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November 20 Tess Daly hair update – Strictly 2009 week nineDoesn’t it come around quickly? Yes it’s time for our weekly review of the hairstyle sported by The Tess Daly (she’s everyone’s favourite newspaper) on Strictly Come Dancing. Saturday 14 November 2009 – unusually dark:
Oh, hold on, that was an imposter in the Tesspit, wasn’t it? Here’s Ms Daly with a complex parting arrangement:
OK, that concludes this week’s Tess Daly hair update. 30 best Strictly Come Dancing tweets of the week (week ending November 20 2009)Here is my selection of top Strictly tweets for this week. Lashings of praise for @ClaudiaWinkle’s appearance on last Saturday’s show – and rightly so. Quite a few new names on the list this week – welcome aboard. And some old favourites too – welcome back. You can follow me on twitter at twitter.com/thisismattball. And you can view all the tweets that I mark as favourites by using this link twitter.com/thisismattball/favorites. And here’s my Strictly Come Dancing Twitter list: http://twitter.com/thisismattball/strictly-come-dancing. NB: the list of tweets below is in reverse chronological order (most recent first) so you might want to start at the bottom and scroll up.
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November 19 It Takes Two review – Thursday 19 November 2009The show opened with the latest training hours. I write “latest” but they would most likely refer to the end of Wednesday. Anyway, here we go:
What no Jade Johnson? Well, there’ll be an announcement about her tomorrow. And that’s not a typing mistake, Laila and Anton have managed only one hour so far due to her injury. First on were Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone. Natalie had not expected to stay in the show this long so she is now back on set filming EastEnders. That has led to her and Vincent missing a day’s training for their samba. “I don’t want to moan,” she said. “I’m lucky to have two jobs at the moment.” Fair enough. Head judge Len’s masterclass was quite amusing. He and Winkleman attempted to recreate a move from James Jordan and Cherie Lunghi’s rumba from series six. With hilarious consequences. Last on were Lilia Kopylova, Darren Bennett and Flavia Cacace. Winkleman asked them each to name their best moment of the series. Here’s what they said: Flavia – Chris and Ola’s rumba. “One of the best of rumbas I’ve seen and for week one it was incredible.” Lilia – Ricky Whittle and Natalie’s quickstep. “Everything about it was brilliant.” Darren – well, that left him with Ali and Brian’s Viennese waltz, right? Wrong. He said his best moment was “any time the celebrity says how much they love the show; it makes the whole week worth it.” A nice sentiment to end the show. Share It
It Takes Two review – Wednesday 18 November 2009First on Wednesday’s it Takes Two were Chris Hollins and Ola Jordan. Chris said that ever since judge Bruno had referred to his paso doble foot stamping as “a child having a tantrum” people have been coming up to him and repeating Bruno’s phase at him. As ever he said it all with such good grace. They’re doing the Viennese waltz this week. Chris admitted: “I have failed to embrace it. I have found it really difficult.” Winkleman asked him: “Are you going to the final?” Chris replied: “To watch?” Then there was a fun section called The Len Commandments in which head judge Len Goodman delivered unto us his list of five things Strictly couples should comply with: 1. Thou shalt keep on time 2. Thou shalt not do lifts 3. Thou must have chemistry 4. Thou shalt have co-ordination 5. Thou shalt entertain Then we were given the all-important Jade Johnson injury update which I would summarise as: she’s still injured. Next up was the ever-improving media man James Jordan. Before he reviewed some early mid-week training footage Winkleman asked him about injuries by reminding him that Ola once broke his nose during a dance performance. “I had to pop it back in,” said James. Here is a summary of his comments: Ali and Brian – foxtrot. James is concerned about her posture. Natalie and Vincent – samba. Natalie needs to use her legs like springs to get that samba bounce. Ricky Groves and Erin – tango. Ricky will be able to get into character and sell it well. Chris and Ola – Chris doesn’t look like he’s enjoying the dance. Ricky Whittle and Natalie – foxtrot American smooth. Very good, James could find only one mistake in it. Then there were some answers to forum questions. I am unconvinced by this section as a regular item although it was interesting to learn that Erin likes fish finger sandwiches. Last on were Laila Rouass and Anton du Beke. So far they have managed to train for just one hour this week on their waltz due to Laila’s injury. She felt she had to dance last Saturday because of all the support she has had thus far. She added she felt guilty about two other couples ending up in the dance-off. Ah, Strictly can be cruel sometimes, can’t it? Share It
November 17 It Takes Two review – Tuesday 17 November 2009An uncomplicated show on Tuesday. Here are the highlights: No messing about at the start – head judge Len would be proud. Straight away Winkleman revealed that Jade Johnson has been told by the doctor that she can’t dance…for now. There will be updates as the week goes on but I think we can say it’s not looking good for Jade. Ricky Groves and Erin Boag, the couple the judges saved in the dance-off, were first on. Erin said she had been expecting to lose but then saw Phil’s mistakes and thought they had a chance. They’re doing the tango this week. Erin said: “It is going to be his best dance yet.” Winkleman wisely pointed out that they haven’t had a score of 30 or higher so far. Erin replied: “When we deserve a 30 we’ll get a 30,” which gives a lot of credibility to the judges’ scores. Ricky piped up: “Didn’t Julian Clary get to the final without getting a 30?” Next up was Karen Hardy in Choreography Corner. She said the number of injuries was not all that surprising at this stage of the competition. The celebs get tired, she said, and as a result get distracted which leads to injuries becoming more likely. Karen said the two dances most likely to produce injuries were the jive (pounding) and the quickstep (high energy). She commented on some of the performances from last Saturday night: Ali and Brian – she loved Ali’s hip action in that cha cha cha and Brian did a great job of using Ali’s ability in that area during the routine. Chris and Ola – they excelled in pas doble shaping (mirroring each other’s arm action – or “armography” as judge Craig now calls it) but when Chris was on his own he had a straight body whereas it should have been curved. The result was a lot of stamping instead of using his heel properly. This effectively means Karen agreed with judges Craig and Bruno’s assessment of Chris’ performance. Natalie and Vincent – Karen pointed out the contra-body moves (bodies stay together but feet move away from partner). Ricky Whittle and Natalie – Ricky should have been the leader but he looked like he was the follower, she said. “He’s trying to catch her up all the time,” Karen added. In her view the choreography was not great because there was so much stopping and starting. Natalie Lowe, take note. Then there was a set of clips about what is now labelled Terrible Tuesdays, the day that appears to be the most difficult when picking up a new routine each week. Effectively, the celebs are going through the early stages of a typical learning curve but that doesn’t make quite as good TV as calling it Terrible Tuesdays. Last on were three Strictly celebrity fans who were primed and ready with their sound bites: Lionel Blair adored Ricky Whittle’s quickstep. Lionel got a ticket to be in the audience last Saturday whereas I did not. Who does more to promote the show every year, I wonder? Vanessa Feltz – Natalie Cassidy is “a bubbly overflowing fountain of joy”. Russell Grant – loved Brian and Ali’s Viennese waltz. “I dissolved. I was like a small Alka Seltzer.” And that was that. Share It
November 16 It Takes Two Review – Monday November 16 2009A quick overview of Monday’s show: The behind-the-scenes of Saturday’s show featured the costume department’s work. Eliminated couple Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas turned up to take their final bow. Katya said she knew they were on their way out. Phil did his slightly clueless impression thing (or maybe it’s for real) by asking whether the judges base their dance-off verdict on the dance-off or on the performance earlier in the evening. Ali Bastian and Brian Fortuna were also on the show. The It Takes Two editors came up with a Fame or Fortuna thing – probably because Ali wore leg warmers. Judge Craig Revel Horwood was also on the show. Note to the other judges: we know you’re busy and out of the country and all but if you’d like to turn up occasionally to give us your comments, please do. And Tess, if you fancy putting in an appearance you’d also be welcome, just remember to tell Ronnie Corbett there’s a height exclusion, like on the rides at Alton Towers. Judge Craig said his verdict on the dance-off (he voted to save Ricky Groves and Erin Boag) was based on a mistake Phil and Katya made at the start of the routine which was not caught on camera. He added that if he were judging on past performance or potential he would have saved to Phil not Ricky. OK, that’s it. Full disclosure: blogger’s wife watched this episode of the show, I didn’t (for reasons I can’t go into right now – which will intrigue some of you. Well, OK, probably just a few of you. Well, OK, probably nobody). This blog post is therefore based entirely on blogger’s wife telling me what happened. She’s good like that, you know. Share It
November 14 Phil Tufnell Is Out Of Strictly Come Dancing 2009Former cricketer Phil Tufnell was knocked out of Strictly Come Dancing series seven after losing to Ricky Groves in the week nine dance-off. In an extraordinary show Jade Johnson did not dance on medical advice after an accident in rehearsal. Laila Rouass was also injured before the show started but was cleared to dance by the doctor and chose to do so but she could not complete her rumba routine due to being in so much pain.  Jade, it appears, will be allowed to dance next week. The judges’ scores Ricky and Natalie – 35 Ali and Brian – 35 Natalie and Vincent – 34 Phil and Katya – 31 Chris and Ola – 30 Ricky and Erin – 29 Laila and Anton – 22 The dance-off The judges voted as follows: Judge Craig: Ricky and Erin Judge Alesha: Phil and Katya Judge Bruno: Phil and Katya Head judge Len (casting vote): Ricky and Erin So out went Phil and Katya. (Our thanks to the ever brilliant Miss Bubbles for doing the live blog – you can read her comments in the previous post) The show was presented well by Tess Daly (Bruce Forsyth was unwell due to a bout of flu). She backed up admirably by Claudia Winkleman who brought a great sense of fun but what was that rather pointless appearance from Ronnie Corbett all about? What do you think of the show? Did the right couple get eliminated? Did you feel the Tess-Claudia double act worked? Are you missing Brucie? Have your say in the comments section below.
My full review of Saturday night’s performances: We have Tess’ reaction, our view, blogger’s wife’s opinion, a summary of the judges’ views and the scores. Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas – American smooth Tess: You’re opening the batting. And very dapper you look, Phil. Our view: Smooth, classy in places. He’s done well there. Blogger’s wife: Great choice of music and they danced it very well. Judge Craig: I was a little bit and only marginally disappointed because it wasn’t showy enough. It was cool but I didn’t think it was particularly confident until after the first lift when the timing was good and it became strong til the finish. Head judge Len: I wasn’t disappointed at all. I see a change of attitude. No more the cheeky charmer, you realise to get anywhere in this competition you have got to up your performance. I thought it was more determined and you did a very good job. Judge Alesha: You definitely got your swagger back Phil, you are more comfortable in the ballroom. I love the freeness of this dance I think it really suits you. The transitions in and out of the lifts were really well done considering the trouble you have had with your knee. Very smooth and very entertaining. Judge Bruno: Captain Phil you have the blissful look of someone who just joined the mile high club. Smooth take-off, smooth landing, a bit of turbulence in the middle because you lost timing but you handled it very well. 7 8 8 8 = 31 Ricky Whittle and Natalie Lowe – jive Tess: Don’t tell me you’ve sustained an injury. That was top gear that jive. Our view: Fast and furious, certainly. A lot of energy. Too complex for him to do it perfectly. Blogger’s wife: Although she’s got the body for it she looked like she was dancing in her underwear. The bets jive of the series so far, it really like felt like a jive. Head judge Len: You are consistent but you are the hunted and everyone’s after you. Austin Healey was in the same position last year. One dance and it’s not quite so good and you’re in the dance-off and you’re out. Keep focused and keep this standard fo dancing. Judge Alesha: That was a fast jive. Occasionally your timing was out but that was so fast paced you are amazing. It was light-heated, it was cheeky it was pretty amazing. Judge Bruno: Talk about a tight package full of power. You just go for it. Those kicks and flicks have to be pointed. Judge Craig: As much as I absolutely loved it, it really did lose technique because of the speed. You were behind a lot of time. The choreography was just stopping a lot of the time. 8 9 9 9 = 35 Ricky Groves and Erin Boag – Viennese waltz Tess: Everybody’s raising their game tonight. Our view: He got the character right for this one and has performed the routine better than I expected. Blogger’s wife: Hair disaster for Erin, it made her look about 50. They danced it very nicely. Judge Bruno: He made me spin in disbelief but in a good way. I’ve never seen such composure and restraint from you. You kept in time all the way through. You are still a bit tight. Judge Craig: I really felt as though I couldn’t relax for one moment only because you were very, very tense. You coped very well with all the changing steps you had to do. You do need to smooth out your rise and fall but a really great job. Head judge Len: All he needs to do to stay out of the dance-off is dance like he’s just done. Judge Alesha: I’ve seen real improvement Ricky. When you’ve been in a dance-off it knocks you. You did very well and you should be proud of yourself. 7 8 7 7 = 29 Chris Hollins and Ola Jordan – paso. Tess: Chris come on over. I was loving the paso face Our view: I don’t like the paso done to modern music. And suddenly along comes along an exception. That was great fun. Of course, you can ask yourself whether a paso should really be fun. Blogger’s wife: I was a little distracted byu the dsong and wondering if the singer would hit the high notes but I thoroughly enjoyed and want to watch it again Head judge Len: I nearly pooed me pants when he started, he frightened the life out of me. You came out and really gave it plenty. Craig or Bruno will probably bring it up - you could have been a little firm in the buttocks. I loved the attack of the dance, well done. Judge Alesha: I love you two. I felt the passion. Chris, your hand is very distracting just close it but I have to say it was intense all the way through, you performed it. Judge Bruno: That was awful but I liked it. You looked like a child having a tantrum. There was an incredible lack of artistry. Judge Craig: I feel it had danger, menace, aggression, lots and lots of stamping but you forgot to dance, it was all just placed. It lacked the dignity, honour and the authority that a matador does have. 6 8 9 7 = 30 Laila Rouass and Anton du Beke – rumba Tess: It was touch and go whether she would dance this week so well done Laila for having a go. Our view: Oh dear, what a shame. They did some nice moves but she couldn’t finish the routine. Couldn’t they have found a skin coloured bandage? Blogger’s wife: I’m disappointed in the colour of Laila’s dress. It could have been good if it had been a different colour. I liked the parts they danced. Judge Craig: Too bad you were concentrating on your injury because there may have been a glimmer of hope in the routine but obviously the pain has got to you. Just on the first part of it I’m going to be marking tonight. Head judge Len: The rule is that if you get through at least 50% of the dance then we mark it on what we’ve seen and I thought you were getting on really well. Judge Alesha: You look absolutely beautiful tonight. What you lacked in technique you certainly make up for in heart and passion. Judge Bruno: Oh, what could have been. It could have been something beautiful. I have to comment on what I saw and that was a dance you couldn’t do justice to. 3 7 6 6 = 22 Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone – foxtrot Tess: A fabulous flowing foxtrot Our view: Not sure I enjoyed that. Not sure why. Blogger’s wife: Yet another unflattering dress. Gtrea choice of music. The dance didn’t quite work for me. Judge Bruno: Very posh, very prim and very proper. You really tried to work on your body contact maybe because of that it lacked a little bit of freedom of movement. Judge Craig: It didn’t have the flow around the floor but the routine was beautifully simple, it was sweet and honest and smooth. Head judge Len: That was quality right up my street. Full of magic moments. It could have done with more movement but your best dance as far as I’m concerned. Judge Alesha: What a dream to watch. I love the song choice. The genuine friendship between you shines through. 8 9 9 8 = 34 Ali Bastian and Brian Fortuna – cha cha cha Brucie: Come one over with your cheeky cha chas. Our view: One slip up but otherwise well performed. Blogger’s wife: Finally an Ali hairstyle I like. Dress looked good too. I think she’s finally relaxed in the Latin. Really enjoyed it. Judge Alesha: Technically very, very good. It’s great to see arms being used correctly in a cha cha. Your cha cha walks were great. You’ve loosened up a lot it was a tad polite but you’ve come out of your shell more. Judge Bruno: You finish every beat in the arm as it should be. Your hip action is beautiful to look at. You are a nice girl I want a bad, bad girl. Judge Craig: It was difficult job for Brian because that music didn’t suggest to me cha cha cha. What you did with it choreographically was spectacular. You were a little early on one of those kicks. Head judge Len: You’re hips are truly hypnotic. I did like it but it was like a Darcy Bussell cha cha cha - you’ve got to be more raunchy. All too airy fairy for me but I liked it. 9 8 9 9 = 35 Share It
Live blog: Strictly Come Dancing 2009 week nine SaturdayHello all! I'm Miss Bubbles from MSN's soap blog, A Slice Of Soap. Hope you're all enjoying this live blog. I'm here until the end of the series. Strictly blogger Matt Ball will follow later with a detailed recap of tonight's show and he's also on Twitter so follow him here. This is a live blog so Press F5 to refresh your screen and keep up with all the latest happenings. Feel free to leave comments at any time throughout the show...
Show kicks off: Tess Daly's fitted dress is gorgeous! It's a creamy colour with lovely detail - I think that's my favourite so far. Here's a surprise! It's Ronnie Corbett stepping in! I'm sure he'll fill Bruces' shoes nicely... come to think of it, they'll probably be too big! But I'm not the only one doing 'short' jokes, Ronnie did too. As he comes down the stairs, he trips! Goodness, that would've been a weird way to kick things off. Instead of Tess doing the leg on Bruce, it's Ronnie straining to get his leg on Tess. Haha! "Jacket from Savile Row, trousers by Action Man," he jokes. Nice to see that Bruce's 'joke' writer is on the same form as usual. The celebs are now being introduced and we've just heard the sad news that Jade Johnson will not be dancing tonight due to an injury sustained in training earlier this week... Phil & Katya – American smooth It's time for Tuffers! He's dancing to the song Frank Sinatra made famous, Come Fly With Me. I have to say, Tuffers is looking really relaxed on the dance floor. He's looking the part and the dance flows smoothly. I personally think this is his best dance to date. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "You've definitely got your swagger back... very smooth and very entertaining." Judges' total score: 31. There was a silly segment with Ronnie Corbett on the mobile phone to Brucie who apparently wanted the lift to be: "Higher, higher!" If you watched Play Your Cards Right, you'll know what that's all about.
We're getting Latin from the Hollywoodoaks man (it's an in-joke from my blog) this week. This couple are dancing to Little Richards' Rip It Up. Wow, Natalie looks amazing - she appears to be channeling Kylie Minogue's hot pants. I'd kill for her flat stomach but it looks like one of her breast pads is showing - embarrassing. The dance itself is energetic and lively, but there are some timing issues. He won't top his magnificent quick step this week.
It's the classic by The Moody Blues, Nights In White Satin, that provides the music for the ex EastEnder. Not only is his weight loss really noticeable, he's also wearing glasses. Who is that man?!? Ricky's looking rather nimble on his toes and he's focussed. He doesn't want to be in that dance off again this week. It's a nice routine. I liked it. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "I think you should be very proud of yourself." Judges' total score: 29
Here comes the little entertainer. Chris and Ola's song choice, I Believe In A Thing Called Love by The Darkness, isn't what I'd choose for a paso doble if it was me. However, as usual, Chris is putting his heart and soul into it - love the cape bit! He's intense and attacking the dance as it it's going to be his last one. I really hope not. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "I felt the passion... you performed that brilliantly." Judges' total score: 30. Haha! Chris had the perfect response to Craig and Bruno's criticisms; he picked up his cape with a great deal of dramatic huff and flair. I can't do it justice in writing - you need to see it. Hope he stays - he's a little firecracker.
Oh dear. Laila's ankle is all strapped up; she apparently tripped on the staircase. I hope it doesn't affect her routine. They're dancing to Take That's Rule The World and although it's a lovely routine - it's a case of what could've been because the injury is clearly on her mind and getting to her. Well done for giving it a go. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "What you lacked in technique, you made up for in passion." Judges' total score: 22. Laila was in tears of pain as the judges were passing comments on her dancing. She's not going home tonight - I'll bet my house on it. If there's one thing for certain, it's that Natalie Cassidy will always put 100% effort into her routine. They dance to Magic Moments by Perry Como and the ex EastEnder is really growing in confidence. I love her dress and she's definitely lost weight, but more importantly, this is a lovely routine: refined, smooth and light as a feather. I think this will be her highest-scored dance. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "You are a dream to watch. Loved the song... I found that elegant and composed." Judges' total score: 34
Again here we go - Latin dance with music that simply doesn't fit. They're dancing to Tonight's Gonna Be A Good Night by The Black Eyed Peas. Sorry, but that's just not a great music choice. Anyway, although she's a very decent dancer, Ali lacks passion. Natalie's nowhere near as good as her, but Natalie's got heart. I think Ali needs to put a bit more fire into this dance and all her dances otherwise she'll end up in the bottom two again. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "Technically very, very, good... you've loosened up but for me it was a tad polite." Judges' total score: 35 - that's too high. I personally think the judges have scored her too highly.
Now we're seeing a VT with the public talking about their favourite celebs. It's all very diplomatic - nobody is left out. Tess speaks to the judges to find out their thoughts about what they've seen tonight and it's time for another dance from the professionals to One Night Only from the musical Dreamgirls. The phone lines are now closed. We're now being entertained by The Jersey Boys - who've come from London's West End - they're singing Beggin' by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and they're accompanied by a group of street dancers who are absolutely brilliant! Even Craig Revel Horwood is rocking to the music!!!. We're about to find out who's through to the next round of the competition. A bit of a mini-shock - it's Ricky & Tuffers in the dance off! I reckon Ricky Groves will be going home. Phil Tufnell is first to dance and he's a smooth operator as always... Rick Groves is up next. He's actually done really well but he's definitely going tonight... The Judges' Decisions Craig saves Ricky Alesha saves Phil Len saves Ricky! Oh my goodness, a shocking result! Tuffers is out! I can't believe it! I think the judges have been very up and down with their marking. I'm sure Len marked Phil higher than Ricky earlier on and Tuffers' performance was just as good. Wow! And that's a wrap! What did you think of tonight's show? Has the right person gone out? We'd love to hear from you so please have your say. That's it from me, I'm out of here. Join MSN's Strictly blogger Matt Ball for his full recap of tonight's show. I'll be back next week for another live blogging session.
Strictly Come Dancing 2009 week nine previewWeek nine of Strictly Come Dancing 2009 is nearly here. Here is what you need to know about Saturday’s programme: What’s the format for this weekend? There are eight couples left in. Each is performing a different dance. The two couples with lowest scores from a combination of judges' points and viewers’ votes will then face each other in a dance-off with the judges voting to save one of the couples. The other couple will leave the show. The BBC’s blurb adds: “The professional dancers provide the entertainment with a sizzling performance.” Which is highly informative. In a change to the usual set-up, Tess Daly will present the show and be front of house with the judges. It Takes Two’s Claudia Winkleman will be backstage with the dancers. This is because Bruce Forsyth is unwell due to a bout of flu. Who’s performing which dance?
When is the show on TV? Saturday 14 November 2009 This year you can watch in high-definition on the BBC HD channel – available subscription-free on Freesat. For more information go to: www.freesat.co.uk What coverage will this blog be providing? We will be doing live coverage on this blog – the one and only Miss Bubbles will be in the hot seat for that so join her on Saturday night as the show starts. Once the show ends I get busy writing my usual full review of the night including blogger’s wife’s all important opinions on the dresses. Do join in the discussion by using the comments section – as ever we love to read your views. Who’s going to be eliminated? Yes, it is time for my ever-reliable prediction. Last week I predicted Craig Kelly would be eliminated, which he was. I also predicted Laila Rouass would be in the dance-off, which she wasn’t; she was the last celeb to be announced as safe before Craig and Ricky Groves went into the dance-off. Close but no cigar. The William Hill website offers the following odds for the week nine elimination: Ricky Groves 6/4 This week I predict Ricky Groves will lose in the dance-off to Laila Rouass. Do you agree? Have your say now. Share It
November 13 30 best Strictly Come Dancing tweets of the week (week ending November 13 2009)Here is my selection of top Strictly tweets for this week. Good work by @laurabhere who gets three of her tweets on the list this week, plus there’s some good discussion of Claudia Winkleman appearing on Saturday’s show. You can follow me on twitter at twitter.com/thisismattball. And you can view all the tweets that I mark as favourites by using this link twitter.com/thisismattball/favorites. And here’s my Strictly Come Dancing Twitter list: http://twitter.com/thisismattball/strictly-come-dancing. NB: the list is in reverse chronological order so you might want to start at the bottom and scroll up.
Bruce Forsyth will not be presenting Strictly on SaturdayTess Daly and Claudia Winkleman to front this weekend's show. The BBC announced this morning on its Strictly Come Dancing twitter page that Bruce Forsyth will not be presenting the show on Saturday 13 November due to a bout of flu. Here are the tweets:
Let’s hope Brucie gets well soon. On Friday's It Takes Two show Claudia Winkleman annoucned she would also be involved in the show. She said: "Tess wil be front of house with the judges and I'm going to be helping out." She then read out a message from Bruce: "To Tess and Claudia, wishing you the very best for tomorrow night. Sorry I can't be there but the show could not be in better or prettier hands. You deserve one another. Lots of love, Bruce."
November 12 It Takes Two Review – Thursday 12 November 2009Here are the training hours for this week, as revealed on Thursday’s It Takes Two:
I’ll provide the full list of who’s doing which dance in tomorrow’s preview. On the show were Chris Hollins and Ola Jordan. There is still plenty of tough love going on in training. Ola said: “When I shout at him I feel sorry for him.” Chris added: “It’s usually accompanied by a tweak of the nipples.” I think we can assume he means his not hers. He’s trying to play the role of a tough matador for their paso doble but he isn’t always successful. “I’ve got cape burns on the back of my neck,” Chris commented. Ali Bastian and Brian Fortuna turned up to get all emotional about their maximum 40 for the Viennese waltz. Quite right too. “I was in shock,” said Brian. “I had to watch it back to believe it.” They did no training on Monday for this week’s cha cha cha because Brian had food poisoning. Oops. Head judge Len’s masterclass will go down as an all-time classic. He and Winkleman recreated John Sergeant and Kristina Rihanoff’s paso doble when John dragged Kristina across the floor. Winkleman proved to be something of an immovable object when she lay down but not before Len had been able to instruct her: “Take a firm grip and lower yourself.” Quality broadcasting. Share It
Tess Daly hair update – Strictly 2009 week eightHurrah! It’s time to review the hairstyle sported by The Tess Daly (she’s everyone’s favourite newspaper) on week eight of Strictly Come Dancing 2009. Saturday November 7 2009 – close to classic Tess but with slightly more right eye coverage than expected.
OK, that concludes this week’s Tess Daly hair update. Share It
November 11 It Takes Two Review – Wednesday 11 November 2009Doesn’t time fly when you’re having fun? Was that really 30 minutes? Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone were first on. There was an amusing montage of Vincent’s occasional challenges with English. But the mockers were really on the It Takes Two caption writer who produced this particular gaffe during the sequence: Pronunciation. Next was a nice piece about a couple who met at a dance during the war – a good item to put in on November 11. Then Su Judd, Strictly’s costume designer, talked about tango outfits, reviewing those sported by Kelly Brook, Zoe Ball and Lisa Snowdon. Zoe’s dress was the best of the lot, as was her tango with Ian Waite. Nicola Atkinson and Hilary Alexander previewed this week’s line-up of dresses. Of note were the following:
Last on were Jade Johnson and Ian Waite. They were surprised to have avoided the dance-off on Saturday because they were fourth on the leader board and they had previously ended up in the dance-off with their samba when they had been third. "I’m going to come out of the closet and say we want to be in the final," said Ian, prompted by Vincent’s earlier comment that he wanted to reach the final with Natalie. Jade and Ian are doing the tango this week. Jade says she is "loving it." Which bodes well. Share It
November 10 It Takes Two Review – Tuesday November 10First on were Ricky Groves and Erin Boag, the couple who survived Saturday’s dance-off. Erin argued the lift in their routine in Saturday wasn’t a lift. Karen Hardy in choreography corner agued the opposite. She said the definition of the lift was: using assistance from your partner and having both feet off the floor. “Could she have done that without Ricky’s assistance?” she asked rhetorically. She applied the same argument to the two lifts in Laila and Anton’s paso doble. Ricky and Erin are doing the Viennese waltz this week whereas Laila and Anton (who were also on the show) are doing the rumba. Laila looks to be in danger of slipping into another phase of Latin negativity. She said she felt the rumba was going to be like her jive (ie disastrous). Also on the show were friends and family of some of the celebs: Natalie’s friend Amy, Ricky’s mum Irene and Laila’s friend Nihal. Ricky’s mum was the most revelatory. She said Ricky’s dad could not watch the dance-off and went to make a cup of tea. She added that Ricky’s gran has become a celebrity in her own Norfolk village as a result of Ricky’s being on the show. Marvellous. Share It
It Takes Two Review – Monday November 9A simple enough start to the week. There was: 1. A big report from behind-the-scenes at Blackpool presented by the ever versatile James Jordan. 2. Eliminated couple Craig Kelly and Flavia Cacace. Craig was still convinced he performed than the judges thought he did. Flavia spoke of her relief at not having to take any more abuse from the judges. 3. Judge Craig Revel Horwood saying he was finding more good in the performances than judge Bruno. 4. Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas. They’re doing the American smooth this week. Phil’s knee problem will make the lifts challenging. Share It
November 07 Craig Kelly Is Out Of Strictly Come Dancing 2009 Actor Craig Kelly is the eighth celebrity to be voted off Strictly Come Dancing series seven.In week eight of the competition, the remaining celebrity contestants and their professional dance partners took to the floor to perform a variety of dances. Actress Ali Bastian scored a perfect 40 for her Viennese waltz whereas Craig's cha cha cha performance didn't impress the judges; he scored only 17 points and ended up at the bottom of the leader board. The combination of the judges' scores and viewers’ votes left Craig and professional partner Flavia Cacace in the bottom two and facing the dance off against ex-EastEnder Ricky Groves and his dance partner Erin Boag. Have your say on the show's performances in the comments section at the end of this blog post. The judges’ scores Ali and Brian – 40 Ricky and Natalie – 35 Chris and Ola – 34 Jade and Ian – 33 Natalie and Vincent – 31 Laila and Anton – 30 Phil and Katya – 28 Ricky and Erin – 25 Craig and Flavia – 17 The dance-off The judges voted as follows: Judge Craig: Ricky and Erin Judge Alesha: Ricky and Erin Judge Bruno: Ricky Erin So out went Craig and Flavia Head judge Len’s vote was not needed but he said he would have voted for Ricky and Erin. (Our thanks to the ever brilliant Miss Bubbles for doing the live blog – you can read her comments in the previous post) My full review of Saturday night’s performances: As usual we have Brucie’s reaction, our view, blogger’s wife’s opinion, the judges’ views and the scores. Ricky Whittle and Natalie Lowe – tango Brucie: What about it? What about it? What a start to the night. Our view: A couple of slips but otherwise well danced. I don’t think the music worked for this routine. Blogger’s wife: Really beautiful dress. Didn’t particularly like the choice of music but the staccatos seemed to suit the tango. I felt they went wrong a couple of times but when they went right they were amazing. Head judge Len: You are the most consistent of all our couples. Whatever comes your way you give a full dance performance. I’m not going to talk about you know what because somebody else will. You attacked it full bore, no messing about, with so much passion, I absolutely loved it. Judge Alesha: An amazing opening to the show. You remained very strong and in character. This is a real partnership. Judge Bruno: Strong, dramatic, powerful, a sprinkle of arrogance, an underlying sexual tension that gives you the chills. You can tango. Judge Craig: I can see the disappointment in your eyes, you knew you blew it entirely but it did have a lot of control. I felt you were leading the dance which is splendid. 8 9 9 9 = 35 Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone – quickstep Brucie: What about it? How about it? It’s a big floor, isn’t it? Our view: I enjoyed the first half and found myself holding my breath hoping they wouldn’t mess up. I didn’t like the second part quite so much. Blogger’s wife: Possibly Natalie’s best dress to date because it covered her arms and shoulders but still not very flattering. Dance was quick and well danced but didn’t feel clean enough to me. Judge Craig: I would have liked to have seen you a little bit lighter at the beginning I felt you were holding on for dear life. You’ve got to get your feet together in that Charleston section which is not great. We cannot take your exuberance and energy away, that was amazing. Head judge Len: I am smiling because it was a smiley sort of dance. It had enough energy to keep the illuminations on for two full weeks. You lost your posture a bit. Lovely start, lovely end and a silly bit in the middle. Judge Alesha: This dance suited you Natalie. A lot of interesting content and you coped very well. You deserve to be here and you are still a contender. Judge Bruno: Natalie, this quickstep was like a ride on the big dipper. Plenty of highs and a few lows. Great fun overall. 7 8 8 8 = 31 Jade Johnson and Ian Waite – jive Brucie: What about it? What a cheeky dance. Our view: They did well. Is it OK if I say it didn't wow me? Blogger’s wife: A Jade dress disaster. At times she and Ian were mirroring each other nicely. I don’t think the music suited the jive so I didn’t enjoy it. Judge Craig: I am surprised. That is the girliest we have seen you dance. I was expecting it to be a bit more tankish but it was really wonderful to watch. Lots of lovely kicks and side-by-side stuff. You need to point your feet but wonderful, wonderful stuff. Head judge Len: I thoroughly enjoyed it and for a tall person you really captured the essence of the dance. Judge Alesha: Your legs are amazing, Jade. That was a really cool jive. It was cute, quirky. We can see how fit you are because it didn’t seem like you were out of breath at all. I think you have been Miss Consistency and you’ve been under the radar. You’re the dark house of the competition. Judge Bruno: You’re so statuesque yet you move like a whippet. Your timing was good. For once I agree with Craig, you’ve got to point your foot on these flicks and kicks. 8 8 9 8 = 33 Ali Bastian and Brian Fortuna – Viennese waltz Brucie: Lovely performance. Our view: Exquisite. Blogger’s wife: Beautiful dress, beautiful song, beautiful dance. Head judge Len: Last week I thought Ricky’s was the dance of this series, I’ve now changed my mind, that was. Judge Alesha: I felt the emotional connection between you tonight. For me that was very romantic, it was beautifully danced, Ali. There’s nothing else I would want from a Viennese waltz. Judge Bruno: A magic venue, an enchanting dance. Dance has the power to lift our hearts and to really make us dream; you did that tonight. Judge Craig: Very disappointed, I could not find a single thing wrong with it. 10 10 10 10 = 40 Ricky Groves and Erin Boag – salsa Brucie: That was better than the dress rehearsal. Our view: He can do some steps so why doesn’t he work on improving those rather than mess about with all this egging on the audience nonsense? Blogger’s wife: Rather unrefined but I quite enjoyed it. Judge Alesha: Crowd pleaser: yes. Salsa boy: no. Judge Bruno: From the sublime to the ridiculous. That was entertaining but it was all over the place, it’s so easy. Judge Craig: Your hands bother me somewhat, they become poodle paws. I didn’t mind the routine and I did love your verve. Head judge Len: You give it your all. You’re a bit of a rough diamond and you need to polish it up a bit. 6 7 6 6 = 25 Laila Rouass and Anton du Beke – paso doble Brucie: Lovely. The actress came out there. Our view: Clever Anton: he chooses some modern music (well I know the song is decades old but I mean it’s not traditional paso music) and choreographs a Latin routine that he can do as well as she can. I still didn’t enjoy it, though. Blogger’s wife: It had the look of a paso but somehow it missed the feel. Maybe it was the music. Judge Bruno: Truly the Spanish beauty. You have to keep the drive all the way through. Judge Craig: Confident but lacked any real connection between you. I was slightly surprised at the lift. Head judge Len: It would have been your best dance but I have got to knock a point off for the lift. Judge Alesha: You were mesmerising. A very confident attempt. I enjoyed it. 7 7 8 8 = 30 Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas - rumba Brucie: What about it? Very balletic. Our view: I didn’t enjoy that. A lot of posturing and repetition. No romance. Blogger’s wife: Katya didn’t give Phil enough dancing, bit lacking in content. Head judge Len: Lovely lines throughout. I don’t know about the romance, more like having a snog in the back of a banger. Judge Alesha: Nice pivots, nice soft approach to the dance. Judge Bruno: Simple, effective but for a sex God it lacked a bit of the hip action. Judge Craig: You found one step you could do well and you just repeated it and repeated it and repeated it. Not your dance. 6 8 7 7 = 28 Brucie: You’re my favourites Chris Hollins and Ola Jordan - foxtrot Brucie: Listen to it. Just wonderful. How about that? They loved it. Our view: He closed those splayed fingers on the back early on and after that it was very good. Blogger’s wife: Ola’s dress was absolutely beautiful. Fantastic dance, a few dodgy moments with banana hands and Chris singing along. Judge Alesha: Such a cute couple. You danced that so well Chris. Growing in confidene you upped your game. Judge Bruno: Your smoothest dance to date. Judge Craig: Keep a long neck and that dance you will own [has Yoda suddenly taken over Craig's speech?]. Head judge Len: You create your own standards on this show. That was your best dance, that is what I am expecting from now on. 8 9 9 8 = 34 Craig Kelly and Flavia Cacace – cha cha cha Brucie: You got a standing ovation from one person. It was his dad. Our view: Terrible. Blogger’s wife: It’s time for people not to vote for Craig. Head judge Len: We’ve seen all the couples and in fairness to them yours is the weakest performance. Judge Alesha: I can’t believe Zoe’s gone and I had to endure that. You’re not as good as you think you are. Judge Bruno: At the start when you stood still I could admire Flavia. It just was not good enough. Judge Craig: You’ve got to hope people at home are voting for you. It reminded me of a Thunderbird. Brucie: You’re my second favourites. 3 5 4 5 = 17 Your views What did you think of tonight's show? Has the right person gone out? We'd love to hear from you so please have your say. Share It
Live blog: Strictly Come Dancing 2009 week eight SaturdayHello all! I'm Miss Bubbles from MSN's soap blog, A Slice Of Soap. Hope you're all enjoying this live blog. I'm here until the end of the series. Strictly blogger Matt Ball will follow later with a detailed recap of tonight's show and he's also on Twitter so follow him here. This is a live blog so Press F5 to refresh your screen and keep up with all the latest happenings. Feel free to leave comments at any time throughout the show... The show's coming from Blackpool and the celebs are all performing different dances. However, somebody's dancing their last dance tonight. Question is who? We'll find out soon...
We're live from Blackpool! Here comes Bruce and Tess and I love her dress. it's two shades of pink and it fits her like a glove. Rod Stewart and wife Penny Lancaster are in the audience as is Mark Foster and Rav Wilding. It's a convention of ex Strictly dancers! Bruce makes a bad joke about the plush surroundings and MPs second homes. Sack his scriptwriter please! Time to meet the celebrities and Natalie Cassidy is in yet another unflattering dress. Ricky & Natalie – tango First couple out is Ricky?! Thought they'd save the best until last. Anyway, they're dancing to You Really Got Me by The Kinks and Ricky's doing his very best to be the very best. I don't think it's a good song choice, I'm not feeling this tango as much as I felt his quickstep last week and... Trip! Mistake! Oh dear. He'll be marked down for that. Not Ricky's best dance. Judges' total score: 35
Natalie & Vincent – quickstep They're dancing to Tu Vuo' Fa L'Americano by Fiorello (the internet is a wonderful thing). I don't like Natalie's dress but I do like her attitude. She always gives it 100% and although this quickstep is nowhere near as good as Ricky Whittle's was last week, it's still nice to watch. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "I think the dance really suited you... you deserve to be here; you're still a contender." Judges' total score: 31
She's tall - can tall girls jive? Well, as the music starts (Flip Flop & Fly which was in The Blues Brothers movie but I think it was Little Richards song originally), it's clear that this girl can move. She's got rhythm and she's got movement. Love Jade's green dress - she looks very athletic (well, she would do but you know what I mean) and her dancing was so energetic... I loved it! Judges' comments: Alesha said: "Your legs are amazing, I'm not being funny! You're the dark horse of the competition." Judges' total score: 33
Ali & Brian – Viennese waltz Are you in the mood for Do Right Woman, Do Right Man by Aretha Franklin? Well this is what Ali and Brian are dancing to. It's like they're floating on air - veryt graceful... I think this is Ali's best dance yet. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "I felt the emotional connection between the two of you... there's nothing more that I'd want from a Viennese waltz." Judges' total score: 40 - wow top marks! Sorry, but I think she's been scored too highly. I think that was a 36 at most.
Time to go Latin as the ex EastEnders dances to Salsa Acuyuye by D.L.G. As usual, Ricky is giving it his all, but he needs to shut his mouth... he looks as though he's trying to catch flies. I don't like his gyrating either - it's a bit jerky and not very smooth. As usual the crowd is lapping it up but it's not Ricky's best effort. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "Crowd pleaser, yes. Salsa boy, no." Judges' total score: 25
I'm not convinced by Anton's Latin routines but as they step out to Eric Clapton's Layla, this is one of the better ones. However, I think that Laila needs to be a bit more agressive with her approach to this dance. Not bad but I've seen better pasos. Judges' comments: Alesha said: "I thought you was [sic] mesmerising... a very confident attempt, I enjoyed that." Judges' total score: 30
Who doesn't like Paul McCartney? Tuffers dances to his classic song Maybe I'm Amazed. He looks like he's having a real good time out there and, as always, he cracks me up. I must admit, the routine is lacking a bit of content - it's kind of repetitive but still, I'm buying whatever he's selling. Judges' total score: 28
My Fair Lady is one of my favourite films! The music is I Could've Danced All Night and Chis looks really composed. He's dancing very well (he's still mouthing the words a bit. The judges won't like that) - the audience seem to be loving him. I think this is his best dance yet... could we be seeing some more 10s? Judges' comments: Alesha said: "Such a cute couple, I have to say..., you danced that so well... you upped your game!" Judges' total score: 34 Ricky and Natalie – tango
Brace yourself everyone - it's Craig time. They're dancing to Phil Collins and Phil Bailey's Easy Lover and although Flavia looks hot, Craig looks clumsy. I bet his mum's cringing with embarassment because I know I am. He simply has no rhythm - he just cannot dance. Judges' comments: Alesha said: " I can't believe Zoe's gone and I had to endure that. You're not as good as you think you are... looks like dad's back." Judges' total score: 17 My favourite celeb tonight: Jade Johnson, she was great. Now it's time to catch-up on how the celebrities did so the tape is rolling. Tess talks to some of the gang and has a few kind words for Craig Kelly. Bruce talks about the size of the ballroom floor being twice the size of the one in London. The professional dancers show it off to great effect by performing a lovely Viennese waltz. Tess now introduces a second group dance which is performed by all the celebrity dancers still in the competition. It's time to swing! But my goodness, Craig Kelly has lost his step - the poor man. It really is time to go. Special guest this week is Rod Stewart - a big soul fan, he sings Same Old Song by The Temptations as his wife Penny Lancaster dances along to it. He sounds pretty good (unlike last week's disaster with The Bee Gees). Penny Lancaster definitely upstaged her husband. The celebs are now pleading for our votes. We're about to find out who's through to the next round of the competition. The Dance Off As we come down to the final three couples - it's Laila, Craig and Ricky Groves and... That's it, Craig's gone! Craig and Ricky are in the dance off! Craig is a goner for sure. Ricky dances first and he doesn't do too badly Craig dances next and it's just as awful as the first time.
Craig saves Ricky Alesha saves Ricy Craig's out! It's academic but Len would've saved Ricky too. Well, no surprises there. We all knew that Craig would go the minute he landed in the dance off. And that's a wrap! What did you think of tonight's show? Has the right person gone out? We'd love to hear from you so please have your say. That's it from me, I'm out of here. Join MSN's Strictly blogger Matt Ball for his full recap of tonight's show. I'll be back next week for another live blogging session.
November 06 Strictly Come Dancing 2009 week eight previewIt’s week eight of Strictly Come Dancing 2009 . Here is what you need to know about Saturday’s programme: What’s the format for this weekend? There are nine couples left in. Each is performing a different dance. The two couples with lowest scores from a combination of judges' points and viewers’ votes will then face each other in a dance-off with the judges voting to save one of the couples. The other couple will leave the show. The BBC’s blurb adds: the professional dancers treat us to a stunning Viennese waltz, and music is provided by the legendary Rod Stewart. It should also mention that Rod’s wife Penny will dance with Matthew Cutler. Who’s performing which dance?
When is the show on TV? Saturday night This year you can watch in high-definition on the BBC HD channel – available subscription-free on Freesat. For more information go to: www.freesat.co.uk What coverage will this blog be providing? We will be doing live coverage on this blog – superblogger herself Miss Bubbles will be in the hot seat for that so join her on Saturday night as the show starts. Once the show ends I get busy writing my usual full review of the night including blogger’s wife’s all important opinions on the dresses. Do join in the discussion by using the comments section – as ever we love to read your views. Who’s going to be eliminated? Yes, it is time for my ever-reliable prediction. Last week I predicted Natalie Cassidy will lose to Ricky Groves in the dance-off. Wrong! Of course, if I had predicted Zoe vs Ali in the dance-off, I’d have been laughed off the internet before the show had started; it’s just so unpredictable this year. The William Hill website offers the following odds for the week eight elimination: Craig Kelly 5/6 Last week I said Craig Kelly would make it to Blackpool and then the voting public would drop him like a stone. I stand by that. There’s no point voting for him now he’s achieved his aim, although I wasn’t sure what the point of keeping him in for the past few weeks was anyway, poor soul. So this week, I predict Craig Kelly will lose in the dance-off. But to whom? Pick a name, any name. They’ll all thrash Craig anyway and I can’t see the judges wanting to save him. Let’s say…Laila Rouass. 30 best Strictly Come Dancing tweets of the week (week ending November 6 2009)Here is my selection of top Strictly tweets for this week. Great work by @Chickytweeta, in addition to all the Blackpool fun and games. You can follow me on twitter at twitter.com/thisismattball. And you can view all the tweets that I mark as favourites by using this link twitter.com/thisismattball/favorites. And here’s my Strictly Come Dancing Twitter list: http://twitter.com/thisismattball/strictly-come-dancing. NB: the most recent tweets in the list below are at the top so you might want to start at the bottom and scroll up.
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