Vicky Pattison has been eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing in a dramatic and emotional result show that coincided with her 38th birthday. The former Geordie Shore star fought back tears as she apologised to her professional dance partner Kai Widdrington, saying she felt “so sorry” that they were unable to make it to the show’s legendary Blackpool week, which is often considered a milestone for contestants.
The pair found themselves at the bottom of the Saturday night leaderboard, landing in the dreaded dance-off alongside EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal and professional partner Julian Caillon. Balvinder, 46, and Julian, 30, performed their elegant American Smooth to My Guy by Mary Wells, while Vicky and Kai delivered a high-energy jive to Sound of the Underground by Girls Aloud. Despite their spirited performance, the judges’ decision was unanimous.
Head judge Shirley Ballas, along with Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke, all voted to save Balvinder and Julian. Though Craig Revel Horwood held the casting vote, he confirmed he would have made the same choice, sealing Vicky and Kai’s departure from the competition.
After the result was announced, Vicky delivered a heartfelt goodbye:
“It was so lovely while it lasted, and I’ve had the nicest time. I knew this week was a difficult one for me and I tried my hardest, as I have every single week.”
She added that she never expected to make it far in the competition:
“Honestly, I didn’t think I’d get past week one. I’m honoured to have shared this experience with so many amazing people — especially with this fella right here.”
Turning to Kai, she continued:
“I’m so sorry I didn’t get you to Blackpool. But I feel like I’ve won just by having you as my partner.”
Kai responded with equally emotional praise, calling Vicky everything Strictly represents — “strong, confident, independent” — and admitting that he, too, felt like a winner for having worked with her.
“You will live on in Strictly history forever,” he told her, adding that he was “gutted” not to be dancing with her in Blackpool.
As news of her elimination spread, Strictly stars — including Jowita Przystal, Karen Carney — and reality TV friends such as Ferne McCann and Pete Wicks wished Vicky a happy birthday and congratulated her on her journey.
Sunday’s results show also featured a high-energy routine from the professional dancers, who teamed up with Britain’s Got Talent 2009 champions Diversity, adding an electrifying edge to the evening. Singer Olly Murs also performed his track Run This Town, accompanied by dancers Amy Dowden, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Nancy Xu.
With Vicky and Kai now out of the competition, the remaining seven couples will head to the iconic Tower Ballroom in Blackpool for next weekend’s special episodes — airing at 6.35pm Saturday and 7.15pm Sunday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Vicky and Kai will appear on Strictly spin-off It Takes Two on Monday, November 17 at 6.30pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.
Sources: OK! Magazine; PA Media; BBC; BBC One; BBC iPlayer
