Strictly viewers slam judges' 'harsh' scoring of Balvinder Sopal

The actress performed an American Smooth tonight
Rebecca Carter

Strictly Come Dancing viewers have criticised the judges for their scoring of Balvinder Sopal.

EastEnders actress Balvinder, 46, has faced tough criticism from the judges during her time in the competition.

She has also faced being in the bottom two on a few occasions.

On Saturday’s show, Balvinder and her professional partner Julian Caillon performed an American Smooth to My Guy by Mary Wells.

However, the performance didn’t win over the judges ahead of Blackpool week.

Balvinder Sopal speaking to Tess Daly on Strictly
Balvinder and Julian performed an American Smooth on Strictly tonight (Credit: BBC)

Balvinder Sopal performs American Smooth on Strictly

After the performance, Anton Du Beke told them: “For me, moving across the floor, it was a little safe.

“I wanted a little bit more of that positivity you showed last week to transfer itself into this dance. But it was neat and tidy. I enjoyed the performance.”

Why are the Judges always so hard on Balvinder?

Meanwhile, Craig Revel Horwood said: “You need to watch your recovering arm when you’re coming down from a lift. I would like to see a little bit more punch. But you know, you always dance with conviction and that’s what I love about you. You’re the most beautiful storyteller as well.”

Balvinder Sopal and partner Julian on Strictly
Viewers slammed the judges’ scores for Balvinder (Credit: BBC)

Motsi Mabuse added: “Just when you dance together, I see you’re trying to show the technique and that takes it a bit away from the performance skills.”

Shirley Ballas then said: “Here we are, the week before Blackpool, I can see you’re feeling comfortable with your partner. Thank you for working on your feet.”

When it came to the judges’ scoring, Craig gave them a six while Anton, Motsi and Shirley each gave them a seven.

Viewers on X were left gutted for Balvinder, and expressed their worry that she’ll be in the dance-off.

The judges' scores for Balvinder on Strictly
The judges gave Balvinder and Julian a score of 27 (Credit: BBC)

One person said: “Harsh scores for Balvinder and Julian. Judges showing who they want eliminated.”

Another wrote: “6s AND 7s???? HAVE WE ACTUALLY LOST THE PLOT???? JUSTICE FOR BAL.”

Someone else added: “A 6??? Bal was so underscored.”

Another tweeted: “Why are the Judges always so hard on Balvinder? That American smooth was worth 8s. Please vote for Balvinder.”

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