Strictly: Paul Merson is eliminated following dance-off
Nikita Kuzmin's stunned expression during the latest Strictly Come Dancing elimination round has sent viewers into fits of laughter.
The astonished pro was caught off guard when host Tess Daly named JLS star JB Gill and his dance partner Amy Dowden as the initial duo in the dance-off.
Fans quickly resonated with Nikita's shock, flocking to Twitter to express their concurrence, one even uploading a snapshot of his reaction, captioning it: "Me too Nikita, me too."
Another fan tweeted in solidarity: "Nikita's reaction was so me, what do you mean Amy and JB are in the dance off?! " Echoing this sentiment, another chimed in: "Same Nikita, same."
Others called for screenshots of his incredulous look: "I need a screenshot of Nikita's shocked face," reports the Mirror.
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A further tweet supported the widespread reaction: "Nikita's face at JB in the dance off says it all."
Despite landing in the bottom two on the leaderboard, JB and Amy were eventually saved from elimination after the dance-off against Paul Merson and Karen Hauer. Yet, this close call led Strictly followers to speculate about the existence of a new "curse" related to the programme's performance order.
Fans are drawing parallels between JB and Shayne Ward's predicaments as they both delivered consistent performances on Strictly Come Dancing only to land in the dreaded dance-off after opening the live shows in successive weeks.
Viewers took to social media to vent their frustrations, with one saying, "Again the curse of going first and being middle of the leaderboard. Remember to save your favourites - they're not always safe! " Meanwhile, another lamented: "The first to dance on the live show curse has struck AGAIN."
Upon his exit from Strictly, Paul received heartfelt praise for his dedication after Tess Daly inquired about his experiences on the show. Expressing his enthusiasm, he remarked: "It's been really good. For anybody I talk to, I would say you've got to go on this show. It's amazing - everybody," and then humorously noted:"There's a Tottenham fan over there called Lincoln and even he's nice."
He proceeded to praise his professional dance coach, Karen: "It's been amazing, honestly, amazing. I loved every minute of it, I've had a great teacher. She's been amazing, absolutely amazing, and I couldn't wish for a better coach. I've loved every minute of it. I can dance now. I won because I can dance. I couldn't dance before, but I can half dance now. It's a bonus, absolute bonus."
For her part, Karen returned the compliments, acknowledging Paul's incredible improvement and effort, which she feels emblematizes what Strictly stands for. She shared: "Absolutely, you've been a joy. I've never giggled this much. My abs are really tight now. I am so proud of you. Every week you have showed up, you have improved.
"You're what Strictly is about, and I want to thank you for bringing such joy and just showing everyone that it is possible with a little bit of work and lots of giggles."
The popular dance show, Strictly Come Dancing, will be back next week with a Halloween special. The remaining 11 celebrities are set to hit the dance floor in their most frightening costumes to perform routines themed around All Hallows' Eve.
Strictly Come Dancing returns on Saturday on BBC One.
