BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Chris McCausland 'done' after emotional moment
by Ryan Paton · NottinghamshireLiveStrictly Come Dancing fans were left in tears after witnessing Chris McCausland's moving performance on tonight's episode. The Liverpool-born comedian impressed the audience with his heartfelt routine with partner Dianne Buswell.
As the show's inaugural blind contestant, Chris had aimed to reach week 10 of the competition, coinciding with the visit of Dianne's parents, Rina and Mark, from Australia. It was a special moment as they hadn't seen their daughter perform live in seven years.
Chris expressed his gratitude towards Dianne in an exclusive interview with the ECHO earlier this month: "This is nothing without her, she has got the most out of me and I think it will be nice if we're both able to give something to each other. If we can get to that moment then stick a fork in me, I'll be done. But certainly, I'm hoping to stay in this for as long as possible."
Their shared goal was realised tonight when Mark and Rina watched from the audience as Chris and Dianne performed their Paso Doble, leaving Mark visibly moved and tearful. Viewers at home shared their emotional reactions on social media, with Ash posting: "Dianne's dad crying after their dance has absolutely sent me. so happy they could be here"
Katie remarked: "I cannot cope when I see a dad crying with pride" Jade shared: "Dianne's dad has me bawling" Claire commented: "Oh my Diane's Dad" and Karen added: "Oh gawd... Papa Buswell is making me well up. They are so proud of Dianne".
Ann remarked: "dianne's dad crying after seeing her and chris dance has me crying" Megan expressed: "MARK AND RINA HAVE ME SOBBING IM SO HAPPY CHRIS and DIANNE ARE STILL IN SO WE COULD GET THIS MOMENT" After receiving a score of 33 from the judges, Chris reflected on his journey, saying: "I thought it would be a disaster. When we realised it kind of wasn't everyone started talking Blackpool and Dianne said her parents were here the week after so that kind of became [the target]. It may be a bit of pipedream, but if we try hard enough and here we are.", reports the Liverpool Echo.
He added, "Its not just down to what we've down there. There's been a few weeks when we've needed the people at home to make sure we're here so thanks to everyone."
Despite Chris achieving his goal, fans like Jane aren't ready to see him go, as she stated: "In tears again Love them both Chris and Diane to win! " Jen also chimed in: "If Chris doesn't win @bbcstrictly #strictly there's no justice. I don't care if other people are "better", he and Dianne bring the joy and that's what it's about."