Strictly Come Dancing fans are convinced that Alex Kingston’s departure from the competition was influenced more by her health struggles than her dance performance.
The Doctor Who and ER star faced EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal in the dance-off. While judges ultimately sent Alex home, the decision was not unanimous. Shirley Ballas, holding the casting vote after Anton du Beke chose to save Alex, opted to save Balvinder, stating Balvinder and partner Julian Caillon had ‘upped their game’ more.
However, fans took to social media platform X to argue that Alex performed better in the dance-off and suggested her exit might have been motivated by health concerns rather than dance ability.
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One fan tweeted: “Definitely best outcome as can’t see how #AlexKingston would have been ok for next weekend as clearly struggling and looks in pain with upper thigh area…. would have been another none elimination weekend cover her withdrawing.”
Another remarked: “Alex was limping and probably shouldn’t have been allowed to dance — but she was clearly dosed up by the time they got to the DO. She was SO much better. Technically I thought she was a tad better than Bal but lacking energy — the closest dance-off yet for me.”
Others shared similar views, suggesting Alex was quietly asking to be sent home due to injury and exhaustion. One fan noted, “Alex is clearly injured and seemed to almost be begging to be sent home during live show so if people disagree - well seems she was on the verge of withdrawing anyway.”
Alex had been candid about the physical toll of the competition. She previously spoke about her challenging health journey, including a battle with cancer and performing with a broken rib during a Blackpool show.
During Saturday’s performance, Alex shared, “It’s never really discussed when you’re at the sharp end how your bodies are really suffering…My 62 year old self is saying ‘What are you putting me through?’ But my spirit and soul is going (fingers in ears) I don’t want to know, I want to keep dancing.”
Following her elimination, she reflected on the experience, saying, “I never in my wildest dreams imagined I would last this long and it’s been just the most incredible – as Anton always says, it’s the journey – and it has been the most incredible journey for me.”
Alex also praised her dance partner Johannes, calling him “a friend for life” and crediting him for her progress in the competition.