Strictly Come Dancing witnessed its sixth celebrity elimination as Olympian and former Gladiator Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, partnered with professional dancer Karen Hauer, was voted off following a tense dance-off. The pair found themselves in the bottom two for the first time, facing off against Drag Race UK runner-up La Voix and her partner Aljaz Skorjanec on Sunday night.
Despite Harry scoring 30 points—just above La Voix’s 29, the lowest of the evening—all four judges, Anton Du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, and Motsi Mabuse, unanimously saved La Voix, sending Harry home.
The decision sparked immediate backlash on social media. Fans expressed disbelief and frustration, with many questioning the judges' choice. One fan tweeted, “Sorry I love La Voix but surely Harry was the better dancer in the dance-off? Not even one vote to save Harry? :( #Strictly.” Others called the result “ridiculous” and speculated that it was a fix to progress La Voix to the Blackpool round.
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Reflecting on his exit, Harry expressed deep gratitude to Karen and highlighted the unique challenge of transitioning from athletics to dance. “You’ve understood my crazy brain,” he shared. “I’m such a logical person, trying to dance – and obviously doing what I do: Olympic sprinter, Gladiator – now I’m trying to be a dancer.” He also mentioned the emotional impact on his daughter and his determination to remain positive: “No matter what happens, there’s always a silver lining.”
Karen Hauer praised Harry’s work ethic and character, saying, “I am extremely proud. We’ve had the best time. You’re such a gentleman, you’re a hard worker, you listen… it was an honour to teach you.”
Sunday’s results show also featured a stirring musical performance by James Morrison of his song “Fight Another Day,” complemented by professionals Jowita Przystal and Neil Jones. The Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment performed alongside the Strictly professionals in a poignant tribute for Remembrance Sunday, set to Sam Fender’s “Remember My Name.”
The competition continues with eight couples left to dance on BBC One next Saturday at 6.25pm, followed by the results show on November 16 at 7.15pm.