BBC Strictly fans label elimination 'absolute farce' - and want change to judges decision

Strictly Come Dancing fans were up in arms, slamming Sunday night's dance-off results as "an absolute farce".

With the anticipation of Blackpool Week on the horizon, this weekend saw the couples giving their all to qualify for the iconic next stage.

Yet, two pairs found themselves in the hot seat having to dance once more following the lowest public votes, with the aim of securing the judges' backing.

Wynne Evans and Katya Jones, along with Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu, were the contestants who faced off with their American Smooth and Rumba routines for a second chance.

However, when it was time for the judging panel to cast their verdicts, there wasn't a consensus among the experts.

While Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse agreed to save Shayne, Anton Du Beke voted in favour of Wynne and so the final decision was left to head judge Shirley who chose to side with Anton and therefore sending Shayne packing.

Social media erupted as viewers disputed Head Judge Shirley Ballas' final call and demanded a revision of the elimination process.

A viewer tweeted: "An absolute farce of a decision. The votes were even at 2-2 so why should Shirley's vote be the deciding vote? If the votes are equal it should go to the public vote. Shayne was a far better dancer than Wynne. #strictly."

Another vented: "wtf? seriously, shirley, it's not about joyous, it's about who did it better. #Strictly."

And another frustrated fan suggested: "Urgh I hate that as head judge she decides. Should only be 3 judges then, or keep 4 and if it goes to deadlock like that, keep it as the public vote... whoever has the least votes goes. #strictly."

Someone else concurred: "There really shouldn't be a head judge, take it back to the public vote #strictly," as another added: "There is no need for a head judge (especially Shirley). Just go to the results of the public vote, lowest goes home... #strictly."

Although the former X Factor champion won't be making a comeback next time, eight celebrities remain in the fray and will be showcasing their moves at the renowned Blackpool Ballroom Tower next week.

The much-anticipated next live show teased a sneak peek at some tracks accompanying the star-studded performances tonight.

One highlight revealed was EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick's upcoming performance, which will be choreographed to Las Ketchup's iconic hit The Ketchup Song.

Additionally, former Towie personality Pete Wicks found himself chuckling when learning he'll be grooving to I'm Too Sexy For This Shirt with the Cha Cha Cha.

The question on everyone's lips is: Who will dazzle under the bright lights, and for whom will the Blackpool Ballroom Tower's stage mark their last dance?

Strictly Come Dancing continues every Saturday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.