"It lacked, for me, definition; it really did."
Strictly Come Dancing viewers showed their support for Balvinder Sopal after what many described as “outrageous” scoring from judge Craig Revel Horwood.
The EastEnders actress and partner Julian Caillon performed a vibrant Bhangra-inspired number that was dedicated to Balvinder’s late mother, who passed away in 2024.
Balvinder said the routine was a celebration of her culture.
The performance left many viewers emotional and earned a standing ovation from judge Motsi Mabuse.
While Motsi, Shirley Ballas, and Anton Du Beke gave nines, Craig scored her a seven, a decision that sparked anger online.
On X, one comment read: “Craig scoring Balvinder a 7 is actually criminal.”
Another viewer wrote: “I’m sorry, but how can Craig comment badly on a style of dance HE HASN’T EVEN DANCED BEFORE AND WILL NEVER DANCE?!?!? MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.”
A third added: “How was that a 7 Craig?! Votes to Bal and Julian tonight!”
In his feedback, Craig said: “I am totally obsessed with this style of dance. I absolutely love it and totally respect it.
“It lacked, for me, definition; it really did. It needed to be a lot cleaner and a lot sharper and have more attack at the end of your phrases.”
Despite being booed by the audience, he ended on a positive note:
“Your shaping, however, is absolutely excellent, your timing is superb, and, you know what? You owned that tonight.”
Motsi offered heartfelt praise: “I know that your mum is watching, and she’s so proud of you.
“I’m also so happy that you got to do this dance on this floor after all the weeks that you’ve been through.”
Head judge Shirley Ballas described it as Balvinder’s “best dance so far”, adding:
“I learned some things from you! I shall be teaching those in my private lessons.”
Anton Du Beke said: “I’ve criticised you over the weeks for not having enough commitment in your legs… well, you absolutely nailed that tonight. It was a joy. I loved every second of it. You seemed much more secure in everything you did.”
Viewers celebrated Balvinder’s decision to showcase authentic South Asian dance on the BBC show.
One tweeted: “We’ve had South Asian dance on #Strictly before but it’s always been heavily Bollywood influenced because that’s what’s palatable for the audience.
“So proud of Bal to take the risk and be the first to do authentic Punjabi moves on the Strictly dancefloor!”
Another said: “I am so so so proud of Balvinder. What an incredible way to showcase Punjabi and South Asian culture so loud and proud.
“This will mean so much to many and is pure joy. We even got a Dhol player!!!”
In a tearful pre-performance video, Balvinder reflected on her mother’s influence:
“Last year was a really terrible year for us. Losing my mum felt, and still does feel, like I’ve lost a part of me.
“Me and my mum, we had a brilliant relationship. And one of the things I loved was coming home from work and sitting down and having a cup of tea with my mum, wrapped in a blanket, and we’d just be warm together.
“I said no to every single thing that came my way, and then Strictly came knocking, and I thought, ‘Yeah, I’m gonna do it. This is my yes year’.”
Watch Balvinder’s Dance
Loading ...