Strictly Come Dancing fans are heartbroken following the announcement that Len Goodman has died at age 78.
The former ballroom dancer was the head judge on the BBC One programme from its launch in 2003 until his departure in 2016.
He also served the same role on the American equivalent, Dancing with the Stars, from its 2005 premiere to 2022.
Since the news of Goodman’s death was announced on Monday (24 April), tributes have poured in from fans and friends, including his former Strictly co-worker Craig Revel Horwood.
Across both series, Goodman was highly respected by his colleagues and loved by viewers. Here are se-ven! of his best moments.
“Pickle me walnuts”
Goodman was known for his colourful turns of phrase when describing performances that particularly entertained him.
In 2007, he was particularly moved by a ballroom dance performed by eventual winner (and later judge) Alesha Dixon and professional dancer Matthew Cutler.
“If you don’t get four 10s for that,...
The former ballroom dancer was the head judge on the BBC One programme from its launch in 2003 until his departure in 2016.
He also served the same role on the American equivalent, Dancing with the Stars, from its 2005 premiere to 2022.
Since the news of Goodman’s death was announced on Monday (24 April), tributes have poured in from fans and friends, including his former Strictly co-worker Craig Revel Horwood.
Across both series, Goodman was highly respected by his colleagues and loved by viewers. Here are se-ven! of his best moments.
“Pickle me walnuts”
Goodman was known for his colourful turns of phrase when describing performances that particularly entertained him.
In 2007, he was particularly moved by a ballroom dance performed by eventual winner (and later judge) Alesha Dixon and professional dancer Matthew Cutler.
“If you don’t get four 10s for that,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Alesha Dixon once threw up during a Strictly Come Dancing dress rehearsal... because she was hungover.
The singer, who went on to win the 2007 series, revealed that she was partying with her dancing partner Matthew Cutler the night before when she had perhaps a little too much to drink.
Alesha Dixon recalls starring in Pharrell's Nerd video - and needing an oxygen mask
"The final was a nightmare for me, actually," she told Alan Carr during taping of tonight's (October 2) episode of Chatty Man.
"Matthew Cutler, who was my dancing partner, and I went out and had a party to celebrate the fact we were in the final.
"[We] got to dress rehearsal on the Friday - I had five dances to do... He spun me round and round, and I ended up throwing up in the lovely seating area."
When asked by Carr if anyone knew she was hungover,...
The singer, who went on to win the 2007 series, revealed that she was partying with her dancing partner Matthew Cutler the night before when she had perhaps a little too much to drink.
Alesha Dixon recalls starring in Pharrell's Nerd video - and needing an oxygen mask
"The final was a nightmare for me, actually," she told Alan Carr during taping of tonight's (October 2) episode of Chatty Man.
"Matthew Cutler, who was my dancing partner, and I went out and had a party to celebrate the fact we were in the final.
"[We] got to dress rehearsal on the Friday - I had five dances to do... He spun me round and round, and I ended up throwing up in the lovely seating area."
When asked by Carr if anyone knew she was hungover,...
- 10/2/2015
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing contestant Fern Britton has reportedly been handed a short training ban. The TV presenter is said to have been told by producers to not rehearse until Wednesday (September 19) due to her previous appearance on the show's 2010 Christmas special. Producers reportedly placed her on the ban in order to avoid other contestants feeling that she has an unfair lead. Britton came third in the festive special with partner Matthew Cutler. She has been teamed up with professional (more)...
- 9/18/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
You may have just tuned into this year’s Strictly Come Dancing final, but fear not, there will be one more instalment of the BBC dance extravaganza before the year is out!
Before the withdrawal symptoms even get a chance to set in, Strictly will return for a one-off Christmas Special, jam packed with five brand new celebrities to bring you cheer this festive season.
The five star line up includes television presenter Fern Britton and her partner Matthew Cutler, legendary EastEnders’ lynchpin Dot Branning (nee Cotton) actress June Brown and her partner Vincent Simone, comedy actress Ronni Ancona and her partner Anton du Beke, stage and screen star John Barrowman and his partner Kristina Rihanoff, and completing our fabulous five is The Rt. Hon Vince Cable MP and partner Erin Boag. Tune in Christmas Day at 7pm, BBC One and BBC One HD to see who will be crowned Christmas dance champions.
Before the withdrawal symptoms even get a chance to set in, Strictly will return for a one-off Christmas Special, jam packed with five brand new celebrities to bring you cheer this festive season.
The five star line up includes television presenter Fern Britton and her partner Matthew Cutler, legendary EastEnders’ lynchpin Dot Branning (nee Cotton) actress June Brown and her partner Vincent Simone, comedy actress Ronni Ancona and her partner Anton du Beke, stage and screen star John Barrowman and his partner Kristina Rihanoff, and completing our fabulous five is The Rt. Hon Vince Cable MP and partner Erin Boag. Tune in Christmas Day at 7pm, BBC One and BBC One HD to see who will be crowned Christmas dance champions.
- 12/18/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Dancing On Ice is the next big reality TV show to brighten up our screens and ITV have finally officially confirmed the names of the stars taking part this January.
Many of the rumours that have circulated for months have been confirmed – former Coronation Street actor Steven Arnold will be taking part as will disgraced (and previously bankrupt) reality TV star Kerry Katona. Former newsreader Angela Rippon will also be on the lineup but contrary to previous reports Strictly Come Dancing star Matthew Cutler and Robbie Williams’ best mate Jonathan Wilkes will not.
The full list is detailed below and we’d love to hear your thoughts on the lineup. Do you recognise all the stars? Who do you think will do well and who will be the next Andi Peters? Leave your comments below!
Former Atomic Kitten singer – Kerry Katona
Coronation Street star: Steven Arnold
TV presenter: Jeff Brazier...
Many of the rumours that have circulated for months have been confirmed – former Coronation Street actor Steven Arnold will be taking part as will disgraced (and previously bankrupt) reality TV star Kerry Katona. Former newsreader Angela Rippon will also be on the lineup but contrary to previous reports Strictly Come Dancing star Matthew Cutler and Robbie Williams’ best mate Jonathan Wilkes will not.
The full list is detailed below and we’d love to hear your thoughts on the lineup. Do you recognise all the stars? Who do you think will do well and who will be the next Andi Peters? Leave your comments below!
Former Atomic Kitten singer – Kerry Katona
Coronation Street star: Steven Arnold
TV presenter: Jeff Brazier...
- 12/18/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
The five celebrities taking part in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special have been revealed. Following on from the announcements that The Rt Hon Vince Cable MP and Torchwood's John Barrowman would be taking part, three final names have been added to the bill. Ex-This Morning host Fern Britton will be dancing with Matthew Cutler, EastEnders icon June Brown will partner Vincent Simone and comedian Ronni Ancona is teamed up with Anton Du Beke. Barrowman will hit the dancefloor with Kristina Rihanoff, while Cable is partnered by Erin Boag. All five celebrities will perform different dances for the Strictly judges and studio audience in the hope of winning a new Christmas Special trophy. Speaking about her decision to sign up for the reality show, Britton said: "Strictly Come Dancing is my family's favourite (more)...
- 11/18/2010
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Four new dancers have joined Strictly Come Dancing as members of the new dancing troupe. A shakeup of the current professional lineup has seen several dancers exit the show. Among others, Matthew Cutler, Lilya Kopylova and Brian Fortuna had all been offered roles in the troupe - which will perform routines throughout the upcoming series - but instead decided to quit the programme. Joining the show are Tanya Perera, who has been involved in the West End production of Dirty Dancing, Shem Jacobs and Aneta Piotrowska, who have both performed in the Polish Dancing With The Stars and Crystal (more)...
- 8/26/2010
- by By Ryan Love
- Digital Spy
Matthew Cutler is to compete on 'Dancing On Ice'. The professional dancer - who quit 'Strictly Come Dancing' after being dropped from the competing element of the show for the forthcoming new series, appear in group dances only - has reportedly been approached to star on the celebrity skating show as a contestant, despite some seeing his background as an unfair advantage. A source said: ''His dance training will definitely give him an advantage and he could be seen as a front-runner from the off. ''Other contestants might not be too happy about that.'' Robbie Williams' best friend, singer-and-presenter Jonathan Wilkes, is also ..
- 8/2/2010
- Virgin Media - TV
Since being fired from Strictly Come Dancing, Matthew Cutler has managed to land a gig on another reality TV show. The 36 year old dancer has reportedly singed up to appear on ITV’s Dancing On Ice, not as a professional, but as a celebrity contestant.
Matthew, 36, who previously won Strictly with singer Alesha Dixon, was cut from the professional lineup of the show this year and instead offered a role in a dance troupe who would perform just once a week. He turned the offer down and instead opted to jump ship and move to ITV for a go at ice skating.
An insider told The Sun:
“Producers are really keen on Matthew, as signing him up would be two fingers to the BBC after they dropped him.
“His dance training will definitely give him an advantage and he could be seen as a front-runner from the off.
“Other contestants...
Matthew, 36, who previously won Strictly with singer Alesha Dixon, was cut from the professional lineup of the show this year and instead offered a role in a dance troupe who would perform just once a week. He turned the offer down and instead opted to jump ship and move to ITV for a go at ice skating.
An insider told The Sun:
“Producers are really keen on Matthew, as signing him up would be two fingers to the BBC after they dropped him.
“His dance training will definitely give him an advantage and he could be seen as a front-runner from the off.
“Other contestants...
- 8/2/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Matthew Cutler has reportedly signed up to compete in Dancing On Ice. The former Strictly Come Dancing star, who recently quit the BBC show after he was dropped from the main competition, will apparently appear on the show as a celebrity, not as a professional. According to The Sun, TV presenter Jonathan Wilkes has also agreed to take part in the ITV programme's upcoming sixth series. An insider told the paper that signing Cutler was "two fingers to the BBC after they dropped him", but another added: "It shows the power of Strictly that you can join as an unknown dancer and by the time you leave you can go on to another show as a celebrity." The 36-year-old dancer, (more)...
- 8/2/2010
- by By Christian Tobin
- Digital Spy
Matthew Cutler and Lilia Kopylova have quit 'Strictly Come Dancing'. The dancers won't return to the ballroom dance show as permanent members when it comes back onto the BBC later this year, but may make occasional appearances as part of the professional troupe. Matt - who is leaving to focus on his the dance school he opened last year - will also choreograph a few of the group routines for the show. He said: ''I've absolutely loved my time on 'Strictly', and now is a good time to focus on developing new areas of my career. I'm excited about having more time to commit ..
- 7/23/2010
- Virgin Media - TV
Ian Waite and Darren Bennett will return to Strictly Come Dancing as part of this series’ new professional dance group, and will be joined by four new recruits – one male and three female – who will be confirmed as the series draws nearer.
Matthew Cutler won’t return as a permanent member of the dance group. Instead, he’s concentrating on a burgeoning choreographic and teaching career, plus managing his own dance school, which he opened last year. He will, however, return to choreograph some of the group numbers – and a few guest appearances aren’t ruled out.
Matt said: “I’ve absolutely loved my time on Strictly, and now is a good time to focus on developing new areas of my career. I’m excited about having more time to commit to new projects and, of course, still having a hand in Strictly without all the training!”
Lilia Kopylova will...
Matthew Cutler won’t return as a permanent member of the dance group. Instead, he’s concentrating on a burgeoning choreographic and teaching career, plus managing his own dance school, which he opened last year. He will, however, return to choreograph some of the group numbers – and a few guest appearances aren’t ruled out.
Matt said: “I’ve absolutely loved my time on Strictly, and now is a good time to focus on developing new areas of my career. I’m excited about having more time to commit to new projects and, of course, still having a hand in Strictly without all the training!”
Lilia Kopylova will...
- 7/23/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Matthew Cutler and Lilya Kopylova have quit BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, after a huge shake up of the reality TV show.
The pair had been dropped from the main line up and were told they would not be partnering celebrities this year. Instead they were offered a place on a dance troupe, who would undertake weekly performances and be paid only by the dance. They followed in the footsteps of Brian Fortuna who quit last month and turned the offer down.
Speaking about his departure, Cutler said: “I’ve absolutely loved my time on Strictly, and now is a good time to focus on developing new areas of my career. I’m excited about having more time to commit to new projects, and of course, still having a hand in Strictly without all the training!”
Kopylova added: “I will miss it, but I am looking forward to new opportunities ahead.
The pair had been dropped from the main line up and were told they would not be partnering celebrities this year. Instead they were offered a place on a dance troupe, who would undertake weekly performances and be paid only by the dance. They followed in the footsteps of Brian Fortuna who quit last month and turned the offer down.
Speaking about his departure, Cutler said: “I’ve absolutely loved my time on Strictly, and now is a good time to focus on developing new areas of my career. I’m excited about having more time to commit to new projects, and of course, still having a hand in Strictly without all the training!”
Kopylova added: “I will miss it, but I am looking forward to new opportunities ahead.
- 7/23/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Matthew Cutler and Lilya Kopylova will not take part in the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing. The duo had been asked to perform in a new dance group on the BBC One show alongside Ian Waite, Darren Bennett and Brian Fortuna. However, both dancers have decided to pursue other opportunities instead. Fortuna pulled out of the reality show last month. The new dance group was introduced following the reduction in the number of celebrities taking part in this year's programme from 16 to 14, and the arrival of three new male dancers - Artem Chigvintsev, Jared Murillo and Robin Windsor. Waite and Bennett have agreed to take part in the new dance troupe and will be joined by four new recruits, three female and one male. Speaking about his exit, Cutler said: "I've absolutely loved my time on Strictly, and now is a good time to focus on developing (more)...
- 7/23/2010
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
It seems that the bosses of Strictly Come Dancing have decided to reduce the number of contestants to 14 this year, and instead of the usual run of 14 weeks, this year’s competition will run for 12 weeks.
Apparently the moves have been made to “hold viewers’ interest” since viewing figures dropped last year.
The Sun reports that although the changes to those parts of the show’s format are now set, none of the show’s hosts or professional dancers have yet received contracts for the upcoming series.
The paper adds, “Last year Brucie pocketed £500,000, the judges got £90,000 and the pro dancers around £30,000 each.”
It goes on to state that Ian Waite, Matthew Cutler, Lilia Kopylova and Darren Bennett have all “been invited to take part” in the show, but have so far refused to sign a contract.
Brian Fortuna was also offered a role in a new dance troupe planned for this year,...
Apparently the moves have been made to “hold viewers’ interest” since viewing figures dropped last year.
The Sun reports that although the changes to those parts of the show’s format are now set, none of the show’s hosts or professional dancers have yet received contracts for the upcoming series.
The paper adds, “Last year Brucie pocketed £500,000, the judges got £90,000 and the pro dancers around £30,000 each.”
It goes on to state that Ian Waite, Matthew Cutler, Lilia Kopylova and Darren Bennett have all “been invited to take part” in the show, but have so far refused to sign a contract.
Brian Fortuna was also offered a role in a new dance troupe planned for this year,...
- 7/7/2010
- by Sarah
- Unreality
Ali Bastian has predicted that Strictly Come Dancing will go "from strength to strength" this year, despite the departure of her boyfriend Brian Fortuna. Fortuna quit the BBC ballroom show earlier this month after discovering that producers planned to put him in a dance troupe rather than pair him up with a celebrity. Darren Bennett, Lilia Kopylova, Ian Waite and Matthew Cutler have also been dropped from Strictly's main lineup of stars but will feature in the new dance group. (more)...
- 6/28/2010
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Fiona Phillips has claimed that BBC bosses should have consulted Strictly Come Dancing fans before going ahead with the show's latest revamp. The former GMTV host, who was a contestant on Strictly's 2005 series, spoke out following the news that Darren Bennett, Lilia Kopylova, Ian Waite and Matthew Cutler will not partner celebrities on the next series. The quartet will instead perform regularly as a dance group when Strictly returns in the autumn. The shake-up makes room for new faces who have been recruited for the lineup of professionals. Writing in her Mirror column, Phillips remarked: "At times, TV bosses are like politicians - they have no idea what real people want. Take Strictly (more)...
- 6/14/2010
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Brendan Cole has claimed that Strictly Come Dancing's latest revamp could be "great" for the show. Last week, it was announced that Darren Bennett, Lilia Kopylova, Ian Waite and Matthew Cutler will have reduced roles on the next series, appearing in a special dance group rather than being partnered with celebrities. Brian Fortuna was also offered a place in the troupe but instead chose to quit the programme. The shake-up comes as Us So You Think You Can Dance star Artem Chigvintsev, High School Musical dancer Jared Murillo and Burn The Floor's (more)...
- 6/14/2010
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Former Strictly Come Dancing star Julian Clary has admitted that he is unimpressed by the latest changes to hit the show. Earlier this week, producers announced that Darren Bennett, Lilia Kopylova, Ian Waite and Matthew Cutler will not have celebrity partners on the next series. They will instead have reduced roles in a new dance group which will perform regularly. Speaking on The 5 O'Clock Show about the shake-up, Clary commented: "I can't believe it. They keep getting it slightly wrong, don't they? (more)...
- 6/10/2010
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
The lineup changes for the 2010 series of Strictly Come Dancing have divided opinion on the Digital Spy forums. It was confirmed yesterday that three new male dancers - Artem Chigvintsev, Jared Murillo and Robin Windsor - will be joining the professionals on the ballroom dance contest. Former stars Darren Bennett, Lilia Kopylova, Ian Waite and Matthew Cutler have had their roles reduced on the show. They will now perform in a dance troupe, but will not take part in the main competition. Us dancer Brian Fortuna announced last night that he is quitting the programme after he was initially confirmed as part of the new dance group. Fans of Fortuna, Bennett, Kopylova, Waite and Cutler have protested at the move. "I think Strictly has just signed its own death warrant and lost the battle with X Factor, not to mention the plot," said forum member SilverBird. "Ian (more)...
- 6/9/2010
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Brian Fortuna has decided to leave BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, after he was offered a reduced role on the new series of the show.
BBC revealed plans of it’s new format yesterday and detailed how some of it’s regulars such as Brian and Matthew Cutler, would not be partnering celebrities this year, but would instead be offered the chance to perform weekly as part of the professional dance troupe.
Brian, who partnered his now girlfriend Ali Bastian on last year’s series of the show, has turned down their offer and now plans to concentrate on stage show Burn The Floor – in which he currently stars alongside former Bill actress Ali.
Mr Fortuna said: ‘I really enjoyed working on Strictly over the years – loved the fans and loved all the people I got work with – but there are changes planned for the next season so I’ve...
BBC revealed plans of it’s new format yesterday and detailed how some of it’s regulars such as Brian and Matthew Cutler, would not be partnering celebrities this year, but would instead be offered the chance to perform weekly as part of the professional dance troupe.
Brian, who partnered his now girlfriend Ali Bastian on last year’s series of the show, has turned down their offer and now plans to concentrate on stage show Burn The Floor – in which he currently stars alongside former Bill actress Ali.
Mr Fortuna said: ‘I really enjoyed working on Strictly over the years – loved the fans and loved all the people I got work with – but there are changes planned for the next season so I’ve...
- 6/9/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
After last year’s introduction of three new female dancers, this year sees three new males taking to the dance floor on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing. There will also be a new group of professional dancers, who will not partner celebrities but instead concentrate on group routines for the live shows.
This year Strictly will welcome new dancers:
Artem Chigvintsev, a Latin champion who is a graduate of So You Think You Can Dance? in the Us and has unique experience of very different dancing genres in addition to his ballroom champion-level skill.
Jared Murillo who, at 21, was a Us open swing youth champion. Trained in America, Jared was a principal dancer in the movies High School Musical 1 & 2.
Robin Windsor has completed five world tours of the worldwide ballroom dancing phenomena Burn The Floor, in which he has starred and choreographed routines.
The new professional group will comprise...
This year Strictly will welcome new dancers:
Artem Chigvintsev, a Latin champion who is a graduate of So You Think You Can Dance? in the Us and has unique experience of very different dancing genres in addition to his ballroom champion-level skill.
Jared Murillo who, at 21, was a Us open swing youth champion. Trained in America, Jared was a principal dancer in the movies High School Musical 1 & 2.
Robin Windsor has completed five world tours of the worldwide ballroom dancing phenomena Burn The Floor, in which he has starred and choreographed routines.
The new professional group will comprise...
- 6/8/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Three new males have joined the professional dancers lineup for the 2010 series of Strictly Come Dancing. Latin champion and Us So You Think You Can Dance graduate Artem Chigvintsev, 21-year-old High School Musical dancer and Swing Youth winner Jared Murillo, and Burn The Floor star Robin Windsor will all join the Strictly family for the eighth series. There will be 14 celebrities in this year's ballroom competition, but the professionals without a partner will still be part of the show in a new 'dance group'. Featuring Brian Fortuna, Darren Bennett, Lilia Kopylova, Ian Waite and Matthew Cutler, the troupe are to be joined by fellow professionals each week, depending on the style of dance that they perform. Competing alongside the celebrities this (more)...
- 6/8/2010
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Lily Allen will perform ‘Not Fair’ on Strictly Come Dancing tomorrow night, accompanied by the professional dancers Matthew Cutler and Aliona Vilani. Lily, who is currently on tour, is a huge Strictly fan and really looking forward to performing on the show.
It will be an action-packed show as world-renowned ballerina and Strictly guest judge Darcey Bussell will perform a surprise dance with pro dancer Ian Waite. The cast of hit musical Hairspray will also perform ‘You Can’t Stop The Beat’.
It promises to be a thrilling semi-final, as there will also be no Dance-Off between the lowest-scoring two couples. After all the couples have danced, the judges’ points and the public’s votes will be added together. The couple with the lowest combined score will leave the competition. If there’s a tie, the two couples with the highest audience vote will be saved.
Saturday 12th December 6.45pm...
It will be an action-packed show as world-renowned ballerina and Strictly guest judge Darcey Bussell will perform a surprise dance with pro dancer Ian Waite. The cast of hit musical Hairspray will also perform ‘You Can’t Stop The Beat’.
It promises to be a thrilling semi-final, as there will also be no Dance-Off between the lowest-scoring two couples. After all the couples have danced, the judges’ points and the public’s votes will be added together. The couple with the lowest combined score will leave the competition. If there’s a tie, the two couples with the highest audience vote will be saved.
Saturday 12th December 6.45pm...
- 12/11/2009
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Producers of Strictly Come Dancing have confirmed details of the show's forthcoming 2010 UK arena tour. Former EastEnders actor Ricky Groves and BBC Breakfast's Chris Hollins are due to perform alongside fellow dancers from the current series Ali Bastian, Natalie Cassidy and Zöe Lucker, as well as previously announced stars Kelly Brook, Austin Healey and Mark Ramprakash. The eight celebrities are to appear with professionals Darren Bennett, Matthew Cutler, Brian Fortuna, James Jordan, Ola Jordan, Lilia Kopylova, Natalie Lowe, Kristina Rihanoff, Aliona Vilani and Ian Waite. The original lineup of judges - Len Goodman, Bruno Tolioni, Arlene Philips and Craig Revel-Horwood - will also be on hand, commenting on and scoring the performances. 'Strictly Come Dancing: The Live Tour!' will appear at the following venues: Friday, January 15 Manchester (more)...
- 11/27/2009
- by By Oli Simpson
- Digital Spy
Rod Stewart has been revealed as the musical guest for this Saturday’s Strictly Come Dancing, which comes live from Blackpool Tower Ballroom, the home of ballroom dancing. Rod will be performing the hit ‘Same Old Song’ – and will be joined by his wife, and former Strictly contestant, Penny Lancaster, making it a real family affair!
Penny will be teaming up with Strictly professional dancer, Matthew Cutler, to perform a Cha Cha Cha during Rod’s performance. This will be the first time that Penny has returned to the show since competing in series five in 2007. Penny didn’t get to perform the Cha Cha Cha when she was on the show so it’s a dance she has waited a long time to do.
Rod and Penny will be flying up to Blackpool in their own private jet, while the rest of the Strictly crew will be travelling up by coach.
Penny will be teaming up with Strictly professional dancer, Matthew Cutler, to perform a Cha Cha Cha during Rod’s performance. This will be the first time that Penny has returned to the show since competing in series five in 2007. Penny didn’t get to perform the Cha Cha Cha when she was on the show so it’s a dance she has waited a long time to do.
Rod and Penny will be flying up to Blackpool in their own private jet, while the rest of the Strictly crew will be travelling up by coach.
- 11/3/2009
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Martina Hingis has admitted that she thought she was safe in Saturday's Strictly Come Dancing dance-off. The former Wimbledon champion, who became the first celebrity to be voted off the show at the weekend, said that she thought her superior points tally to Rav Wilding in both the Latin and Ballroom would see her through to the next round. Hingis and partner Matthew Cutler found themselves in the bottom two alongside Wilding and Aliona Vilani, despite not being among the lowest scorers with the judges. "I am quite a disappointed because we put so much work into it and I don't get to dance anymore," she told It Takes Two. "Our group got along really well and before going live on the show Alioni, who ended up in the bottom two with us, she actually gave me loads of tips and help." She added: "We had better scores from the...
- 9/22/2009
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Alesha Dixon has described the criticism of her performance on Strictly Come Dancing as a "storm in a teacup". Responding to complaints from both viewers and sections of the media, Dixon insisted that she does have the credentials to be on the judging panel. "People forget that I had four months of solid training from the World Champion (Matthew Cutler) for ten hours a day. I haven't just been picked up off the street and told to judge a little dancing show," she told It Takes Two. "I do know what I'm talking about. "I find it such a shame that it (more)...
- 9/21/2009
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Martina Hingis has become the first contestant to be voted off Strictly Come Dancing. The tennis player, who was paired with professional dancer Matthew Cutler, found herself in the bottom two alongside Rav Wilding and Aliona Vilani. After the dance-off, judges Len Goodman, Alesha Dixon, Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli had to decide which couple to eliminate. The panel opted to save Rav and Aliona, leaving (more)...
- 9/19/2009
- by By Catriona Wightman
- Digital Spy
Matthew Cutler has argued that Alesha Dixon will bring a "new dynamic" to this year's Strictly panel. The dancer, who partnered Dixon when she won the show in 2007, defended the programme's decision to bring her in as a replacement for Arlene Phillips. "I'm looking forward to it. I think it will add a new dynamic to the show, but I don't know how it will work or how she will be with me," he told Digital Spy. "I know Alesha very well as you know and the one thing I do know about her is that she will be fair. "I think Arlene will still be a big part of the show and I'm really glad about that, and (more)...
- 8/25/2009
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Concern over Alesha Dixon's appointment as a Strictly Come Dancing judge is shared by members of the show's production team, it has been claimed. Yesterday, it was reported that the programme's professional dancers had blasted the decision to hire Dixon in private meetings with bosses. The popstar's new post was announced by BBC One controller Jay Hunt last week following weeks of speculation about the new series. It follows her success on the competition's fifth run in 2007, which saw her triumphing with professional partner Matthew Cutler. A Strictly insider has now told the Daily Mail: "A lot of the dancers are annoyed and a lot (more)...
- 7/13/2009
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Rachel Stevens has insisted that she was not surprised to face a new setback on Strictly Come Dancing at the weekend. The former S Club star and dance partner Vincent Simone found themselves in the bottom two for the second time after the latest live round. They were eventually saved after the judges decided to send home Christine Bleakley and Matthew Cutler. Discussing her experience on spinoff show It Takes Two, Stevens revealed: "It's absolutely horrible. It's really horrible. But we were more prepared. We had (more)...
- 12/2/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Christine Bleakley has become the eleventh celebrity to be eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing. The TV host and dance partner Matthew Cutler found themselves in the bottom two for the first time after performing the tango and salsa in the latest live round. They were joined by Rachel Stevens and Vincent Simone, who had previously escaped the axe three weeks ago. Bleakley and Cutler had been criticised by the judges for their tango in the performance show. Craig Revel Horwood described their efforts as "not good enough", while Arlene Phillips suggested that the presenter lacked "core strength". The pair's tango picked (more)...
- 11/30/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Christine Bleakley has vowed to repay her Strictly Come Dancing supporters by getting back on track this week. The TV host and her dance partner Matthew Cutler were saved by public votes after finishing at the bottom of the judges' leaderboard at the weekend. Speaking on It Takes Two tonight, Bleakley admitted that she expected to face the dance-off following her poorly-received cha cha performance. "I thought that was it - it was all over. I really did," she explained. "I was standing there the whole time just thinking about what I'd done wrong and (more)...
- 11/25/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Christine Bleakley has admitted that her lack of confidence is holding her back on Strictly Come Dancing. The TV presenter confirmed that her "self-conscious" nature is proving to be her biggest obstacle in the competition and is giving her dance partner Matthew Cutler cause for concern. "All the other people on Strictly seem so confident, and aren't afraid to hurl themselves into it. I'm the one holding back," Bleakley told the Daily Mail. "I get annoyed at myself for listening to the voice in my head, which says: 'But you can't think you are any good'. "I'm trying to let that go - to find my inner diva. But it's not easy. (more)...
- 11/22/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Christine Bleakley has revealed that she is thrilled after bouncing back on Strictly Come Dancing. The One Show presenter picked up 31 points, her highest score yet, from the judges on Saturday night after getting a mixed reaction from the panel in the two previous weeks. Bleakley and dance partner Matthew Cutler's jive also impressed the public and they managed to avoid the dance-off for another week. Speaking on spinoff show It Takes Two, she admitted: "It felt fantastic. We enjoyed the whole day." "I came back (more)...
- 11/11/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Christine Bleakley has claimed that she is refusing to adopt a competitive attitude as she progresses further in Strictly Come Dancing. The One Show host and her dance partner Matthew Cutler have won praise from the judges in recent weeks and they have yet to be in the bottom two. Asked on spinoff show It Takes Two if she was avoiding getting competitive, Bleakley replied: "Oh, completely. I just have so much fun. I mean, the first couple of weeks were quite shaky because you're literally trying to find your feet, and (more)...
- 10/22/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing champion Alesha Dixon has predicted that Christine Bleakley will "go very far" on this year's show. TV presenter Bleakley dances with Matthew Cutler, Dixon's former partner on the show, and Dixon admitted she initially found it strange watching them together. "At first I had to adjust my eyes a bit because when I look at Matthew I expect to see myself at the end of his arms!" she told Digital Spy. "But now I've met Christine I have to say she and Matthew are a fantastic (more)...
- 10/19/2008
- by By Nick Levine
- Digital Spy
Christine Bleakley has vowed to start having fun again as she prepares for her next Strictly Come Dancing performance. The One Show host has decided to brush off recent criticism from the judges before dancing the samba with her professional partner Matthew Cutler this weekend. Speaking on spinoff show It Takes Two, Bleakley explained: "After Saturday, it's very easy to step off the dancefloor and just focus completely on the negative points, but actually we didn't get the worst comments, so I think I'm going to focus on that, and take on board what they said, (more)...
- 10/15/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Christine Bleakley has admitted that she was plagued by nerves as she made her Strictly Come Dancing debut. The One Show host and her professional partner Matthew Cutler performed a foxtrot, their first individual dance of the series, on Saturday night's episode of the BBC ballroom show. Speaking on It Takes Two tonight, Bleakley revealed that the most difficult moment came as she stood backstage and awaited her prompt to join the dancefloor. "Suddenly we have to dance in front of the nation. And to be honest, on a personal level, I was even more nervous because my entire family had flown from Northern Ireland and they were all sitting there," Christine (more)...
- 9/30/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing star Christine Bleakley is suffering from stress after comparing herself to last year's winner Alesha Dixon, according to a report. The TV host has been feeling pressured since discovering that her professional dance partner is Matthew Cutler, who was paired with Dixon on the 2007 series. Things went from bad to worse for Bleakley when Matthew encouraged her to watch footage of Alesha's winning routines. "Poor Christine probably has the hardest pair of dance shoes (more)...
- 9/7/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
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