Showbiz News
-
-
-
Loading
Loading
It was the end of the Strictly Come Dancing journey for former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw and his professional dance partner Nadiya Bychkova, who became the third couple to be eliminated from the competition on Sunday night.
The pair found themselves in the dreaded dance-off against EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal and her partner Julian Caillon, after both couples landed at the bottom of the leaderboard following Saturday’s live show.
Both pairs gave it their all for a second time in the results show, performing their routines again in a bid to impress the judging panel and stay in the competition. However, after some deliberation, it was the end of the road for Chris and Nadiya, as the judges delivered their verdicts, and it was a split decision that left the deciding vote in the hands of Craig Revel Horwood.
Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova are the latest stars to leave Strictly Come Dancing following a tense dance off against Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon – Credit: BBC/PA Wire
Head Judge Shirley Ballas praised both couples for their improvements, while Anton Du Beke and Motsi Mabuse admitted they found it a difficult choice. But when it came down to Craig’s final say, the outspoken judge chose to save Balvinder and Julian, sending Chris and Nadiya home.
Craig said: “Both couples performed with heart and energy, but one was slightly cleaner and more polished in their execution tonight, so I am saving Balvinder and Julian.” The decision was met with a mix of cheers and gasps from the studio audience, with many clearly moved by Chris’s emotional reaction to the result.
Speaking to host Tess Daly moments after his elimination, Chris paid tribute to his dance partner and reflected on his time in the competition. “I’ve loved it. I’ve had an amazing partner,” he said. “For me, coming onto this journey, I had no confidence. To be told I had world-class qualities on the dancefloor today, even though we have to go home, that’s amazing to hear. So thank you very much. It’s given me such confidence.”
Nadiya added: “Chris has been such a joy to teach. He’s worked hard every single day, and I’ve seen him grow not just as a dancer but as a person. He should be incredibly proud of himself.” The pair’s exit prompted warm applause from their fellow contestants, with several of the remaining celebrities visibly emotional as they hugged the departing couple.
Both couples performed their routines again during Sunday evening's pre-recorded results show before the judges cast their votes - Credit: BBC/PA Wire
With Chris and Nadiya gone, Strictly is now down to 11 couples competing for the coveted Glitterball Trophy. Balvinder and Julian will return next week alongside fan favourites including Layton Williams, Helen George, and Bobby Brazier, as the show gears up for its annual Halloween Week special, one of the most anticipated themed shows of the season.
As for Chris, it’s clear his Strictly experience has left a lasting mark. While his time on the dancefloor may have ended, he leaves the show with a newfound confidence, and a fanbase cheering him on from the sidelines.
No se pudo cargar el feed.
No se pudo cargar el feed.
No se pudo cargar el feed.
