The tension behind the glitter and sequins on Strictly Come Dancing has hit new heights — and it’s all because of a controversial new twist.
Producers have introduced a “bottom four” format that’s reportedly leaving celebrities and their professional partners absolutely petrified on results night.
According to insiders, Sunday’s elimination show has become a nerve-wracking ordeal, as contestants fear being stuck in the final four spots — a position that drags out the suspense and makes the threat of going home even more painful.
A Twist That’s Fueling More Drama Than Dance
Behind the scenes, sources told the Daily Mail that this new system doesn’t rely entirely on viewer votes.
Instead, two couples are randomly chosen to join the two pairs with the fewest votes, creating a “bottom four” that mixes luck with performance.
The move, according to insiders, is all about cranking up the drama for viewers — but for the contestants, it’s a rollercoaster of nerves.
“The bottom four keeps everyone on their toes,” one insider said. “But it’s unnecessary.
Some stars who’ve actually done well in the public vote still end up sweating it out at the end. It’s anxiety they don’t need.”
When Strong Dancers Still Feel the Heat
Last weekend’s show made that tension crystal clear.
Ellie Goldstein and Balvinder Sopal ended up facing off in the dance-off, but they weren’t alone in the dreaded bottom four — Amber Davies and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey were also dragged into the mix.
What made it even more frustrating was that Amber and Harry may have finished much higher in the public vote.
Yet, thanks to the random selection twist, they still found themselves staring down the possibility of elimination.
Amber Davies Faces Another Close Call
For Amber Davies, it’s been a nerve-shredding few weeks.
The Love Island winner, who also has a strong West End background, had just survived a dance-off the week before — beating Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink despite ranking second on the leaderboard.
Now, being placed in the bottom four again has left her feeling the pressure all over.
Sources close to Amber said she’s trying to stay positive, even when the results night feels brutal. “She wasn’t shocked,” a friend shared.
“Amber knows Strictly is unpredictable — it’s an entertainment show, and anyone can end up in the bottom. She’s taking it in stride and staying focused.”
Perfect Scores and Tough Breaks
While some stars were sweating it out, others were celebrating big wins.
Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope and his partner Katya Jones wowed the judges, earning the first perfect score of the series.
Meanwhile, Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and pro dancer Karen Clifton landed at the bottom with just 26 points — proof that even fan favorites can have a rough night.
Unfortunately, Ellie Goldstein and her partner Aljaž Škorjanec were the ones to go home after the judges chose to save Balvinder and her dance partner.
Ellie Reflects on Her Strictly Journey
After her elimination, Ellie looked back fondly on her time on the show, even if she admitted how nerve-wracking those results nights could be. Speaking on It Takes Two, she said:
“I loved being with Vito, he’s the best partner in the world.
Dancing on the live shows was amazing — but those results? So scary! I loved my tan, loved being in Elstree… it’s just been the best experience.”
Amber Keeps Dancing and Looking Ahead
Amber, who stepped in last minute to replace Dani Dyer, continues to impress the judges and the audience with her determination.
Even after multiple close calls, she remains upbeat about her journey.
“Winning isn’t what drives her,” a friend explained. “Amber’s just grateful to be part of Strictly.
She’s working hard, staying humble, and soaking up every bit of support from the theatre community.”
What’s Next for Strictly’s Contestants?
As Strictly Come Dancing moves deeper into the competition, the new “bottom four” twist looks set to keep everyone guessing.
Whether it’s loved or loathed, one thing’s certain — it’s turning Sunday nights into a dramatic showdown where no one feels safe, no matter how many points they’ve earned.