Strictly Come Dancing 2024 viewers were left suggesting the judges were favouring certain contestants, not happy with the scores given to Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola

There was some upset with Strictly Come Dancing viewers on Saturday night, just weeks before the final.

Some fans feared Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola would be at risk and might not make the next two shows, after some “unfair” scores from the judges. For weeks the duo have impressed the judges and viewers, with some fans convinced they could win the Glitterball Trophy.

But week after week we’ve seen Sarah and Vito miss out on 10s, despite being told their routines are perfect. In the latest show, the duo performed a fun and energetic Charleston to Popular from Wicked.

Viewers thought it was amazing, with the judges also praising the routine. Motsi Mabuse said it was “a definite yes”, with “unbelievable” lifts. She said: “You did not miss a beat,” and that she “set the standard”.

Craig told the pair it was “prim” and “fantastic”, as well as “phenomenal”, telling them: “Bravo!” When the scores came in, Sarah got nines from Motsi and Craig, while the other judges gave them 10s.

Viewers called out the fact that no matter how well Sarah did and despite the comments, she still didn’t get a 10 from Craig or Motsi. Questioning the decision, some fans questioned if they “had something against” their performances.

One viewer said: “Craig sees no flaws with Sarah’s Wicked dance and still doesn’t give her a 10.” Another commented: “Judge Shenanigans: Motsi & Craig, keep it cool! Sarah & Vito’s Charleston? 10/10. Don’t start me this early!”

There was some upset with Strictly Come Dancing viewers on Saturday night ( 
Image:
BBC)
A third added: “Right come on Craig and Motsi what the hell have you got against Sarah and Vito… That was a very clear 40 but of course you two give a 9…. Every damn week they are marked down this is beyond disgusting now and isn’t fair. Saving the 40 for a certain someone.” Another fan commented: “Craig said perfect & she still can’t get a 40. It’s like they’ve got a vendetta on her.”

That said, Craig has notably not awarded hugely high scores all series, so perhaps he’s waiting for the final weeks. It comes as EastEnders favourite Jamie Borthwick was the latest exit of the series last weekend. He and pro dance partner Michelle Tsiakkas found themselves in the dreaded bottom two with Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe.

Jamie was sent home by the judges, while many viewers were shocked by the decision. Speaking about his departure last week, Jamie told the show: “Strictly is magic. That is all I can say. Strictly is magic.

“Not just everyone who you see in front of the camera, these four here [the judges], but everyone who works on this show. I have such a good bond and relationship with and that’s what made me want to do this show, it’s the people, not what I’m doing. I’ve had the best time.”

He went on: “I could ramble on all day about this one [Michelle]. She’s a new pro and she’s absolutely been the most amazing teacher. We have laughed like you wouldn’t believe. I have nothing but the utmost respect for everyone on the show, so thank you.”

Michelle added: “I just want to say it goes without saying Jamie is an amazing dancer, and he’s improved so much week by week. He’s worked so hard to get to where he is. It’s my first year with a partner and I’ve realised that it’s so much more than just the dancing, it’s the bonds and the friendships that you make. I waited two years for a partner and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.”