BBC Strictly Come Dancing pro branded 'cheat' by co-star in awkward moment

Strictly chaos as Jamie Borthwick branded 'cheat' by co-star in awkward moment (Image: BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing faced a moment of discomfort when Jamie Borthwick was called out as a "cheat" because of his former appearance on the show.

The dazzling BBC One spectacle made a comeback on screens on Saturday (September 14), launching its landmark 20th series. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman returned to host, introducing a new lineup of 15 celebrities eager to dance their way to victory in the pre-recorded opening show.

Stars such as JB Gill, Tasha Ghouri, and Nick Knowles are all set to demonstrate their dancing prowess, vying for a place in the climax of the show and the coveted Glitterball Trophy.

Regular judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke are back too, ready to assess the initial performances of the celeb-pro pairings. Also marking her return is the audience's beloved Amy Dowden, after her battle with breast cancer.

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Yet, the atmosphere grew tense when EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick was labelled a "cheat" for his participation in last year's Strictly Christmas special, which he won, reports the Mirror.

EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick was labelled a "cheat" for his participation in last year's Strictly Christmas special (Image: BBC)

Tess addressed Jamie saying: "Jamie you had a taste of Strictly last Christmas," which prompted co-star Wynne Evans to interrupt jestingly: "Cheat!" followed by a strategic cough. The studio audience burst into laughter at this exchange while Jamie looked on bemused, with Tess swiftly attempting to steer the conversation forward.

Wynne's 'dig' was quickly noticed by fans at home. Writing on X: "Me and my mum are dying of laughter when Wynne saying "cheat" when Jamie was talking." Someone else added: "Jamie getting the 'cheat' card [along with Shayne and JB surely?"

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Elsewhere on the first Strictly episode, fans were not too impressed minutes in, with plenty criticising the pre-recorded opening video. The intro featured the professional dancers and hosts showcasing their moves on a party bus - but it left some viewers at home feeling embarrassed.

On X, one fan wrote, "All this is so cringe." Another added, "#Strictly The dreadful acting is making me cringe big time! " A third person said, "Nah sorry the intro is naff!." A fourth social media user said, "Well this intro is crap."

Nevertheless, some fans were thrilled to see the show return: "Oh this intro sketch is so camp i'm a bit obsessed." Someone else agreed: "Love the opening so glad Strictly is back."

Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday, September 21 on BBC One

BBC Strictly Come Dancing pro branded 'cheat' by co-star in awkward moment

BBC Strictly Come Dancing pro branded 'cheat' by co-star in awkward moment

BBC Strictly Come Dancing pro branded 'cheat' by co-star in awkward moment

BBC Strictly Come Dancing pro branded 'cheat' by co-star in awkward moment

BBC Strictly Come Dancing pro branded 'cheat' by co-star in awkward moment