During the latest episode of the BBC One dancing competition, the judges were quick to praise one contestant on his performance, hinting he could win the show
Strictly: Jamie Borthwick told he could win the glitterball
During Saturday night’s Movie Week on Strictly Come Dancing, the judges didn’t hold back with their predictions.
The episode saw EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick, alongside professional dancer Michelle Tsiakkas, deliver a quickstep to Sir Elton John’s I’m Still Standing from the film Rocketman.
Jamie, 30, famed for his role as Jay Brown in the BBC One soap, dazzled viewers as he channelled Elton John, complete with an eye-catching costume and glittering sunglasses.
Following their performance, the judges lavished praise on Jamie, with Anton Du Beke exclaiming: “You know, you really are a super super dancer. I think you could be one of the favourites to lift the trophy to be quite honest with you, I think you are an exceptional talent.”
Motsi Mabuse was in agreement, adding: “Yes, Anton, I think the Glitterball is quite close to you! ” The judges’ comments hinted at a strong chance of Jamie clinching the title, prompting host Tess Daly to remark: “Thank you judges. Two out of four mentioned the Glitterball… that’s big news!”, reports the Mirror.
Reacting to the judges’ glowing remarks, Jamie modestly responded: “It’s a bit too early to be mentioning the Glitterball… none the less, I appreciate everything they say!” In terms of scores, Jamie bagged a total of 30 points, with Craig Revel Horwood awarding eight, Motsi eight, Shirley Ballas seven, and Anton seven.
Viewers took to Twitter, now X, to heap praise on Jamie’s performance, with one fan exclaiming: “Jamie really threw himself into that! Well done! #Strictly”, while another enthused: “#Strictly Jamie was ACE in that”. A third supporter penned: “LOVED THAT JAMIE BORTHWICK #Strictly” and yet another added: “Well I loved that! Well done Jamie! #Strictly.”
The episode featured the professional dancers and their celebrity partners delivering movie-themed performances, complete with elaborate costumes. The show kicked off with a bang as the pros were transformed into Minions from Despicable Me, with Kai Widdrington taking on the role of Gru, and his fellow dancers sporting yellow bodysuits to become the Minions.
However, sadly, DIY SOS star Nick Knowles and his dance partner Luba Mushtuk were due to perform the Charleston to Rain On The Roof from Paddington 2 before Nick pulled out on Friday due to an injury. As per the Strictly rules, the pair will “receive a bye” through to next week’s show in the hope he has recovered.
It comes as last weekend Olympian Tom Dean and his dance partner Nadiya Bychkova became the first pair to leave the competition.
Strictly Come Dancing continues on BBC One.