Strictly tonight (Saturday, October 19) saw Dr Punam and Gorka Marquez perform a Viennese waltz together.
However, with their placing in tonight’s show, as well as their scoring, many a fan is fearing for their place in the competition…
Dr Punam and Gorka went second tonight (Credit: BBC)
Strictly tonight: Dr Punam performs a Viennese waltz
Tonight’s edition of Strictly saw Dr Punam and Gorka perform second.
They danced to a Viennese waltz to the tune of Billy Joel’s She’s Always a Woman.
In the VT, Dr Punam welcomed her son into the rehearsal studio, where he got to watch her practice alongside Gorka.
Their performance drew a great reaction from the crowd, who were on their feet applauding.
“You are exquisite,” Tess exclaimed as the couple joined her to talk to the judges.
Dr Punam seemed happy with how the dance went, describing it as “beautiful”.
Craig said the performance lacked energy (Credit: BBC)
Judges score Dr Punam and Gorka
Whilst Motsi was largely complimentary, she did call for “more energy” from Dr Punam.
Shirley Ballas gave similar comments, urging Dr Punam for more energy too.
Anton was of the opinion that Dr Punam keeps her dancing “to herself”. “You’ve got to share [it with the audience],” he said. He then went on to criticise her technique, saying she dances as if she’s “hesitant”.
“I just felt like it was a little too social, as though you were just going for a stroll in the park,” Craig then said. “It lacked musicality, it lacked energy in the body.”
When it came to scoring, Craig gave Dr Punam and Gorka a four. Motsi gave them a six, Shirley gave a five, and Anton gave a six. This gave the couple a score of 21, leaving them second from bottom on the night, only ahead of Paul Merson and Karen Hauer.
Fans are worried for the couple (Credit: BBC)
Strictly tonight: Fans worried for Dr Punam
Fans of the show were not happy with Dr Punam’s treatment tonight. Many were unhappy with the fact that she perfomed second, in the so-called “death slot”. Others were convinced that the judges’ scoring was “harsh” and could lead to her performing in the dance-off tomorrow (Sunday, October 20).
“No ngl I don’t like where is going with Punam like what do you mean 4 ??? her dance was literally underscored,” one fan complained.
“I don’t understand why Punam got such low scores tbh, it was a good dance,” another tweeted.
“Gorka and Punam aren’t even standing beside each other, I fear they’re going this week,” a third fan wrote.
“The score for Punam was so harsh omg they want her OUT,’ another said.
“Punam in the death slot again? oh they want her gone so bad,” a fifth worried fan tweeted.
“Punam in the death slot… they want her gone,” another theorised.
On Strictly tonight (Saturday, October 5) the celebs dressed as iconic film characters as they performed in movie week.
And one performance in particular drew widespread praise, with many branding it “stunning”
Dr Punam danced to a Bollywood song tonight (Credit: BBC)
Strictly tonight: Dr Punam Krishan and Gorka Marquez’s Bollywood routine
Tonight’s edition of Strictly saw Dr. Punam and Gorka perform the first couple’s choice of the series.
The duo danced to the song Bole Chudiyan from the Bollywood movie, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham….
During the VT before the performance, Dr. Punam spoke about how much dancing to the song meant to her.
Speaking about her youth, she said: “I never saw Indian girls dancing on mainstream television.
“So to be doing now, an Indian dance, on a platform like Strictly, it’s huge,” she then added.
Dr Punam and Gorka were praised by the judges (Credit: BBC)
Judges and Dr Punam emotional on Strictly tonight
After their performance, both Dr Punam and the judges were emotional.
Fighting back tears, Punam listened as Motsi Mabuse choked back tears to compliment the routine.
“I promised myself this year that I’m not going to cry,” she said. “But that really moved me.
“I know so many people are watching you right now and are so proud to see this on Strictly Come Dancing. I know that for a fact!” she then added.
In the Claudatiorium later, Dr Punam emotionally dedicated the dance to her late grandfather, but also to her mum, who was “worried that her girls would grow up not connected to their culture”.
The routine was described as “beautiful” (Credit: BBC)
Viewers in tears
It’s safe to say that fans of the show were in bits after watching Dr Punam’s routine.
“‘Punam princess from the Punjab!’ I was in floods of tears I felt so proud of you & my heart felt warm with the love & passion you brought to the dance floor! LUV U,” one fan tweeted.
“I’m in tears. Punam and Gorka’s Bollywood-inspired dance was wonderful. It was fabulous,” another gushed.
“Happy tears…amazing…Bollywood!!” a third wrote.
“I am in floods of tears that was beautiful,” another said.
Strictly 2024 is back for its 20th year and already the nation’s favourite dance show has gone out with a bang.
Tonight’s episode (September 14) revealed who the 15 celebrities are paired with and what dances they will take on next week. However, a couple of fan-favourite professional dancers have not been teamed with a celebrity partner.
Despite making it to Blackpool with Angela Rippon last year, Kai Waddington has not been assigned a celebrity. Sadly, the same goes for Lauren Oakley and Carlos Gu.
That said, Lauren still admitted it feels “really special“ to be a part of Strictly’s 20th anniversary. “I’ve watched the show growing up. I watched the first episode, so I can’t believe I’m now part of it, especially in such a monumental year. It’s the best show on telly, so I’m not surprised it’s lasted 20 years, and I just feel really lucky to be part of it. It’s amazing,“ she said.
Dianne Buswell will be teaching Chris McCausland to dance (Credit: BBC)
Strictly 2024: Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell
Comedian Chris McCausland has been paired with Australian dancer Dianne Buswell, who made it to last year’s finals with EastEnders star Bobby Brazier.
For their first dance, Chris and Dianne will perform the Cha Cha to The Beatles’ iconic Twist and Shout.
Joking to hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman about their partnership, Chris quipped: “She is absolutely over the moon having me because she [Dianne] really wants November off. You’ve got a holiday booked, haven’t you?!”
Jamie Borthwick is Michelle Tsiakkas’ first-ever celebrity partner (Credit: BBC)
Jamie Borthwick and Michelle Tsiakkas
After winning last year’s Christmas special, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick signed himself up for the 2024 series. He has been paired with Michelle Tsiakkas.
After joining the Strictly family in 2022, this is the first time Michelle has been assigned a partner. “It’s a dream come true to finally be able to dance on that Strictly dance floor with a partner and what better partner than Jamie to dance with. I’m so happy!” she said.
During week one, the pair will perform a Viennese Waltz to Benson Boone’s recent chart-topper, Beautiful Things.
Asked about his time on the Strictly Christmas Special last year, Jamie said: “That’s what swung me hook, line and sinker. I don’t quite know how I managed to win that, but this is a whole different ball game! I don’t think I can blag it for a whole 13 weeks.”
Amy Dowden is back for 2024 and she’s partnered with JB Gill (Credit: BBC)
JB Gill and Amy Dowden
Like Jamie, JLS star JB Gill also competed on a Christmas special and took home the glitterball trophy. Clearly, the Beat Again hitmaker wants the full experience and has been assigned Amy Dowden as his partner.
The Welsh dancer returns to the show after having to step back last year due to her cancer diagnosis. “I’m delighted, it just feels like my first year all over again. I just want JBto have the best time and fall in love with dancing,” Amy said.
Their first dance will be a Waltz to Leo Sayer’s When I Need You.
Johannes Radebe is partnered with Gladiators star Montell Douglas (Credit: BBC)
For their first dance, Montell and Johannes will perform a Foxtrot to Dinah Washington’s Is You Is or Is You Ain’t My Baby.
“It feels like a full circle moment, not just for me, but for everybody that’s ever been involved since its inception, from 2004 until now. I think everybody should just be proud that it’s still going. It’s just amazing,” he said about the upcoming series.
Asked if she felt pleased to be partnered with Johannes, Montell said: “How can you not be, I don’t think there is a person on this earth who doesn’t want to be partnered with JoJo, I’m over the moon!”
They then joked that their team name would be MoJo!
Luba Mushtuk has been tasked with teaching Nick Knowles to dance (Credit: BBC)
Nick Knowles and Luba Mushtuk
After gracing our screens for several decades, DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles is giving Strictly a go. To help teach him his moves, he has been paired with Luba Mushtuk.
Asked if he thought theirs was a good match by the hosts, TV favourite Nick said: “Yes, absolutely. I wanted someone who’d be patient. She’s a world-class dancer, so how can it possibly go wrong? Although, it’s a bit like taking an F1 world champion and putting them in a beaten-up old builder’s van to race…. We’ll see how it goes. I have had a bit of body work done, though – a spray paint, literally!”
Their first dancing during week one will be a Jive to Starship’s We Built This City.
Strictly’s longest-serving pro Karen Hauer is partnered with Paul Merson (Credit: BBC)
Strictly 2024: Paul Merson and Karen Hauer
Former footballer Paul Merson will be taught how to dance by Karen Hauer. “I just want him to enjoy himself,” said Karen. “I want everyone to enjoy themselves because this is one of the greatest experiences – we’re going to have the most fun!”
Keeping with the theme of footie, Paul and Karen will perform an American Smooth to Fat Les’ anthem Vindaloo.
Jowita Przystal and partner Pete Wicks have already sparked romance rumours (Credit: BBC)
Pete Wicks and Jowita Przystal
After not having much luck with Olympian Jody Cundy last year, maybe Jowita Przystal will return to the top of the leaderboard with her 2024 partner Pete Wicks. They’ve already sparked romance rumours!
Asked if he was pleased to be partnered with Jowita by Claudia, Pete said: “100%. The little pocket rocket? I’ve got this in the bag now, I’ve changed my mind – I’m going to win it.”
However, after being told their first performance will be a Paso Doble to The Prodigy’s Breathe, Pete looked confused and said: “What’s a Paso Doble?”
Gorka Marquez returns for 2024 and is partnered with Dr Punan Krishnan (Credit: BBC)
Dr Punam Krishnan and Gorka Marquez
Strictly favourite Gorka Marquez is teamed up with TV doctor Punam Krishnan.
As he returns to the show once again, Gorka revealed it’s a “privilege” to be a part of the 20th anniversary.
“It’s the dreams of any professional dancer to be on the biggest TV show on telly but also to be celebrating 20 years doesn’t happen very often. It’s incredible to be celebrating a show that has been running successfully for 20 years with so many memorable moments. To be part of something that has touched so many lives is incredible. I’m very excited to celebrate it,” he said.
Dr Punam said: “I’m absolutely buzzing. I think we are the perfect pairing. I feel honoured, because you’ve got so many years of experience.”
Their first performance will be a Cha Cha to pop princess Kylie Minogue’s Love At First Sight.
Tasha Ghouri is partnered with returning pro Aljaz Skorjanec (Credit: BBC)
Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec
Model, author and dancer Tasha Ghouri might have previous experience, but she’s about to learn a whole lot more now that she’s partnered with returning pro Aljaž Škorjanec.
The pair will show off their moves to Sabrina Carpenter’s Espresso in the style of a Cha Cha.
Speaking about her pro partner, Tasha quipped: “I am absolutely ecstatic! He’s so fun – chaos, but I love a bit of chaos energy. Honestly, we mesh so well, and I’m so excited. He’s already teaching me little moves, and I’m trying to keep up, but I’ve got a very good one here.”
Olympian Tom Dean has been paired with Nadiya Bychkova (Credit: BBC)
“I’m super happy, he’s not just a swimmer..he’s a winner!” Nadiya quipped of the gold medal-winning swimmer.
For their first dance, they will perform a Tango to Harry Styles’ Golden.
Neil Jones has a celebrity partner this year in Toyah Willcox (Credit: BBC)
Toyah Willcox and Neil Jones
1980s icon Toyah Willcox has been paired with Neil Jones. It will be Neil’s first celebrity pairing since 2021.
“I’ve been around the show for about 10 years so it’s incredible to be a part of this for that long,” he said about his time on the show. Toyah said of her partner: “I met Neil and I was in heaven. All of you are beautiful boys but not as beautiful as Neil!”
Toyah and Neil will also perform a Tango to Madonna’s Ray of Light.
Sam Quek will be dancing with Nikita Kuzmin (Credit: BBC)
The Ukrainian-Italian professional just missed out on the glitterball trophy with actor Layton Williams last year. So could 2024 be his year?
Sam and Nikita’s first dance will be a Foxtrot to Where Did Our Love Go by The Supremes.
Olympian Sam told Tess: “I’m so nervous. I’ve never felt nerves like it. It’s the unknown. Look at me, this isn’t me. I didn’t recognise myself in the mirror!”
Sarah Hadland has been paired with reigning champ Vito Coppola (Credit: BBC)
Strictly 2024: Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola
After winning the show with former Corrie star Ellie Leach last year, Vito Coppola has been paired with another actor, Sarah Hadland.
Asked if he thinks he’ll lift the glitter ball again this year, Vito said: “Honestly you know I love to enjoy and live in the moment and the present. Sarah and me have the same energy. I see Sarah as sparkling water, bubbly. We are going to live this journey as a bubble!”
For their first dance, Sarah and Vito will perform a Quickstep to Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5.
Shayne Ward is with Nancy Xu for Strictly 2024 (Credit: BBC)
Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu
After finishing last in 2023, hopefully, Nancy Xu will have more luck with former X Factor winner and actor Shayne Ward.
“I think Nancy is a phenomenal dancer and I feel so blessed that she’s with me on this journey,” said Shayne.
Katya Jones will be dancing with Wynne Jones this time around (Credit: BBC)
Strictly 2024: Wynne Evans and Katya Jones
Welsh opera singer Wynne Evans has been paired with Katya Jones.
“I didn’t have a clue who I was going to get,” Wynne said.”Obviously, I’m older so I didn’t know who would take me on as it were, then we went to the venue and in walks the cockney Russian!”
Claudia asked Katya what her plans for Wynne were, she said: “I think no plan is brilliant. This man was born to win!”
For the first dance next weekend, they perform a Samba to Tom Jones’ Help Yourself.
Strictly 2024 is just around the corner with the line-up fully announced and a start date rumoured.
The likes of Nick Knowles, Paul Merson and Sam Quek are among those taking part this year. Meanwhile, actor Shayne Ward, actress Sarah Hadland and Gladiator Montell Douglas were confirmed as contestants recently.
Strictly will reportedly begin in September (Credit: BBC)
Strictly 2024 start date
But when does Strictly begin? According to reports, the launch show could begin on September 14 while the first live show begins on September 21.
Fans of Strictly are already able to apply for tickets, reports claim. It’s reported that they can buy tickets for show dates at Elstree Studios including September 21 and 28 and other dates in October, November and December.
ED! has contacted the BBC for comment.
With a rumoured start date, who’s taking part in the series?
Read the full line-up below…
Comedian and actor Chris McCausland announced as first Strictly 2024 contestant (Credit: BBC)
Strictly 2024 contestants: Chris McCausland
After much speculation on who has signed up this year, This Morning hosts Josie Gibson and Craig Doyle revealed on August 5 that actor and comedian Chris would the first celeb hitting the dancefloor next month.
He joked that his reveal was the “worst kept secret in British TV”.
The 47-year-old is most known for his role as Rudi in the CBeebies show Me Too! and regularly tours the UK with his comedy career. He also currently hosts his own Saturday morning ITV chat show, The Chris McCausland Show.
Chris is blind due to a genetic disorder of the eyes called retinitis pigmentosa.
“If anybody out there is thinking – how the hell is he going to do that? – then rest assured that I am thinking exactly the same thing. I don’t dance, I haven’t danced, I can’t dance, I can’t see the dancing I will have to do. What can possibly go wrong? Okay don’t answer that…!” he shared in a statement.
JLS star JB is the second contestant announced (Credit: BBC)
JB Gill
After competing and winning the Strictly Christmas special in 2012, JLS star JB Gill has signed up to become one of the contestants for Strictly 2024.
The music chart-topper also presents Songs of Praise.
“I danced in the Strictly Christmas special over a decade ago and LOVED it, so when I got the call to join Strictly this year, it was an immediate yes from me,” the Beat Again hitmaker shared in a statement.
“I’m raring to go to and looking forward to showing off some new skills to the JLS boys. From muddy wellies on the fields of my farm to sequins and Glitterballs – I’m here to embrace it all!”
Former X Factor star JB being announced as the second contestant for Strictly 2024 has gone a treat with fans.
“WOW! That one caught me off guard. The 2nd member of JLS to take part in the show following Aston Merrygold in 2017. He’ll do really well!” one user wrote.
Wynne will get his dancing shoes on! (Credit: BBC)
Strictly line-up: Wynne Evans
The third star taking part in Strictly 2024 is Wynne Evans. The star is best known for his operatic skills and his appearance in the Go.compare insurance adverts.
He said: “I am honestly still pinching myself, a portly balding opera singer, me, taking part in Strictly Come Dancing?! I’m not entirely sure how I’ll get along, if all else fails I’ll just have to learn the art of distraction. What I do know is I will give it my all and aim to make Wales proud. I’m definitely going to try and combine my love of Opera into one of my routines. Plus, after winning Celebrity MasterChef last year, maybe the route to the judges’ hearts will be through their stomachs!”
Toyah will take part in Strictly 2024 (Credit: BBC)
Toyah Willcox
Singer and actress Toyah Willcox will get her dancing shoes on. She has been performing across stage and screen for over 50 years.
In a statement Toyah said: “Wow Strictly Come Dancing, can you believe it! This is going to be a wild and wonderful ride, and I’m here for every sparkly second. I’m used to performing for big crowds but this is completely fresh for me, how I will do, it’s a mystery… I just want to get cracking and learn some dance routines now!”
Dr Punam Krishan will join the BBC show: ‘This is so out of my comfort zone’ (Credit: BBC)
Dr Punam Krishan
Meanwhile, Morning Live star Dr Punam Krishan became the fifth Strictly 2024 star.
She appears on Morning Live as its resident GP. In a statement, Dr Punam said: “This still doesn’t feel real, I am overjoyed to be a contestant on this year’s show.
“I have watched Strictly every year with my family and it feels extra special that it’s the 20th year, I can’t believe I will be the one getting Strictly-fied now,” she then said.
“This is so out of my comfort zone, but I’m up for the journey and will give it my absolute all.”
Tasha is reported to have dated Giovanni Pernice (Credit: BBC)
Strictly contestants 2024: Tasha Ghouri
Rumoured to have enjoyed a fling with Giovanni Pernice, Tasha became the sixth celeb to join the line-up on August 7.
Tasha, who was born deaf, appeared on ITV’s Love Island in 2022. Since then has amassed a following of over 2.2 million across her social media network.
Tasha has worked with Number 10 Downing Street, The Department of Education and also MED-AL to champion issues close to her heart. She is also a published author with her debut novel Hits Different and has her own podcast, Superpowers with Tasha.
She said: “Pinch me, I can’t believe I’m going to be on Strictly Come Dancing! I’ve been watching the show since I was little – it’s a firm Ghouri family favourite. So this is a total dream come true.
“I know it’s going to be an unforgettable experience and I hope to represent and make everyone proud out on that dancefloor,” she then added.
Pete Wicks was announced as one of the contestants for Strictly 2024 (Credit: BBC)
Pete Wicks
After much speculation, Pete Wicks became the seventh person to sign up. A controversial signing given that he’s best friends with Zara McDermott’s boyfriend Sam Thompson.
Pete’s best known for his appearances on TOWIE, and has a podcast with Sam.
He said: “Dancing live in front of the nation every Saturday? Absolutely terrifying.”
Zara gushed over Pete doing Strictly (Credit: Instagram)
Pete then added: “But anyone who knows me knows I love a challenge and trying new things, so I’m genuinely looking forward to getting stuck in.”
Zara spoke out on her Instagram, writing: “I’ve never been so excited. Love you.”
Shayne will get his dancing shoes on! (Credit: BBC)
Shayne Ward
On August 8, during ITV’s Lorraine, Shayne Ward and Sarah Hadland were announced as the latest stars.
Former Coronation Street star Shayne said in a statement: “I’m buzzing to see all of the sparkles and magic that is Strictly in real life. I’m no stranger to live TV, but dancing Latin and Ballroom in front of millions is a whole new level. No promises on my dancing ability, but I will give it my best shot!”
Sarah will swap acting for dancing! (Credit: BBC)
Sarah Hadland
Miranda favourite Sarah also said: “I cannot believe I am part of Strictly! I feel particularly excited to be part of such an iconic show in its 20th year. I’m so ready for the glitz, glam and glitter and hopefully I can make everyone watching at home proud!”
Jamie is swapping Albert Square for the Strictly ballroom (Credit: BBC)
Jamie Borthwick
EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick has said in a statement: “I had a ball doing the Strictly Christmas special last year, so when I was asked to join for this series it was the easiest yes! This is a fresh challenge and it will be so different to be learning a new dance every week and for the public to have their say. I’m hoping to be Salsa-ing around Albert Square in no time and I’ll be asking my Walford Strictly alumni for some words of wisdom. See you on the dancefloor!”
He’s known for playing Jay Brown/Mitchell in the BBC soap.
Swimmer Tom Dean is doing Strictly! (Credit: BBC)
Tom Dean
Olympian Tom Dean MBE will also join the line-up. Swimmer Tom is a three-time Olympic champion.
He said in a statement: “I am taking part in Strictly Come Dancing 2024! You may have heard me accidentally say it poolside first… but now I can officially talk about how excited I am to get stuck into something new, meet some brilliant people and get dancing. Bring it on!”
Montell Douglas is doing Strictly! (Credit: BBC)
Montell Douglas
On August 9, ‘Fire’ from Gladiators and Olympian Montell Douglas was announced for Strictly 2024.
Montell said in a statement: “Strictly ARE YOU READY, Fire is here to light up the Ballroom. Wow I am so honoured to have been asked to do the show. It is such an amazing thing to be a part of and I can’t wait to get started. Hopefully a few of my Gladiator moves will come in handy with the Tango or Paso Doble!”
DIY SOS fave Nick is doing Strictly! (Credit: BBC)
Nick Knowles
DIY SOS star Nick Knowles has been announced as the next Strictly star on The One Show on August 12.
He said in a statement: “I’m so, so excited to be doing Strictly this year. People may be more used to me getting stuck in on a building site or travelling the world, but dancing live on TV will be a whole new adventure. I’ve spent my whole life learning new skills and I’ve never been afraid of a challenge – there’s life in the old dog yet to take on one more big one – being taught how to dance! I’ll give it my everything …. and try not to embarrass my kids of course!”
Paul Merson has joined the line-up! (Credit: BBC)
Paul Merson
Former football star Paul Merson will get his dancing shoes on. The news was announced on The One Show on August 12.
He said in a statement: “Joining Strictly is a whole new ball game for me, but I’m going to tackle this challenge head on. I’m ready to swap the pitch for the Ballroom floor, so here’s hoping my two left feet can learn some moves and you never know, maybe I’ll be taking home the Glitterball Trophy!”
Sam Quek will take to the dance floor (Credit: BBC)
Sam Quek
TV star Sam Quek is the final 2024 contestant. She’s known for being a hockey player and a TV star, having a hosting role on BBC’s Morning Live. She also appeared on I’m A Celebrity in 2016.
She said in a statement: “As a former hockey player I’m used to playing as part of a team, but the thought of dancing on the Ballroom floor in front of a live audience is quite daunting! I’m chuffed to be a part of this legendary show and Quickstep into the shoes of a performer, it feels absolutely surreal but I’m ready for every bit of the adventure.”
