Shirley Ballas on Strictly and Sam Quek and Nikita Kuzmin during dance-off
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Strictly judge Shirley Ballas hits back as she blasts ‘childish’ criticism following latest elimination

Viewers were outraged by the results

Shirley Ballas has hit back at a viewer over the latest Strictly Come Dancing elimination.

Sam Quek, 36, and pro partner Nikita Kuzmin, 26, left the competition at the weekend following a dance-off against Johannes Radebe and Montell Douglas.

The vote-off sparked backlash, with many saying the wrong couple was sent home.

Tess Daly alongside Sam Quek and Nikita Kuzmin on Strictly
Sam and Nikita left Strictly at the weekend (Credit: BBC/Guy Levy)

Shirley Ballas on Strictly

Following the judges’ decision to send home Sam and Nikita, one viewer wrote on X: “So frustrating when the judges can’t mark properly as we then have the wrong people in the dance-off and the wrong couple going home.

You the public can vote to save your favorites. It gets childish to always blame the judges.

“Watching the smile fade off Sam’s face after she did well each week was infuriating when her male counterparts had mistakes ignored.”

The comment was spotted by head judge Shirley, who bit back.

Shirley Ballas talking on Strictly results show
Shirley hit back at the criticism over the latest elimination (Credit: BBC)

Strictly latest results

Shirley, 64, wrote: “The show has been on over twenty years the public vote makes a difference.

“You the public can vote to save your favorites. It gets childish to always blame the judges.”

For all the latest Strictly Come Dancing news head to our dedicated Facebook page here.

It comes after viewers voiced their outrage over Sam and Nikita’s exit. Speaking about her departure, Sam said: “I’m gutted, I just want to say thank you. I’ve learned so much. Strictly has just brought that spring in my step back. It’s just been an absolute joy.”

Nikita added: “I’m just in awe of this girl. Sometimes they say it’s about the journey, not the destination, but to me it’s about the company. Sam you are the most wonderful company I could have had.”

Sam Quek and Nikita Kuzmin alongside Johannes Radebe and Montell Douglas on Strictly
Viewers were outraged by the latest dance-off (Credit: BBC/Guy Levy)

One viewer ranted: “Wrong two in the dance-off… someone call Ofcom!”

Another commented: “So sorry Sam, you and Nikita deserved better we will miss you both gutted for you.”

Read more: Strictly star Johannes Radebe’s ‘anger’ as Shirley Ballas clashes with Craig Revel Horwood live on air

Someone else added: “Such a shame Sam and Nikita are out, much worse dancers still there.”

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What did you think of the latest elimination? Tell us on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix.


Rebecca Carter
Associate Editor (News)