Strictly Come Dancing viewers claimed there was favouritism from the judges during the live final
The live final of Strictly Come Dancing on Saturday night stirred up controversy among viewers, with claims of a “fix”.
As the judges revealed their scores, disgruntled fans took to social media to voice their complaints, arguing it was becoming increasingly clear who the panel and BBC bosses were rooting for.
Karen and Carlos delivered a dramatic routine to Red Right Hand by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, and the judges didn’t hesitate in awarding them four tens, resulting in a perfect score of 40 – the highest of the evening.
George and Alexis found themselves narrowly missing out on a perfect score as they fell just short of perfection, receiving scores of 9, 10, 10 and 10 for a total of 39. Craig faced boos from the audience as he was the only judge to give a nine.
Amber and Nikita also narrowly missed out after they performed their Showdance to Rain On Me by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande. Despite receiving high praise from the judges, they too were given a score of 39 after receiving 9, 10, 10 and 10, reports the Express.
This marked the only occasion throughout the evening when Craig awarded a maximum score, a fact not overlooked by viewers who accused the judges of favouring Karen in the live final.
Viewers expressed their frustration, accusing the judges of bias. One viewer vented: “It is disappointingly clear who the producers want to win.”
Another viewer declared: “The judges want Karen to win. It’s so obvious.”
A third person commented: “it’s very clear to me that the producers and judges want Karen to win. Sureley there is a fix going on here? ?”
Yet others criticised the marking system directly, with one supporter posting: “I feel the #Strictly judges want Amber to win. I don’t think it’s fair for a person that has had professional dance training to be in the final of Strictly. I really wish George and Karen all the best.”
The panel’s enthusiastic feedback for Karen simply fuelled more online criticism. Motsi gushed: “I am so proud of you right now. I can see that you’ve worked intensely on that. It was action-packed, it was stylish, it was gorgeous. Absolutely amazing.”
Shirley was even more effusive in her praise, stating: “You get on this dance floor and you are a deadly competitor, you put it all on the floor. That was one of my favourite numbers that I’ve ever seen.”
Anton highlighted the performance’s intricacies, remarking: “Dark, moody, serious. I enjoyed this the first time but this was even better. More accomplished. You have so many wonderful details. Attention to detail makes a dance like this come alive. It was sensational.”
Craig concluded: “The concept, I think, is absolutely incredible… Your acting throughout was remarkable. You are a sensation.”
The discontent persisted, with another spectator observing: “Karen getting all tens and no one else. The absolute desperation from the judges to get her the win…” Another queried: “The judges are so desperate for Karen to win, it’s hilarious. Do they have a bet on her?”
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Strictly Come Dancing can be streamed on BBC iPlayer.
