Although I have supported Jo Wood’s efforts on Strictly up to now, I think she showed no respect to Brendan or the audience last weekend. She simply didn’t try at all and there was no reason for that. When you have the privilege of a brilliant dance professional concentrating just on you - what a privilege! - the least you can do is to try your best. On her last appearance, Jo just looked pathetic and unrehearsed, and I’m glad she was voted off. But Brendan deserves full praise for what he achieved with her as far as it went.
Here’s my views as a dance school principal on the performances of the remaining contestants last week:
Jade and Ian
Jade is trying really hard but she just hasn’t mastered the bounce required for the samba. She still looks like she is walking rather than dancing. Len described it well – she is rather flat footed. Fabulous outfit, though!
Chris and Ola
A very well choreographed routine and Chris coped very well with the foxtrot steps which are quite difficult for a man. His hands look like bunches of bananas, though; he has stretched his fingers but he needs to correct their position.
Phil and Katya
This was definitely not Phil’s dance. He got the general idea but it looked very clumsy and hesitant and messy.
Zoe and James
A lovely simple routine with grace and elegance. Zoe didn’t deserve to be in the bottom two the previous week and she should stay in the competition for many weeks to come.
Craig and Flavia
It looked like he had forgotten the steps at the end and he just hasn’t improved at all. It just wasn’t his week.
Ricky and Erin
I thought this was the best dance of the night. Absolutely charming and very elegant. Well done, Ricky.
Ricky and Natalie
At least he had the right hip movement and bounce. He is the only man who really moves his feet properly. It was a fantastic performance.
Natalie and Vincent
She looked very elegant and has a great sense of showmanship – she really sells the dances. But there was no razzle-dazzle last week - where has it all gone?
Laila and Anton
Much better; this couple really looked like they were dancing the samba. The outfits were gorgeous and suited the dance very well.
Ali and Bryan
This was beautiful, elegant and stylish. I really think that these two are headed for the final.