BBC Strictly Come Dancing embroiled in new 'fix' row after judges 'predict' winner
Strictly Come Dancing has been accused of being a 'fix' by viewers as they claim that EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick has an 'unfair advantage' after tonight's show
by James Brinsford · ChronicleLiveStrictly Come Dancing has been caught up in a fresh 'fix' controversy after EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick was tipped for the Glitterball Trophy victory. The 30 year old star graced the previous night’s show with a feathery Elton John getup and quickstep that left the judges, who are now being accused of swaying the audience by endorsing Jamie's likelihood of triumphing in the BBC dance contest.
Jamie, known for his role as Jay Brown on Albert Square, faced criticism from fans suggesting he had an unfair edge due to his prior win in the Strictly Christmas Special with a remarkably similar quickstep performance. After dancing to Elton's classic 'I'm Still Standing', he secured a notable score of 30 from the judges.
The panel of judges lavished compliments upon him, with Anton Du Beke saying it outright: "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 echoed this sentiment: "Yes, Anton, I think the Glitterball is quite close to you! " Following these comments, show host Tess Daly emphasised the significance of their words about Jamie’s prospects: "Thank you judges. Two out of four mentioned the Glitterball... that's big news! ".
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Jamie tried to play down the high praise, stating that it's premature to discuss the Glitterball trophy. He said: "It's a bit too early to be mentioning the Glitterball, but nonetheless, I appreciate everything they say.", reports the Mirror.
Social media users expressed views that Jamie had been granted an 'unfair advantage', with one particular post noting: "The judges mentioning the glitterball after Jamie's quickstep, the dance that won him the Christmas special last year. If that's not a coincidence I don't know what is."
Jamie quashed any speculation around the infamous Strictly curse by confidently saying "nobody has to worry".
He clarified his relationship with pro dancer Michelle Tsiakkas as strictly professional, even affectionately familial. Giggling during an interview with The Mirror, he said: "The idea of that whole Strictly curse, well it's definitely not going to be a thing here because it would be weird doing that with my sister. Michelle and I met before Strictly and we instantly had a connection. But she is like a sister, an aunt, a mum, a best friend. She's looking after me, she's mothering me."
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