BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans say 'he's having us on' as they spot 'star' in first live show

Strictly Come Dancing fans have questioned whether Chris McCausland is 'having them on' with his coyness about his dance ability as he wowed during the first live show of the series.

The hit BBC One dance contest officially aired live for the first time on Saturday night (September 21) following the pre-recorded launch show last weekend and it was time for all 15 of the new Strictly couples to perform for the first time.

And comedian Chris, who is the show's first-ever blind contestant, was a stand-out star of the night as he performed an impressive Cha Cha to The Beatles' classic Twist and Shout with his professional dance partner Dianne Buswell.

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Speaking about the routine, Motsi Mabuse said: "We saw those Cha Cha walks. I hope you felt the energy in this room. You gave absolutely everything! You brought the Cha Cha to the room!"

Meanwhile, head judge Shirley Ballas was visibly moved as she praised Chris's performance: "When I saw the street lights at the beginning, I really didn't know what to expect," she said. "You had lifts just to take her between your legs, you have to time that, it's hard enough as it is! You had great skills when it came to listening to your partner.

"Technique... it's week one. Everybody has to get a little bit stronger in the technique. But that was, for me, actually, I'm quite shocked and very emotional. Fabulous."

Anton Du Beke was also left in awe as he told Chris and Dianne: "It's one of the most extraordinary things I've ever seen in my entire life. That thing at the end where you twirl her around under your legs, I've tried that I don't want to go anywhere near that step! Just brilliant."

Strictly viewers were also quick to agree as they took to social media to share their love for Chris and his performance. @GeraldineBezon said: "What a dance Chris and Dianne!!!! Totally inspirational - Fantastic!!!! @chrismccausland @dbuzz6589 #Strictly." @StandUnited68 commented: "Chris is having us all on, or else he is an absolutely star. Performance of the night. #strictly #StrictlyComeDancing."

@abbbielittle gushed: "I adore chris & dianne more than any other strictly pairing there has ever been. speechless - Chris was SO GOOD #strictly." @bobbyjones007 added: "Chris McCausland was absolutely superb tonight. The passion, the graft, the pure joy he took from it. Diane takes huge credit for that too. Just awesome #Strictly."