Strictly Come Dancing viewers have been left fuming after a popular contestant was axed in the fifth dance-off of the series which one judge said featured "fighting spirit" from both couples.
Former Love Island star and documentary maker Zara McDermott and her partner Graziano Di Prima are the latest couple to have lost their chance to lift the Glitterball trophy later this year.
They exited the competition after their Charleston dance to Jeepers Creepers by Al Donahue and his Orchestra failed to impress judges on Sunday’s pre-recorded BBC One show.
Zara, 26, received a total of 25 points from the judges on Saturday and following a public vote faced Waterloo Road’s Adam Thomas and Luba Mushtuk in the dance-off.
She had come back triumphant from two previous dance-offs but was unable to snatch victory for a third time.
Adam and Luba’s American smooth dance to Magic Moments by Perry Como had received a total score of 32 points from the judges.
Following the couples performing once again, judge Craig Revel Horwood said: “For me one couple did remarkably well and nailed that routine. That couple is Adam and Luba.”
Motsi Mabuse made the same decision, nevertheless praising both couples for their routines. “Well I feel there was definitely a fighting spirit from both couples, I think both couples improved remarkably, they were both stunning,” she said.
Both Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas chose to save Adam and Luba as well.
Taking to Twitter, fans felt like the result of the dance-off was the right one, with one writing: "Aahhhh bless Zara McDermot. I had a feeling her time was up, I felt like she just wouldn’t get out of 3rd gear, if that makes any sense? Anyways she should be proud of herself."
With another saying: "So it's goodbye Zara & Graziano. You may have reached your limit but the improvement for a non-dancer was great. You can leave with your heads held high."
Someone else penned: "Bye Zara. You did so well! Proud of you darling!!!"
This viewer wrote: "I’ve acc really enjoyed Zara, she’s really tried every week and that’s what I enjoy seeing. Was the right decision tho."
Zara said: “I have had the time of my life. Just to be here is incredible. Thank you to the judges and my amazing partner obviously.
“My fellow contestants are just incredible. It has been the most amazing experience. I can’t believe it’s over but I am going to be here in spirit every week supporting them.”
Graziano told his dance partner that he was “so proud” of her and said she is what Strictly “is all about”. He said: “She has been great for me 8am till 9pm. Never stopping, asking just for a half an hour break.
“She is literally what Strictly is all about. A real novice, coming in, putting all the hard job. You have such a good soul. You are so humble and I say thank you that I found a friend like you.
"I have learnt so much from you. And your hard work within six weeks. You have never danced before. I am so proud of you. So proud of you honestly.”
The eliminated pair will be be joining former Strictly star Fleur East on Strictly It Takes Two on Monday at 6.30pm on BBC Two.
The results show included a performance from Rick Astley with his new single Forever And More and professional dancers doubled down on the Halloween theme with a Wednesday Addams inspired routine.
Strictly Come Dancing returns on Saturday November 4 at 7.05pm on BBC One.
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