Strictly Come Dancing live updates – Intense competition builds as Blackpool week approaches

This week marks a highly anticipated moment in the Strictly Come Dancing competition as Blackpool Week approaches. With only one week left, the pressure is on for celebrities to secure their places in the next phase of the competition. Tonight’s episode features eight diverse routines including a Rumba, Waltz, and two American Smooths.

Celebrity Performances and Highlights

La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec will showcase their Couple’s Choice routine to “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” a classic by Barbra Streisand.

• Vicky Pattison: The former Geordie Shore star achieved a near-perfect score of 39 for her tango to Taylor Swift’s “The Fate of Ophelia.”
• Amber Davies: Teamed with Nikita Kuzmin, she delivered an impressive performance scoring 38 points.
• Harry Aikines-Aryeetey: Eliminated last Sunday in a dance-off, he competed against La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec.
• Balvinder Sopal: Despite facing three dance-offs previously, she advanced after a successful Bhangra-inspired Couple’s Choice to “Sapphire” by Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh.

Strictly Come Dancing airs tonight at 6:30 PM on BBC One, and viewers can follow along with comprehensive live updates.

Memorable Moments from Tonight’s Routines

One standout performance features George and Alexis, who dance a heartfelt rumba to a cover of “Somewhere Only We Know.” The routine holds special significance as it is dedicated to George’s mother, who has faced serious health issues.

In an emotional display, Carlos was moved to tears by the judges’ feedback on his performance with partner Karen. The judges praised his technical skill but encouraged him to enhance his emotional expression and flow.

Judges’ Feedback

Judges provided critiques and praise for various celebrities:

• Vicky Pattison: Received mixed feedback, with Craig noting a lack of retraction and suggesting the routine felt somewhat flat.
• Amber Davies: Praised for her choreography and presence, earning scores of 9, 10, 9, and 10, totaling 38 points.
• Balvinder Sopal: Although judges noted her performance had lovely musicality, they felt it lacked the energy seen in her prior routines.

With intense competition leading up to Blackpool week, each routine will be critical for the remaining contestants’ chances of continuing in the competition.