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Balvinder Sopal Survives Strictly Dance-Off as Fans Decry Harsh Critique and Results Shake-Up

Sopal thanked voters, pledging to improve after Shirley Ballas’s foxtrot critique drew heavy viewer criticism.

Overview

  • Judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke saved Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon in the Oct. 12 dance-off, eliminating Ross King and Jowita Przystał.
  • Sopal’s Movie Week foxtrot to The Way You Look Tonight scored 26/40 after Ballas said her footwork was “by no means very good,” prompting boos in the studio.
  • Viewers rallied to defend Sopal as underscored and argued the critique contributed to her landing in the bottom two, praising the routine’s elegance.
  • In a post-show message, Sopal called the routine “magical,” thanked supporters, urged continued votes and vowed to work harder as the contest progresses.
  • Fans also objected to a Results Show change that leaves four couples waiting to learn their fate, calling the format more stressful for contestants.