Strictly Come Dancing bids farewell to Alex Kingston this week, as the 62-year-old actress became the eighth celebrity to exit the competition.
Despite giving it her all, mistakes during her routine ultimately cost her a spot in the next round.
The Dance-Off Drama
Alex and her professional partner Johannes Radebe faced a tense showdown against EastEnders’ Balvinder Sopal and Julian Callion.
Balvinder and Julian, who made it through the dance-off for a record fifth time, narrowly survived while Alex was sent home.
This week’s scores combined last week’s Blackpool Special votes, the judges’ points, and extra scores from the brand-new “Instant Dance” challenge introduced on Saturday.
Although Anton felt Alex and Johannes deserved saving, Craig, Motsi, and Shirley sided with Balvinder and Julian, sealing their quarter-final place.
Emotions on the Results Stage
Alex spoke candidly to presenter Tess Daly about her time on the show, describing the experience as beyond anything she had imagined.
“I had never in my wildest dreams imagined that I would last this long,” she said.
“It’s been just the most incredible journey for me.
I feel proud of myself because I’ve loved every moment. You can tell by my smile.”
She also highlighted the bond she’d formed with Johannes, calling him “a friend for life.”
Johannes returned the sentiment, praising Alex’s resilience and the memories they’d made together.
“I’ve never grinned as much as I have in the last few weeks,” he said.
“These memories are just the beginning for us. We are very much a Strictly family.”
Highlights From the Results Show
The results show featured standout performances, including a Rumba to Grace Carter’s “Wicked Game,” choreographed by Oti Mabuse and Marius Lepure, and an emotional routine from Myles Smith performing “Stay” with professional dancers Kai Widdrington and Karen Hauer.
Next week, the remaining five couples will tackle Musicals Week in the quarter-final, set to air on Saturday at 7.45pm.
A Tough Night on the Floor
Alex’s elimination came after a rare stumble in her routine, earning just 23 points out of 40.
She attributed the errors to fatigue after weeks of intense rehearsals.
Judge Motsi Mabuse wasn’t lenient, humorously noting: “One mistake I can forgive, two mistakes I’ll look the other way, three mistakes? I am not Mother Christmas!”
Speaking to Claudia Winkleman, Alex reflected on the physical toll of the show.
“It’s never really discussed when you’re at the sharp end how our bodies are suffering,” she admitted.
“My 62-year-old self is thinking, what are you saying? But my spirit and soul is saying, la la la, I don’t want to know, I want to keep dancing.”
Fans Rally Behind Alex
Fans quickly took to X to express their disappointment and admiration.
Comments ranged from “Gutted for Alex” to “She showed such humility during the judges’ comments” and “I want to give Alex a hug.”
Viewers also noticed Alex limping after her performance, sparking concern for her wellbeing.
Comments included: “Why is Alex limping? If she’s hurt, surely it’s not a good idea to continue dancing?” and “Poor Alex looked like she was limping after choosing her outfit! Hope she’s okay.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the heartbreak of elimination, Alex leaves with her head held high and cherished memories with Johannes.
The show continued with influencer George Clarke taking the floor for a quickstep with pro Alexis Warr, following his first-ever perfect 10 last week, reminding fans that the competition remains fierce.
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