Strictly Come Dancing fans witnessed an emotional farewell this weekend as former rugby star Chris Robshaw and his professional partner Nadiya Bychkova became the third couple to leave the competition.
Their exit came after a nail-biting dance-off against EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal and her partner Julian Caillon.
Tense Dance-Off Sees Chris and Nadiya Exit
During Sunday’s results show, both couples performed their routines for a second time.
Balvinder and Julian delivered a fiery Paso Doble to Diablo Rojo by Rodrigo y Gabriela, while Chris and Nadiya took to the floor with a sizzling Salsa to Ricky Martin’s Maria.
After both performances, the judges deliberated, leaving the final decision in the hands of Craig Revel Horwood.
The outspoken judge ultimately chose to save Balvinder and Julian, confirming Chris and Nadiya’s departure from the competition.
Chris Reflects on His Journey
Speaking with host Tess Daly, Chris opened up about his time on the show. “I’ve loved it. I’ve had an amazing partner,” he said.
“When I started, I had no confidence, and to be told I have world-class qualities on the dancefloor today, even though we have to go home, that’s incredible. It’s given me such confidence.”
He added a heartfelt note to Nadiya: “I’m sorry. But it’s been an amazing journey.
You’ve been a brilliant teacher, and I’ve developed so much. Thank you.”
Nadiya Pays Tribute to Chris’ Growth
An emotional Nadiya Bychkova praised Chris’ transformation over the weeks.
“Chris, I’ve had a few wonderful weeks with you and seen the qualities that made you a captain on the rugby field.
To watch you blossom from a non-dancer into someone who loves and enjoys performing has been incredible,” she said.
She continued: “Sometimes on this show, you win by taking home a glitterball, but this year, I feel like I’ve already won just by having you as my partner. Thank you so much.”
A Star-Studded Results Show
Sunday’s show also featured a musical performance of Been a Minute by Leigh-Anne Pinnock, accompanied by a fierce group Tango performed by Strictly professionals including Michelle Tsiakkas, Luba Mushtuk, Nancy Xu, Jowita Przystał, Gorka Marquez, and Neil Jones.
Fans were also teased with a trailer for the upcoming Icons Week, where celebrities will embody musical legends in next weekend’s performances.
Chris Opens Up About Mental Health
In a candid interview, Chris spoke about how Strictly helped him navigate the mental challenges that followed his rugby career.
“My biggest competition is my own brain. I can’t let anxious thinking win. I have to quiet the negative thoughts that tell me I’m not good enough,” he shared.
He admitted that retiring from rugby left him feeling a loss of purpose. “It was really hard when I left rugby.
That was my whole world. I felt like I lost myself a bit. Mentally, it’s tough.
But training with purpose on Strictly has reignited that spark. Dancing has made me so happy.”
Family Encourages Openness
Chris revealed that his two sons, Wilding and Hunter, helped him open up about his mental health.
“I’ve always been hard on myself and conditioned to want to win. When I get low scores or end up in the bottom two, it feels like a failure.
But having the boys has taught me it’s important not to pretend I have it all together.”
He explained that losing sometimes feels like personal failure: “It feels like I’ve let people down.
That anxiety is always there, but talking about it has been really important for me.”
What’s Next on Strictly
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday, 25th October at 6:20 pm, with the results show airing on Sunday, 26th October at 7:15 pm.
Fans will eagerly watch as the remaining celebrities prepare for the highly anticipated Icons Week.