cheeky” stop smiling and get serious? Ellie Goldstein and her partner Vito Coppola have performed upbeat party dances for the past three weeks. It’s a month since she was last in ballroom hold. Ellie always sparkles on the dancefloor but needs to show some improvement in footwork and technique. She’s playing a magician, pulling Vito the rabbit out of a giant top hat. A little flat-footed, lacking sharpness and staccato action but spooky, pacy with plenty of steps, high kicks and tricks. Nice breakdown. A floor spin before she puts a spell on Vito and has him on a string to finish. Now that’s magic.
Song: Abracadabra by Lady Gaga. Her dark and theatrical electro-pop hit from earlier this year incorporates elements of Spellbound by Siouxsie & The Banshees. A goth classic.
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Judges’ scores: 7, 8, 8, 8 for a total of 31 points. Her best ballroom score. Tearful Vicky is “over the moon”.
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Judges’ comments: Shirley says “huge improvement from your week two foxtrot”. Anton says “breathy, big and bold, marvellous heel turn, super performance”. Craig says “needed more reach and extension, smoother transitions and nicer shape in flight, but wonderful to see your confidence growing”. Motsi concludes “finish your moves, make it cleaner but atmospheric and characterful, you’re a contender for the final”. Sevens and the odd eight?
Vicky and Kai’s alluring American smooth
Vicky Pattison and her pro partner Kai Widdrington are the only couple in the contest to increase their score every week. Can the Geordie lass continue that steady improvement? She’s playing a ghost in a pearl-embellished white frock. Foxtrot steps and solid frame. Smooth with a sprinkle of spookiness. Spinning lifts. Posture not perfect and the odd thrown-away move but lovely flow. This is her first number with proper storytelling and she’s doing a great job of bringing the drama.
Song: Total Eclipse Of The Heart by Bonnie Tyler. the 1983 power-pop chart-topper was written and produced by Jim Steinman, who Tyler approached after liking his work with Meat Loaf. It was originally written for a Nosferatu musical, hence the rather vampiric lyrics. It once topped a poll of most popular songs to sing in the shower.
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Our Strictly stars™
Our couples emerge for staircase waves and they’ve all been raiding the creepy costume box. Devils! Ghosts! A big bad wolf! And a white rabbit, for some strange reason! It’s like a posse of toddlers going trick-or-treating.
Judges rise from the grave
The paddle-raising quartet arrive in full fancy dress. All in a steampunk vampiric vibe, including Auntie Joan aka Anton. The panel’s table is cobweb draped with skull and pumpkin ornaments. Never knowingly under-themed.
Frockwatch
Our Halloween hosts arrive, so let’s rate their fright night finery. Tess Daly is black velvet strapless affair with matching choker. Claudia Winkleman is in a polo necked number. Claud wins.
Cue clapalong titles
Five of the male celebs have bowed out already, via a combo of elimination and injury. Who’s next on the night bus home from Borehamwood?
Aaaaand we’re off!
Cue the compulsory horror-themed VT. A Blair Witch Project parody this year. With added zombies.
Insert your vampire fangs and nibble on some necks. Or at least a bowl of Nice ‘N’ Spicy Nik-Naks. We’re about to go over live to the Elstree Studios ballroom…
On your dance cards tonight
Another selection box tonight, with nine different dance styles. The only doubling up is from Vicky Pattison and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who both perform American smooths. We’ll also see an Argentine tango from Karen Carney and a Couple’s Choice form Lewis Cope.
Just five frightening minutes until the spangly curtain comes up…
Amanda Holden-hosted quiz hotchpotch The Celebrity Inner Circle just wrapping up on BBC1. As always seems to be the case, there’s a few Strictly alumna among the guests. This week, it’s Chizzy Akudolu (first out in 2017), JJ Chalmers (quarter-finalist in 2020) and Melvin Odoom (first out in 2016). A mere 10 minutes to wait now…
Bwa-ha-ha, it’s Halloween bingo
Tick them off when you spot them! Drink a bubbling, smoking potion for each! End up doing the Monster Mash and the Timewarp at a total stranger’s house party! Here’s tonight’s 10-point spotter’s checklist:
Judges wield pumpkin/ghost/bat-shaped scoring paddles
Someone begins routine by climbing out of a coffin, sparking traumatic Nancy Dell’Olio flashbacks
Halloween prop overload means way too much “messin’ abaht” and dances take ages to get going
Routine “enhanced” and “augmented” by shonky CGI creatures
Claudia and Tess dress in gothic black and blood red respectively
A judge or pro has a disembodied hand on their shoulder
Craig says a dance was “a horror show, darling” with “frightening footwork” or “stiff zombie hips”
Band leader Dave Arch is dressed as a baton-wielding werewolf/vampire
Someone’s face-paint transfers to their partner’s cheek or costume during the dance
Production team’s names are “spookified” with Halloween puns on the end credits
Midway mark next week
Tonight’s 10 couples are bidding to get through to week seven, which marks the halfway milestone of the contest. Fun fact: this is the furthest we’ve ever got into a series without Anton Du Beke giving a perfect 10. Could it happen tonight?
Twenty minutes until the glittery curtain comes up…
Your Halloween highlights
What’s your most memorable Halloween routine of Strictly yore? Numbers that stick in my mind include Ashley Roberts’ witchy Charleston, Faye Tozer’s skeletal Couple’s Choice, Kara Tointon’s Phantom paso and Frankie Bridge’s green-faced Wicked tango.
All by female celebs, I notice. Has a celebrity male ever delivered a Halloween classic? Let me know your own favourites. It’s 25 minutes until the ghostly glitterball starts spinning…
Another monstrous elimination looms
Balvinder Sopal is bookies’ strong favourites for the boot again this week, followed by La Voix and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. Amber Davies will also be nervy after last week’s dance-off shock.
Could Halloween characterisation help them all to safety? Half an hour until we get our first choreographic clues…
Whose hoofing will be a horror show in the Halloween Spooktacular?
Someone will be sent home in pumpkin-shaped carriage. Good evening and welcome to the sixth live weekend of Strictly Come Dancing 2025. I’m Michael, your cyber dance partner for tonight’s fright night special. You are cordially yet creepily invited to watch along with me as our 10 remaining couples cook up a cauldron of choreography.
Last time out, Icons Week saw the first major dance-off shock of the series, as Amber Davies plummeted from joint second on the scoreboard into the bottom two. But she managed to survive and instead, former Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink departed the dancefloor.
Tonight the surviving 10 pairs undergo terrifying transformations to perform deliciously dark dances which they hope will bewitch judges and voting viewers alike. It promises to be a feast of twinkle-toed trick or technical treat. But who will be kept alive and kicking in the competition? And for whom will the Halloween church bell toll?
It’s supernatural showtime at 6.35pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 6.05pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and pumpkin-spiced asides. So pour yourself a magic potion and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As always, I’d love to hear from you too. You can tweet me @michaelhogan, contact me on Bluesky or Threads @michaelhogan100, email me michael.hogan.freelance@guardian.co.uk and the comments section below is open for bwa-ha-ha banter. I’ll zombie-walk down there whenever I can to see what you’re all saying, quoting some of your Halloween wit and wisdom up top. So please don’t be shy about sharing your thoughts.
It’s week six and it’s going to be a scream. Nearly time to staaaart spooky dancing!
