Strictly Come Dancing: Blackpool results – as it happened

8.29pm GMT Back to the Elstree ballroom next time Thanks for watching along with me, Tower Ballroom buddies. Our sparkly six couples now progress to the 10th live show, back in the familiar surroundings of Elstree Studios. The dancefloor might be smaller and not sprung but as well as their usual routines, they’ll all be tackling the all-new Instant Dance challenge in a bid to make it through to Musicals Week. Could be choreographic chaos. It airs next Saturday at 6.35pm on BBC1. Meet you back here to see who’s benefited from the sea air and who’s suffering a Blackpool hangover. In the meantime, you know the drill: keeeeep dancing! Have a lovely week and see you back down south. Goodnight everyone. Updated at 8.52pm GMT 8.27pm GMT Finally, joanieloves says: “Will miss La Voix. They’ve been an absolute legend this year. Hope we get to see more of her on TV in the future.” LazyMillennial says: “I’ve not watched enough Drag Race, so La Voix was all new to me. I loved her throughout this show. Not the best dancer obviously but she clearly got into it more and more, and she was hilarious throughout. That’s one of the main reasons why I watch this show.” Pancake01 says: “It looks like she really couldn’t dance a step. Lovely to have met La Voix. Never heard of her before this, but think I would like to see her again.” ReclinedPotato adds: “Oh, the care that Aljaž took with La Voix made me unexpectly shed a tear. I’ll miss them both.” Updated at 8.30pm GMT 8.25pm GMT YodaknowsAll says: “I absolutely adore Lewis Capaldi. Beautiful song with gorgeous dancing.” vickiinspain adds: “I loved the dancing in the Lewis Capaldi song. So graceful and mesmerising. Dianne and Joe’s baby should be born with a great sense of rhythm.” Updated at 8.31pm GMT 8.25pm GMT ladyglencora says: “Loved Lewis’s Charleston. Could he be the one to break the ‘best dancers never win’ curse?” HollyBB adds: “I always thinks there’s one contestant who’s being pushed by the BBC as their next big thing. Stacey Dooley, for example. It feels as if George might be in that category. On The Rest is Entertainment, Richard Osman said he thought George should be one of the new presenters. Any thoughts? I’m not sure myself, although I understand he brings the all-important social media following.” Updated at 8.33pm GMT 8.23pm GMT On Frockwatch, JohnnyMidknight says: “Deffo a double win for Tess on the frock front.” Lynne says: “Since beauty is in the eye of the beholder, why not just comment on what they are wearing and leave it at that? We can all make up our own mind if we feel that one or other needs to ‘win’.” EmmyHarb adds: “#justicefortess.” Updated at 8.34pm GMT 8.21pm GMT On next week’s Instant Dance challenge, EmmyHarb says: “This sounds like a crazy idea. Remember the Lindy Hop chaos?” jennyloo says: “Looking forward to the Instant Dance. I think it will be an enjoyable hot mess!” Somersetlass says: “This could be brilliant or absolute carnage - or possibly both.” Lidoswimmer says: “You’d assume the instant dance thing might be easier for the female celebs as they can be kind of flung around by the pros. Then again, Katya could throw most blokes about.” MikeMoonlight adds: “I was kind of hoping that, as a tribute to the late Mani from The Stone Roses, they might get the contestants to perform a Madchester-themed ‘Bez-athon’, where they just just shuffle a few steps forward and back whilst shaking maracas in a state of wild-eyed ecstasy...” 8.19pm GMT ladyglencora says: “SPECTACULAR opening dance. Jay a tad outclassed perhaps but his jive remains my favourite Strictly dance. The lack of ‘tricks’ possibly the reason, just the perfect meeting of technique, style and effortless cool.” TheMathDiva says: “It’s strange but I don’t get excited by returning contestants. I’m just not invested in them anymore. I’d rather watch their efforts on VT.” IvanTiger adds: “Jay’s still got it big time! Layton still amazing. And Danny is magic. Those hips! Loved that mash-up routine. Brilliant. Oh, I’m wearing Claudia’s Attenbro leopard frock right now as a nightie.” Updated at 8.35pm GMT 8.18pm GMT A seaside straw poll Time for a swift vox pop of your Blackpool thoughts. Climbingrose says: “I think the email sent into Michael suggesting no eliminations in Blackpool week is a great idea. The dancers looked so much more relaxed and could enjoy it more.” Sebnose says: “More padding tonight than an Alexis Colby shoulder.” diamondcat adds: “Any more padding and this show will morph into a Chesterfield.” Updated at 8.35pm GMT 8.15pm GMT Homecoming heroes were a hoofing hit What a treat it was to see the quartet of Strictly alumni back on the dancefloor. Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams rolled back the years - admittedly, only two years in tumble-turning Layton’s case - by joining the professionals for a big production number and with each reliving one of their most memorable routines. A lovely way to connect Strictly past and present. How about making it a regular fixture of Blackpool weekend? And who would you like to see return to the dancefloor? My personal wishlist would include Jill Halfpenny, Louis Smith, Alesha Dixon, Harry Judd, AJ Odudu, Natalie Gumede, Faye Tozer and Frankie Bridge. Plus some of the more mature finalists like Bill Bailey and Debbie McGee. Let us know yours in the comments section. Updated at 8.51pm GMT 8.14pm GMT Hastily rejigged show was more padded than La Voix's shoulders It was the producers’ worst nightmare. This luckless series has already suffered three injury dropouts: Dani Dyer and Kristian Nairn before the contest even began, followed by Stefan Dennis in week four. Another withdrawal would mean either an elimination-free weekend or a two-way final. Tough choice but BBC bosses wisely went with the former option. Thanks to the combination of Blackpool and La Voix, they just about got away with it. It meant a giddy celebratory mood on Saturday, even if the scoring did feel lower in stakes. With no dance-off drama and at least 10 extra minutes of airtime to suddenly fill, Sunday’s results show was frantically filled out with extended interviews, recaps, montages and copious chit-chat. It sagged badly at times but if any primetime production embraces ye olde adage of “the show must go on”, it’s Strictly. What’s a crocked foot between friends when there’s this much goodwill beneath the glitterball? Updated at 8.37pm GMT 8.12pm GMT Strictly and Traitors champions both on TV tonight TV viewers can now flip to BBC Two for Chris McCausland: Seeing into the Future, the reigning glitterball champion’s exploration of how tech is changing disabled people’s lives. At 9pm, new drama Prisoner 951 starts on BBC1. At 10.05pm, Alan Carr’s sitcom Changing Ends returns to ITV1. Tonight’s film picks are Warrior (9pm on Legend), Cyrano (9pm on BBC3), Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation (9pm on E4), Night Of The Demon (9.45pm on Talking Pictures) and Planes, Trains & Automobiles (10pm on BBC Two). Those aren’t pillows! 8.11pm GMT Four of the field can count themselves lucky Balvinder Sopal, who has already been consigned to four dance-offs and finished bottom of the Saturday scoreboard, looked the most relieved to get a reprieve this week. After her rollercoaster contest – an up-and-down ride to rival the Pleasure Beach Big Dipper - who could blame her? Several of her rivals might have been mopping their brows too. Alex Kingston finished second from bottom after a Couple’s Choice which never quite caught fire. Amber Davies was third from bottom, has failed to connect with viewers and has already survived one dance-off. Even George Clarke, whose show-closing salsa was grossly overmarked, might have faced a nervy wait. Karen Carney and Lewis Cope were the only two celebrities who looked clear of danger. This pair now look like nailed-on finalists, likely to be joined by either George or Alex. Your own predictions please? Updated at 8.52pm GMT 8.10pm GMT Aljaž also bows out but he had a ball Smiley Slovenian professional Aljaž Škorjanec is always a cheerful soul but he particularly enjoyed his Strictly stint this year. Being partnered with La Voix not only opened up a whole new avenue of dance for the popular pro. He was also able to step back and let the drag diva shine in interviews, taking particular pleasure in her backchat to the judges. Since returning to the Strictly fold last year after paternity leave, former glitterball winner Aljaž reached his third final with Tasha Ghouri. Now he made Strictly history by partnering the first ever drag queen to compete in the main series. As we saw in that moving last interview, she brought joy to his life and broadened his horizons. Since Giovanni Pernice left under a cloud after The Great Unpleasantness™, Aljaž and Vito Coppola have emerged as the leading male pros. A less ostentatiously alpha but far bigger-hearted pair to help lead Strictly into its new era. Aljaž will surely land a promising partner and be a contender again next year. Friends for life indeed. Updated at 8.38pm GMT 8.07pm GMT At least La Voix had a fitting farewell The drag queen also known as Christopher Dennis has lit up this year’s contest - if not always with her dancing, then certainly with her whip-smart wit and all-round fabulousness. Although it was a huge shame that La Voix was forced to withdraw with a foot injury, she departed in inimitable fashion - flying down from the ceiling on a pink heart into the arms of her pro partner Aljaž Škorjanec. The RuPaul’s Drag Race UK runner-up and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist was never likely to get that far here. But with her musical theatre and cabaret background, she always entertained. She formed a strong bond with Aljaž, as seen in that genuinely emotional exit interview. Footwork technique aside, La Voix brought high performance value and regal charisma to every routine. Her stated aim was always to reach Blackpool, where her drag career all began. As it turned out, she didn’t get to dance in the fabled Tower Ballroom but she got there and was fondly waved off amid a hail of glitter, group hugs and warm wishes. La Voix had been carrying a foot injury since her foxtrot a fortnight ago and it eventually became too painful to dance on. You knew it was serious when she gave up her treasured Blackpool dream and, as per competition rules, got a bye through to next weekend. When it became clear that a week’s rest wouldn’t fix it, her Strictly adventure was over. Never knowingly under-camp, her hoofing highlights were her Mary Poppins waltz, her Queen of Hearts paso doble and her showbizzy Couple’s Choice to Barbra Streisand (we need it!). Yet there were just as many off the dancefloor, not least her auditioning for various Strictly jobs, her affectionate mocking of Tess’ outfits and Claudia’s fringe, and her weekly wind-ups of judge Craig Revel Horwood, who could never resist cracking a rare smile. La Voix became La Danse and broke new ballroom ground. She sashays away with many new fans. Updated at 8.39pm GMT 8.03pm GMT As the credits roll and La Voix’s castmates descend for airkisses and cuddles, please stay with us for analysis, reaction and a round-up of your comments. 8.02pm GMT No last dance, just a flight of love There’s no eliminated couple to take a final twirl around the floor for once. Instead La Voix descends from the ceiling on a fluffy pink love heart and Aljaž twirls her around to the strains of Love Is In The Air by John Paul Young. Memories of Strictly Ballroom. The Pan-Pacifics! Updated at 8.39pm GMT 8.00pm GMT La Voix says her lovely partner has helped her leave the competition “braver, happier and more confident”. But at least her unexpected departure gives someone else a chance to win. Ahem. 7.59pm GMT Aljaž says that he’s made two friends for life: La Voix and Chris. Both him in stitches every day and she made his life a joy. She looks genuinely moved by that. 7.58pm GMT La Voix and her pro partner Aljaž Škorjanec chat to Tess and Claudia. She says her highlight is “being made to feel welcome, having come into the show as a minority – as a redhead”. Updated at 8.41pm GMT 7.56pm GMT La Voix says ta-ra Time for a send-off chat with drag queen La Voix, who’s been forced to withdraw from the competition with injury. But first, a rewind of her highlights. WE NEED IT. 7.54pm GMT Life is a rollercoaster At least, it is for Shirl, Craig and Anton in a VT. Anyone would think they had 45 minutes to fill. 7.53pm GMT “It could be absolute chaos and we’re all here for it,” says Shirley. Anton says every routine felt like Instant Dance in his hoofing days. 7.52pm GMT Motsi Mabuse has seen this challenge in the German edition of the show. Some people have “blackouts” apparently. Sounds… fun? 7.52pm GMT Instant Dance selection being made They’ve got their envelopes but they can’t open them. Their fate is sealed, like a light non-toxic adhesive. This segment was brought to you in association with Rymans. 7.50pm GMT Motsi Mabuse explains why she “didn’t have a paddle high enough” for Karen Carney’s paso. Claudia makes Craig justify not whipping out his 10. Inhale, everyone. 7.49pm GMT Anton du Beke extols George Clarke showing more of himself in his salsa. Hmm. Maybe not 39 points worth, though. 7.48pm GMT Shirley Ballas praises Lewis Cope’s dynamic acceleration towards the end of his Charleston. Craig Revel Horwood notes Balvinder Sopal’s improvement in her Argentine tango. 7.46pm GMT Motsi Mabuse has come dressed for her judo lesson in the Blackpool sports hall. 7.46pm GMT Dance debrief The judgely panel pop their esteemed posteriors on Claudia’s teal Blackpool banquette for a breakdown of last night’s dances. 7.45pm GMT Strings. Heartfelt lyrics. Foxtrot-meets-waltz choreography. Lovely. Updated at 8.43pm GMT 7.43pm GMT Choreographic accompaniment comes from Lauren Oakley, Neil Jones, Vito Coppola and Dianne Buswell. Updated at 8.44pm GMT 7.42pm GMT Towering performance from Lewis Capaldi Musical interlude now from Lewis Capaldi, crooning his recent single Something In The Heavens. A rawly emotional track, sung over stripped-back, melancholic piano. Updated at 8.42pm GMT 7.40pm GMT Jojo says it will be “lush”. Everything is now officially OK. 7.40pm GMT Lewis Cope is worried by Katya’s potential outfit choices. She doesn’t look impressed. Then again, she’s dressed as a pink 1930s gangster. 7.39pm GMT “It will go awfully but it’ll be a laugh,” says George Clarke. Which is probably the right attitude. Karen Carney has “concerns” about Carlos. Understandable. 7.38pm GMT Instant Dance challenge trailed It sounds… stressful. It involves sealed envelopes. I imagine they’re gold and sparkly. 7.37pm GMT Nothing can hinder Balvinder That’s what Craig said. Balvinder Sopal not only gets served a cream tea but her pro partner Julian Caillon reveals that they’re jiving next week to Right Back Where We Started From. 7.36pm GMT Wolfie has serious doggy style Alex Kingston pays fond tribute to her dog Wolfie dressing up for each of his mistress’s dances. Partner Johannes Radebe revelas they’re doing a cha cha cha to Anita Ward’s Ring My Bell next week. Get sewing, Wolfie. 7.34pm GMT Lewis has 10 x 10 Leaderboard-topping Lewis Cope and his partner Katya Jones notched their 10th maximum last night. 7.33pm GMT George breaks a record YouTuber George Clarke (not that one) and his pro partner Alexis Warr scored the first 10s for a salsa in Blackpool history. Not fully deserved but let’s not quibble. They’re dancing a quickstep to Frank Sinatra next week. Updated at 8.44pm GMT 7.32pm GMT Karen dances a Couple's Choice next week Paso doble queen Karen Carney and her partner Carlos Gu will be going no-rules next week. Can’t wait. 7.32pm GMT Amber posed for 10 selfies Having played the nan card last night - not needed, as it turned out, so poor old Jeanette shivered on that open-top bus for nothing - Amber Davies says she was stopped in the street multiple times this weekend. Well, it was the only 10 she got. Arf. 7.30pm GMT Nikita is it cold, in your little corner of the world? In the temporary Clauditorium with the happy couples who are returning to the Elstree ballroom next week, Nikita Kuzmin admits he was deeply confused by the no dance-off news. 7.29pm GMT No red spotlight of doom They carefully wrapped up the usual red lightbulb in a hankie and shipped it 230 miles north but it wasn’t needed. Everyone is safe. 7.29pm GMT The paddle-raising panel take their ringside seats. The pressure’s off them in terms of dance-off decisions tonight. God help us if Anton celebrates by making a sequence of noises instead of choreographic critiques again. 7.27pm GMT Last night’s live show rewound A reminder of Saturday night’s seaside action on-screen now. Lewis Cope in the pink! Alex Kingston’s name in lights! George Clarke going all boyband! Karen Carney as a sultry bullfighter! Anton saying “wow” a lot! 7.26pm GMT Frockwatch Here’s our hostly duo, so let’s do our dressing down. Tess Daly is black halterneck dress with sparkly collar. Claudia Winkleman is in a leopardprint shift dress. Claud wins, making it one-all this weekend. Seems like a fair result. 7.25pm GMT A big shoulder-shimmying finish from them all. Confetti falls. Bravo! Brilliant. Updated at 8.45pm GMT 7.24pm GMT Strictly was a long time ago for some of the comeback quartet. A full decade for Jay. Wonder if it was like riding a bike or they had to learn those steps all over again? Updated at 8.48pm GMT 7.24pm GMT Now 2016 runner-up Danny Mac reprises his bare-chested 40-point samba, now with Nancy Xu instead of the much-missed Oti Mabuse #justicefornancy. Updated at 8.46pm GMT 7.23pm GMT Back-flipping 2023 runner-up Layton Williams is reunited with Nikita Kuzmin to relive their quickstep to Puttin’ On The Ritz. They performed it in week two but still notched a clean sweep of nines. Well, there is some gapping… Updated at 8.47pm GMT 7.22pm GMT Now 2015 champion Jay McGuiness reprises his ice-cool Pulp Fiction jive - this time dancing with Jowita Przystal, rather than the departed Aliona Vilani. Slightly hard to believe this only scored 37 points, isn’t it? Inflation seems to have hit Strictly scoring over the years. Updated at 8.49pm GMT 7.21pm GMT Twinkle-toed trip down Strictly memory lane Guess who’s back? We open with four former Strictly celebrities returning to the dancefloor for a razzle-dazzle group number alongside the pros, choreographed by Jason Gilkison. All four get their own moment in the spotlight, each revisiting one of their best-known routines. First up, tail feather-shaking 2018 runner-up Ashley Roberts busts out her 40-point fish-and-chip shop jive with Pasha Kovalev, except now with both Neil Jones and Vito Coppola. Updated at 8.50pm GMT 7.19pm GMT Cue clap-along credits None of these happy couples are about to board the sequin-spangled tram home. Welcome relief or anti-climactic, are we saying? 7.18pm GMT Aaaaand we’re off! Two minutes later than planned – anyone would think they were playing for time – proceedings kick off with a behind-the-Blackpool-scenes VT from last night. Steps looking spookily ageless! Backing dancers! Pyrotechnics! Props galore! Updated at 7.23pm GMT 7.16pm GMT Blow up your lilo, pop up your parasol and take your sofa seats. We’re about to be beamed back to Blackpool Tower Ballroom… 7.14pm GMT An email just in Anil Patel from London – hi, Anil! – writes: I think Blackpool should be an elimination-free week every year, to allow for the fact that the dances are always a showdance in a group and the scores are higher than they should be. 7.10pm GMT Wildlife series Kingdom just coming to a close on BBC One. Which of these animals would be the best dancers, do we think? The leopards, probably. The hyenas’ posture and topline is a dis-ah-ster, darling. A mere five minutes until the glittery clapperboard comes down… 7.05pm GMT Hoofing friends reunited Tonight’s group dance sees four former Strictly finalists – namely Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams – return to the ballroom for one night only. Should be a Blackpool bobby dazzler. Commence some light stretching exercises and take on-board some fluids. It’s 10 minutes until showtime… 7.00pm GMT It’s raining 10s, hallelujah! Those generous judges awarded another 10 maximums last night - four to Lewis, three apiece to Karen and George - taking the total so far this series to 27 perfect 10s. With four live shows still to go, those top-scoring paddles should get plenty more outings. Just 15 minutes until that ba-ba-da theme tune… 6.56pm GMT Lewis Capaldi can’t keep away Tonight’s musical guest is Lewis Capaldi. It’s the Glaswegian troubadour’s third Strictly appearance, after previously performing in the 2019 and 2022 series. Wonder if it’s a rolling triennial booking? See you again in 2028, Lewis? It’s 20 minutes until the clock strikes Strictly… 6.50pm GMT Six-strong scoreboard was tightly bunched What other scores will be carried forward to next week? Well, Lewis Cope topped the standings for the fourth time this series after notching the night’s only perfect 40 for his triumphant show-opening Charleston. Karen Carney and a grossly over-marked George Clarke were just one point behind on 39, followed by Amber Davies on 36 points. Alex Kingston was second from bottom on 35 points, with Balvinder below her. With just seven points separating top from bottom - and three points between the bottom trio - it’s still all to dance for next Saturday. It’s 25 minutes until the sparkly curtain comes up… 6.45pm GMT No fifth dance-off for Balvinder (yet) Coming into this weekend, bookies’ odds-on favourite for elimination was Balvinder Sopal once again. She duly finished bottom of the scoreboard for her 33-point Argentine tango, which was a little undermarked to my mind. Not surprisingly, Bal looked the most relieved by the announcement that there would be no record-equalling fifth dance-off for her. At least not this week. Half an hour until we’re back in the Tower Ballroom… 6.36pm GMT Get ready for a results show like no other Somebody’s seaside weekender was due to go south - but the Strictly gods had other plans. Good evening and welcome to a uniquely strange edition of Strictly Come Dancing 2025. I’m Michael, your glittery guide to tonight’s non-results results show. You are warmly invited to watch along with me as nobody bows out in Blackpool’s Tower Ballroom and the producers try to eke 45 minutes of primetime TV out of not much. It was announced in last night’s live show that injury absentee La Voix, who had a pass through to next week, is withdrawing from the competition on medical advice. With her injury unlikely to heal in time, it dealt a shock blow to the show and a rare format change. This means there will be no elimination or dance-off this weekend – the first all-contestant bye to occur this far into the series in Strictly history. This news seemed to come as a complete surprise to our six competing couples and was greeted by endearingly jubilant scenes of relief. Knowing they will all be returning to Elstree Studios next Saturday, the hoofing half-dozen were free to enjoy the big occasion on that fabled bouncy dancefloor. However, their routines were by no means irrelevant in terms of the contest. The judges’ scores and the public vote will both be carried over to next Saturday, combined with week 10’s scores and those from the all-new Instant Dance challenge, and someone will bow out next Sunday. Tonight, though, nobody’s hoofing holiday will be cruelly cut short. It’s showtime at 7.15pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 6.45pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and admiration of the amount of frantic padding. So kiss me quick, squeeze me slow 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 open for Tower Ballroom badinage. I’ll kick and flick down there from time to time to see what you’re all saying and quote your thoughts up top. The dance deck chairs aren’t about to be rearranged - but the show format definitely is. Nearly time to staaaaaart non-eliminating beside the seaside! 9.01pm GMT Thank you and a rollercoaster-riding goodnight That completes Saturday’s Blackpool livebloggery but we’ll be back by the seaside for the results show, which airs at 7.15pm Sunday on BBC1. There’s music from Lewis Capaldi, while former Strictly finalists Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams return to the dancefloor. No atual results or dance-off, though, so we can expect a long interview with the departing La Voix and more padding than her stage bra. I’ll saddle up the liveblog donkeys at 6.45pm for build-up, so please rejoin me then. In the meantime, I’m @michaelhogan on Twitter/X and @michaelhogan100 pretty much everywhere else, so please feel free to give me a follow or say hi. As always, thanks for watching along with me, glitterball gang. Hope to see you back on the virtual Pleasure Beach tomorrow. Until then, it’s the traditional Tower Ballroom mantra: keeeeeep dancing! Goodnight. 8.41pm GMT One tiny complaint from me about tonight’s show. I guess because of the lack of a balcony for the Clauditorium and the more echoey space, the prop-moving between routines was often quite loud on the audio. Several post-dance interviews were interrupted by bangs, grunts and screeches. I’ll write to Points Of View (is that still a thing?). 8.39pm GMT Finally, davewatcher says: “Can’t wait to see Jay’s Pulp Fiction jive again! I met him on a train a couple of years ago and had a lovely chat with him about Strictly. Very humble guy, especially as this was in second class too!” 8.38pm GMT On George Clarke’s show-closing salsa, VelvetinaB says: “That was great from George. He really is very good at partnering. It seems to come very naturally to him. Very rhythmic and fitted in well with the professional dancers.” LekisP says: “Ok, I know it’s petty but why are their costumes not matching? A bit too much of Alexis dancing round George, to be honest, but a good dance.” jagadox says: “George actually looks like he was enjoying that and getting totally into the spirit. Best he’s done so far because of that. I reckon.” TheMathDiva says: “A lot of very loud leaping around from George. He just hasn’t had a journey, has he?” YodaknowsAll says: “That salsa was George’s best dance by a country mile. Great hips and lifts and Alexis let him shine. Good stuff.” Audreyshandbag adds: “Oh no! It’s all about her again. He’s good but doesn’t get a proper chance to show us.” Updated at 8.43pm GMT 8.36pm GMT On Alex Kingston and Jojo’s Couple’s Choice, Poppieshen says: “I’m loving the colour of Alex dress but that routine felt a little underwhelming to me. Johannes was magnificent but Alex seemed a bit disjointed and didn’t flow.” MikeMoonlight says: “Alex: ‘I don’t like the VT’s, they put me off.’ I think she’s just won the vote of the entire nation.” diamondcat says: “Alex is so fearless. She’s not the greatest dancer but my goodness, when she’s on stage, it’s a party!” YodaknowsAll says: “Alex started off very tentatively in that CC. She did pick it up by the end, but I felt that it needed a little more oomph.” Gardener_Maidhc says: “What combo of ageless genes and voodoo is Alex employing? Truly looks the same as ever. joanieloves says: “More posing than dancing? Glad there’s no dance-off because as much as I love Alex, that wasn’t my favourite dance of hers.” ReclinedPotato adds: “Alex’s VT made me quite emotional. Who doesn’t want a navy blue Aga in their converted barn?” Updated at 8.53pm GMT 8.33pm GMT On Karen Carney’s paso doble, Ginsinger says: “Wow! A whole fantasy epic story in 90 seconds!” fihema says: “I’m going to have to rewatch that paso doble from Karen and Carlos again and again. It was hypnotising. I used to dislike Carlos. When he started he was too keen to show his own skills and leave the celeb to keep up, but what a change! Amazing from both.” YodaknowsAll says: “What a dance from Karen. She could have had more flamenco in her hands and arms, and her back could have had more arch (probably due to her medical issues). The intensity however, was off the scale.” TheMathDiva adds: “Karen’s paso was very dramatic with a positively demonic beginning. I didn’t detect a lot of dance in it. though. Mostly drama and posing. I thought.” Updated at 8.52pm GMT 8.31pm GMT On Amber Davies’ quickstep, MartGray says: “I did enjoy Amber de Milo, that was very West End. And Nikita suits the Buttons look.” VelvetinaB says: “Not sure what the sea theme is doing there, but it’s so nice to be able to see what they are doing! I’m not her hugest fan but Amber did well there. Light and frothy and fun.” emilyscatnaps adds: “Jeez, a Nanna klaxon wasted! Nobody’s going! Nanna had to freeze on the open-topped bus in the Blackpool Arctic for nothing!” Updated at 8.51pm GMT 8.30pm GMT Phoebe says: “I loved that from Balvinder and Julian. Those lifts were amazing and Balvinder looked as if she was enjoying herself, which is not always the case. How could she not with the adorable Julian?” G1adys says: “‘A little too posed, placed and walky around for me’? Dear Michael, that sounds like a real AT to me. Not the excessive leg flicking that we usually get to see - actually had proper AT steps.” TallulahBankhead says: “Balvinder looks good in the blue dress and she performed pretty well in such a difficult dance but it should have been a bit cleaner. It tended to be a bit lumpy and even fearful in one or two moments (eg when he threw her up in the air - which was a brave move).” fihema says: “This choreography for Bal feels odd. She’s dancing well, but that lull near the beginning felt like waiting for a bus in the rain. It felt like a musical theatre number to me. She acted it well but did the music fit the dance style?” TiggyStardust adds: “I wish we hadn’t had a close up on Balvinder counting so obviously. That was a patchwork tango for me - some really good moments and choreo, but it got a bit lumpen sadly.” Updated at 8.52pm GMT 8.27pm GMT On Lewis Cope’s Charleston, Belette says: “Oh I liked that! Becoming a real fan of Katya. Her choreography is always spot-on and she is such a strong dancer. And she’s got someone who can do that justice. Well done, Lewis. Great opener.” Somersetlass says: “Fast, frenetic and such fun. What an opener from Lewis and Katya! The synchronisation was spot-on and they looked as if they were having the time of their lives.” Heartticker says: “Lewis is just amazing. I thought it would be hard to beat Danny Mac’s Charleston in Blackpool but I think that just topped it.” MartGray says: “Wow, Lewis and Katya and those rather strong extra dancers, that has to be one of the best Blackpool routines ever. The kicks, the flips, the liquid legs… tens!” yorkshirecoast adds: “Next year just cut out the middle man and recruit the entire cast from Emmerdale.” Updated at 8.45pm GMT 8.25pm GMT Haigin88 says: “Brilliant news on no dance-off! The faithful, quality dancers were losing out, de facto, due to injuries harming lesser dancers. Excellent decision-making by the BBC. Lovely to see the dancers going apeshit with joy there.” KarimaKat says: “Lovely Bal crying with relief. Sad she feels it’s going to be her at the bottom every time. She’s really quite good. Go girl!” MikeMoonlight adds: “No one is leaving Strictly this week. You are all safe...” Somewhere, Vicky Pattison is currently throwing a bottle of Newcastle brown ale at the TV. The bad news is that tomorrow’s results show is now requiring so much filler that Anton has offered to perform his 2017 album From The Top in it’s entirety.” Updated at 8.48pm GMT 8.23pm GMT Readers’ verdicts are in Time for a grab bag of your Blackpool feedback. MartGray says: “Poor La Voix but from an Instagram message the other day. it sounded as if he risked breaking something and being out of action for eight weeks if it got worse.” ReclinedPotato adds: “Gutted about La Voix. She’s been so entertaining. I can only wish her well. I hope she finds her way Up North with her show one day. I’ll be there!” Updated at 8.47pm GMT 8.21pm GMT How are we feeling about no dance-off? It sort of drained proceedings of jeopardy but did create a celebratory, end-of-term atmosphere. 8.15pm GMT It's the Golden Glitterballs: Pleasure Beach Edition A trip to the seaside wouldn’t be complete without some entirely theoretical awards. Here are this week’s liveblog gong-getters… Best dance: Lewis Cope’s Charleston and Karen Carney’s paso doble were both numbers for the ages. Worst dance: For me, Alex Kingston was disappointing. I know, I know. Best music choice: O Fortuna was impressive from Dave Arch andhis Latin-singing combo. The big band Arctic Monkeys was also fun. Worst music choice: Supertramp didn’t suit the Argentine tango and the Geri/Shirley mash-up didn’t work. Best outfit: Amber’s gold frock and Alex’s green one. Worst outfit: George and Alexis seemed to be dressed for different routines. Best VT: Alex Kingston, both for emotion and nice kitchen. Also Carlos asking the fortune teller “Will my costume look fabulous?”. Worst VT: Amber playing the nan card. Also, one presumes that George’s self-filmed one was an attempt to be all modern and content creator-y but it just looked like the camera crew had phoned in sick. Best judges’ comment: Craig telling Amber she “flew around the floor faster than a seagull swooping for a chip”. By contrast, Anton kept making noises and saying wow. Best Claudia quip: Not knowing what a cummerbund is and asking Tess “Shall we get Blackpool tattoos? Good girl.” Updated at 8.20pm GMT 8.10pm GMT In other self-indulgent plugging news, my debut novel The Dogwalkers’ Detective Agency is available on ebook for a wag-ulous reduced price of 99p for one more week only. It’s also out in paperback and audiobook, if you’re so inclined. Right, I’ll shut up about that now and get back to the dancing. Updated at 6.42pm GMT 8.10pm GMT Serpents (and my silly face) on telly tonight TV viewers can now stay on BBC1 for Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel, flip to BBC Two for Kim Wilde At The BBC or head to ITV1 for The 1% Club. At 9.05pm, there’s Wild Cherry on BBC One or I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! on ITV1. At 10.05pm, star-studded historical drama The Serpent Queen arrives on Channel 4 or there’s The Most Embarrassing TV Moments on Channel 5 - which might just feature a certain Strictly liveblogger as a talking head. I can only apologise in advance. If you’re in a filmic frame of mind, tonight’s top picks are Nobody (9pm on Film4), The Bourne Ultimatum (9pm on 5Star), Nights of Cabiria (9.05pm on Talking Pictures) or The Holiday (9.05pm on BBC3). You’re supposed to be the leading lady in your own life, for God’s sake! 8.09pm GMT Blackpool leaderboard in full Lewis Cope tops the seaside standings, with George Clarke and Karen Carney tied in second spot. Balvinder Sopal is way down at the bottom, with Alex Kingston just above and Amber Davies in mid-table. No dance-off but it will all get carried over to next week, as will the public vote. Updated at 8.55pm GMT 8.07pm GMT Credits roll Tess and Claud tell us to “Keeeeeep dancing!” with one eye already on their traditional post-show Blackpool night out. Now even larger due to no dance-off, one hopes. As everyone folds up their windbreaks and shakes out their sandy towels, please stay with us for analysis, reaction and a round-up of your comments. 8.07pm GMT The casting vote goes to… Nobody! There’s no dance-off! Have we mentioned that? 8.04pm GMT Tonight’s super six routines get rewound on-screen. Which seaside superstars will get your vote? Which dancing donkeys definitely won’t? 8.04pm GMT And the vote is… open! Online-only, of course. Phonelines are sooooo last century. The usual mayhem kicks off with a fancy-dressed Blackpool twist. 8.03pm GMT Judges’ scores: 9, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 39 points. Overmarked but joint second. Updated at 8.57pm GMT 8.01pm GMT Judges’ comments: Motsi says “wow, wow, this is how you shut down Blackpool”. Shirley says “a new day, a new George with a fantastic vibe, loved you being front and centre on your own, best dance so far, a humble warrior and you want to make that final, I feel it”. Anton says “so good, gave it the salsa face, a magical Blackpool, not sure I’ve experience a better one”. Craig concludes “your salsa base was a little bit wide but hips were swinging, incredible lifts, loved the armography, you’re a true star”. Nine and a 10 or three? 7.58pm GMT George and Alexis’ salsa Closing the show in a big contrasting mood to last week’s emotive rumba from YouTuber George Clarke and his pro partner Alexis Warr. Getting his hips out for a party salsa. Fairground-ography and slightly 90s boyband moves to start. Embracing the flavour and the fun. Feeding off the energy of the club anthem, the extra dancers and the Tower Ballroom crowd. Lacking a little Cuban spice and flirty connection, maybe, but fast and rhythmic. More streetdance than salsa but lifts, tricks and entertainment. Dave Arch seems to have drafted in Fatman Scoop on vocals. Song: Rock This Party (Everybody Dance Now) by Bob Sinclar. The French DJ and producer’s 2006 hit samples the 90s club classic by C+C Music Factory. Jump to the rhythm, jump, jump to the rhythm, jump! Updated at 8.56pm GMT 7.53pm GMT Judges’ scores: 8, 9, 9,9 for a total of 35 points. Second from bottom as it stands but hey – no dance-off! 7.51pm GMT Judges’ comments: Shirley says “celebrated life for sure, elegant and expressive, flicks and kicks and sassy feeling, enjoyed it immensely”. Anton says “right up my street, stylish, sophisticated and so you”. Craig says “little stop moments could have had more definition, timing got out and an awkward underarm turn but I love the sultry temptress story and held your own completely, pure theatre, darling”. Motsi concludes “slick, tight, sensational, the right dance for you”. Nines ahoy? 7.48pm GMT Alex and Jojo’s Couple’s Choice Couple’s Choices have taken the top spot on the scoreboard for the past three years at Blackpool. Can Alex Kingston match Lewis’ 40 and make it four in a row? It’s also her pro partner Johannes Radebe’s fourth Blackpool performance in a row, matching Oti Mabuse but still two behind record-holder Kevin Clifton. They’ve been working with choreographer Matt Flint on this theatre-jazz number. Playing to Alex’s strength with plenty of character and solo work. She’s playing a big showbiz diva, which is always fun. So is Jojo in vest-and-evening gloves. Fast, precise and nailing the side-by-side synchronisation. Jazz-hands and Broadway flourishes. Musical medley making it a bit stop-start, maybe, but a proper production with lifts, sparks flying and her name in lights. Song: History Repeating/Look At Me by Propellerheads feat Miss Shirley Bassey/Geri Halliwell. A mash-up of the 1997 jazz-flavoured big beat hit and Ginger Spice’s debut solo single, which took inspiration from it two years later. Updated at 9.03pm GMT 7.42pm GMT Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams are also back. Joined in the audience by Diane from Traitors, I note. She’s not watching at home… But Ross is. 7.41pm GMT Judges’ scores: 9, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 39 points. Don’t go changing, Craig. A point behind Lewis. 7.38pm GMT Judges’ comments: Craig says “that’s how you score a goal, that was insane, sharp and exciting, I would’ve liked a little more softened Spanish line but dramatic, passionate, incredible”. Motsi says “I do not have a paddle to express how good that was”. Shirley says “Carlos, you’ve got me emotional, that choreography was of the highest quality, never seen a paso like it, you nailed everything like a top-class professional, epic and will go down in history”. Anton concludes “an absolute tour de force, I’d like to give you 25 for that, you will never dance better”. I smell more 10s but will Craig poop the party with a nine? 7.34pm GMT Karen and Carlos’ paso doble Former Lioness Karen Carney is only the second ever footballer to reach Blackpool, after her former teammate Alex Scott. She’s used to playing on big stages to big crowds from her playing career. Extra dancers must make this feel like a team sport too. Floor spin to start, like Ann Widdecombe but, youy know, good. Drama and passion as she plays a fortune teller and captures the paso’s fierce character with pro partner Carlos Gu. Swishy skirt. Flamenco posture and Spanish curve. Full of attitude with strong walks, aggressive stamps ad skirt-swishing. Dramatic as hell. Fierce and fabulous. Vamos! Song: O Fortuna by Carmina Burana. The movement from composer Carl Orff’s 1935 cantana is often used in adverts (Old Spice ahoy), TV soundtracks (hola, X Factor) and pop samples. It’s been called “the most overused piece of music in film history”. On Strictly, it was used for Richard Arnold’s paso and Katie Derham’s showdance with Anton. He might well mention this. 7.29pm GMT Judges’ scores: 9, 9, 9, 9 for a total of 36 points. 7.26pm GMT Judges’ comments: Shirley says “Hollywood in Blackpool, beautiful footwork, I’m exhausted just watching, creative choreography was a sight to be seen but work on the upper half and get that gap closed”. Anton says “you covered the floor and put all the steps in, amazing, head not in correct position but gorgeous”. Craig says “a lot of gapping but flew around faster than a seagull swooping for a chip, great timing, exceptional performer”. Motsi concludes “worked hard on that stretch, light, fluid, loved it”. Nines ahoy? Updated at 7.32pm GMT 7.23pm GMT Amber and Nikita’s quickstep Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin topped last week’s leaderboard but still haven’t scored a 10 from Craig or Shirley. Can she tempt out their maximum paddles tonight? This could be the right number to do it. Quicksteps have scored 24 perfect 10s at Blackpool, the most of any dance style. Scallop-ography to start, then taking advantage of that big bouncy floor by flying across the huge space. Her left shoulder has been criticised in previous ballroom numbers, so Amber needs to keep it down. A feelgood song about friendship and cheesy smiles to match. Fast, frothy, energetic and light on her feet. Admirable stamina. Some gapping and topline wobbles but bags of slick showbizzy fun. Streamers fall. Song: Reach by S Club 7. This 2000 bubblegum pop hit was co-written by Cathy Dennis and Republica keyboardist Andrew “Toddy” Todd. 7.19pm GMT Ashley Roberts and Danny Mac are on the front row. You’ll see them as part of tomorrow’s group dance. Danny is very Zoolander-does-Blue Steel, isn’t he? Bless that really, really ridiculously good-looking man. 7.18pm GMT Judges’ scores: 8, 8, 8, 9 for a total of 33 points. She’d be in dance-off danger if there was a dance-off. But just a reminder that score and viewer votes will be carried over to next week. 7.15pm GMT Judges’ comments: Anton says “right on form, loved the intensity and characterisation, slightly detached from Jules, played hard to get and held your own, strong performance, one of your best dances”. Craig says “wanted smoother weight changes and transitions but footwork nice and the style suits you”. Motsi says “you’re the comeback queen, fight back stronger, very clear and defined, loved that, just watch for the tiny details”. Shirley concludes “I could feel your desire, reacted well to other dances, point your toes and polish the extremes but moody, atmospheric, good work”. Eights and nines, do we think? 7.11pm GMT Balvinder and Julian’s Argentine tango EastEnders actor Balvinder Sopal is bookies’ favourite for elimination yet again but has shown plenty of fighting spirit to survive four dance-offs. She’s been excited both about reaching Blackpool and performing an Argentine tango, the dance she wanted to do all along. It’s her Australian pro partner Julian Caillon’s first time in Blackpool too. Brolly-ography. Close hold, drama and intensity. Trying to create an intimate moment in the Tower Ballroom’s big space with a dark set and black-and-midnight blue costumes. Lacking a little passionate chemistry, perhaps, and Balvinder is visibly counting but precise, powerful, clean and committed, with intricate footwork and staccato moments. Hesitant in the lifts. A little too posed, placed and walky-aroundy for me. Song: The Logical Song by Supertramp. The prog-meets-pop band’s biggest hit, frontman Roger Hodgson based this 1979 single’s lyrics on his childhood experiences of being sent away to boarding school and won an Ivor Novello Award. German techno band Scooter covered it in 2001. 7.08pm GMT Tess gets a lift from the extra dancers. She really has relaxed and seemed to enjoy herself more since announcing her departure, which has been lovely to see. 7.06pm GMT Judges’ scores: 10, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 40 points. Only the fifth perfect score in Blackpool, apart from grand finals. 7.04pm GMT Judges’ comments: Motsi says “insane energy, everything in place, even accelerated at the end, the roof is off”. Shirley says “a Blackpool extravaganza, synchronicity and quality takes hours of work, extraordinary”. Anton says “unbelievable, I wonder if you can sing, speechless, breathtaking”. Craig concludes “one word, beginning with F, fab-u-lous!”. Is Katya about to get her first Blackpool 10s? 7.00pm GMT Lewis and Katya’s Charleston Actor Lewis Cope goes from Hartlepool to Blackpool. He and pro partner Katya Jones stripped things back for their tango last week. Now it’s time to let loose with bags of energy and big moves to match. Both in matching pale pink tailoring. All a bit Jim Carrey in The Mask. Leaps off a pool table. Fun, upbeat and full of bounce. Human windmill. Cartwheel. Lots of flicks, kicks, lifts and shaking of hips. Bags of character and plenty of ankle swivel. Katya was eliminated here last year with Wynne Jones and has never scored a 10 in Blackpool. I suspect that could be about to change. Song: I Bet That You Look Good on the Dancefloor by Arctic Monkeys. A big band version of the Sheffield indie rocker band’s 2005 breakthrough hit. Its only previous Strictly appearance was for Joe Sugg’s showdance in the 2018 final. It scored 39 points. An omen? 6.57pm GMT Nobody will leave Strictly this weekend Well, there we are. They managed to keep that secret. Celebrations and jubilations. No dance-off tomorrow, so they can just enjoy the occasion. However, their scores will be carried over to next week, so it’s not entirely academic tonight. It’ll make filling out a 45-minute results show “interesting”, though. 6.56pm GMT Our Strictly stars™ Our six pro-celebrity pairs emerge for a wave and to sample the Tower Ballroom atmosphere. Not much fancy dress but Nikita’s got his shirt on for a change. They all look a bit nervous and over-awed. 6.55pm GMT La Voix withdraws from the competition She’s not only missing tonight with a foot injury but has been forced to leave the contest altogether. Shame. What will that mean for the elimination, I wonder? Will we get a week without anyone leaving? Or a two-way final? 6.54pm GMT Judges join us Fresh from that group dance, the paddle-raising panel of Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke take their floorside seats. Will their 10 paddles make many appearances tonight? Shirley’s slipped into a medieval frock. Very Game Of Thrones. Tess and Claud join them for some Livin’ La Vida Loca moves. Love to see it. 6.52pm GMT Frockwatch Here come our Tower Ballroom hosts, so time for a seaside edition of our usual sartorial smackdown. Tess Daly is full-length white sparkles, complete with cape. Claudia Winkleman in long-sleeved red. Tess wins. 6.51pm GMT The celebrities come out now too, also fully sequin-spangled. So many people on that dancefloor, it must be a Health & Safety issue. 6.50pm GMT Sequins. Kylie covers. This is camper than Christmas in a tent shop. 6.49pm GMT The judges join in. Shirley and Motsi both in glittery gowns. Anton and Craig in white tuxedos. With the celebrities, professionals, extra dancers and the four judges, there’s a whopping 47 people on the dancefloor. 6.48pm GMT Tragedy! 5,6,7,8! Stomp! Deeper Shade Of Blue! One for Sorrow! Scared of the Dark! Chain Reaction! Steps appear to have got younger, eerily. Aussie pro Dianne Buswell is looking quite heavily pregnant now, bless her. 6.47pm GMT Steps open the show We kick off with a spectacular group number, soundtracked by 90s pop five-piece Steps performing a medley of their biggest hits - all of which feature in their new jukebox musical Here & Now. Updated at 9.23pm GMT 6.46pm GMT Cue clapalong credits Nine of these couples didn’t get to make the coach trip up the M6. Wonder if any of them will be on the front row of the audience instead? 6.45pm GMT Aaaand we’re off to the seaside! Cue Blackpool-themed montage as the celebrities use the B-word a lot. And the show hasn’t even properly begun yet. 6.43pm GMT Sip a garish hen party cocktail and plonk a sparkly Stetson on your head. We’re about to be go live to Blackpool Tower Ballroom… 6.41pm GMT Alan Carr’s Numberwang just winding up on BBC1. Listen very carefully and you might be able to hear Celia Imrie let out a nervous fart. Mere minutes to wait now… 6.39pm GMT High seaside scores expected Couples tend to pull out all the stops and the sea air invariably goes to the judges’ heads, meaning the average score at Blackpool is a whopping 33 points. Outside of the final, which has previously been held here, there have been four perfect 40s awarded in the Tower Ballroom. Will we see another tonight? It’s just five minutes until we find out… 6.37pm GMT Lancs Vegas hoofing highlights What are your all-time favourite Strictly moments from Blackpool? Ones that spring to my mind include Jill Halfpenny’s jive, Susanna Reid’s paso doble, Kelvin Fletcher’s Jailhouse Rock jive, Simon Webbe’s Argentine tango, Great Ed Balls of Fire and Anton using a canary-coloured Ann Widdecombe to mop the floor. Let us know yours in the comments. Can you smell the fish, chips and doughnuts yet? 6.35pm GMT Who might bow out in Blackpool? After her narrow dance-off escape last week and in the absence of La Voix, bookies’ odds-on favourite for the Blackpool boot is Balvinder Sopal. If she’s in the bottom two for the fifth time, it will match the unwelcome Strictly record currently held by Jamelia. But with the pressure on for the big occasion, will things go according to the form book? Can plucky Bal pull off a great escape again? Ten minutes until the glittery curtain comes up… 6.30pm GMT Blackpool leaderboard is rarely a glitterball omen A quirk of the stats: past Strictly form tells us that whoever tops the Blackpool scores usually doesn’t go on to lift the glitterball. Kelvin Fletcher and Ellie Leach both finished joint top and went on to win but they’re the only ones in the last 12 years. Last year, Sarah Hadland and Tasha Ghouri shared top spot, going on to become beaten finalists. We’re into the contest’s climactic four weeks after this weekend, so the final is in sight and the stakes are increasingly high. It’s 15 minutes until the clock strikes Strictly… 6.27pm GMT Dabbers out for Strictly Bingo: Blackpool Edition Cross off the coastal occurrences as they happen! Take a drink for each! End up in a dodgy seafront disco wearing a feather boa! Here’s your 10-point seaside spotter’s checklist: Audience says “Aww!” when Tess and Claud announce La Voix’s absence with injury Audience says “Aww!” when Tess and Claud refer to this being their last trip to the Tower Ballroom When musical guest Steps perform, there are two members you don’t recognise and can’t name Hosts/judges make knowing in-joke about the cast and crew hitting the town post-show Judges join in group dance, including a run of spins from Shirley/Craig, dad-dancing from Anton and Latin wiggles from Motsi VT includes a couple screaming on a rollercoaster/scoffing chips/playing in amusement arcades Cute/creepy snap of a Strictly pro in Blackpool as a child dance prodigy with bad hair and rictus grin A bouncy routine is said to “take full advantage of the sprung floor” Visual gag involving a seagull or donkey Anton makes misty-eyed reference to Blackpool dances of yore with two left-footed partners 6.25pm GMT We do like to dance beside the seaside We’ll all hear the B-word a lot tonight, so what makes the Tower Ballroom so special? Well, the spiritual home of ballroom dancing dates back to 1894 and positively oozes with hoofing history. As the home of Strictly’s parent show, Come Dancing, and host to professional competitions, it means a lot to the pros and judges. The room itself is full of ornate Victorian splendour. Crystal chandeliers hanging from the high ceiling, with atmospheric tiered balconies and intricate carved panelling. That famed sprung, bouncy dancefloor is several times bigger than the familiar Elstree ballroom, hence the use of backing dancers, props and production tricks to help fill the cavernous space. The 600-strong audience, twice as big as the usual capacity, further enhances the atmosphere. It’s a Strictly landmark weekend which always adds extra glamour. Who will rise to the occasion in these grand surroundings? We’ll get our first clues in 20 minutes… 6.20pm GMT Little Miss Moffatt sat in the ballroom In much less grim news, Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt was unveiled yesterday the first celebrity taking part in this year’s Christmas Special. She will be paired with Strictly pro Vito Coppola. The next of the six participating celebs will be announced on Monday. It’s 25 minutes until the sparkly curtain comes up… 6.18pm GMT Another blow for controversy-plagued franchise Elsewhere in Strictly news this week, the rocky time for the show continued. On Thursday, it emerged that an unnamed “Strictly star” was arrested last month on suspicion of rape. Hertfordshire Police confirmed that the man had been released on bail under investigation. The man is alleged to have raped a woman “after a BBC event” but it’s been reported that the victim wasn’t a contestant or professional dancer on the show, but had met the man due to his participation in the competition. The development is not understood to be related to the current series. 6.17pm GMT La Voix laid up with crocked foot It was announced on Tuesday that La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec won’t be performing tonight due to the drag queen’s foot injury. She has been advised by doctors to rest and under Strictly rules, will get a pass through to next week when it is hoped they will be able to dance again. A shame because tonught was going to be something of a homecoming for La Voix, who began her drag career here. We wish her a speedy recovery. With only six competing couples tonight, the running time has been trimmed by 10 minutes. Half an hour until the Blackpool glitterball starts spinning… 6.12pm GMT Who will deliver a Blackpool towering performance? It’s time to illuminate an illustrious dancefloor. Good evening and welcome to the ninth live weekend of Strictly Come Dancing 2025. I’m Michael, your seaside sidekick for tonight’s live show. You are cordially invited to watch along with me as our pro-celebrity pairs make their dance debuts on the Tower Ballroom’s fabled floor. Yes, its one of the biggest nights in the Strictly calendar and anticipation is as high as a certain 158-metre landmark. Last weekend, Amber Davies topped the leaderboard for the first in six weeks when her dramatic paso doble scored 38 points. The bottom two on the scoreboard were duly consigned to the dance-off, where Balvinder Sopal defeated Vicky Pattison, who was sadly sent home. Now the lucky survivors make the 230-mile trip north to the traditional home of ballroom – the stage to which every dancer aspires. As always, tonight’s scores will be combined with the public vote and the bottom two will dance for survival on Sunday night. Will we get a seaside surprise? It’s showtime at 6.45pm on BBC One (it was originally scheduled for 6.35pm but the show has been shortened for reasons we’ll come to shortly). I’ll be liveblogging from 6.15pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, reaction and Blackpool megabantz. So knot a sparkly handkerchief on your head, roll up your trousers for a paddle 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 hoofing hubbub. I’ll promenade down there whenever I can to see what you’re all saying and report your reactions up top. It’s week nine and the Tower Ballroom is looking fine. Nearly time to staaaart seaside dancing!