Strictly Come Dancing's Shaun Wright-Phillips admits he 'knew' he was going to face dance-off
Shaun was eliminated during Sunday night's results showStrictly Come Dancing star Shaun Wright-Phillips has opened up about his exit from the show alongside Alexis Warr on It Takes Two.
Professional dancer Alexis emotionally wiped her eyes and covered her face as a montage revisited their time in the competition during Monday’s edition of the spin-off show.
Shaun and Alexis had been eliminated in the latest dance-off against Jaime Winstone and Carlos Gu.
They repeated their jive to Faith by Stevie Wonder featuring Ariana Grande in a bid to stay.
Head judge Shirley Ballas chose to save them, but Anton Du Beke’s deciding vote ended their run.
Shaun Wright-Phillips reflects on his emotional Strictly Come Dancing exit
On It Takes Two, host Ellie Taylor asked Shaun whether he had expected to become so emotionally invested.
“Actually, no. I actually came here just to learn to dance,” he said.
He explained that the emotional connection developed after his first dance-off, when he realised how much he enjoyed taking part.
He also admitted he knew he was going to be in the dance-off last weekend. When asked how it felt to be in the bottom two, Shaun said: “I kind of knew. In my head I kind of knew so mentally I was already preparing myself from that moment.”
Despite the disappointment, Shaun spoke positively about the dancers, backstage team and staff who had helped him feel comfortable.
The elimination also fell on Shaun’s birthday. Writing on Instagram afterwards, he said: “It may be a birthday boot out, but what a journey it’s been!”
He described the experience as something he would cherish for the rest of his life.
Shaun thanked Alexis for helping him reach a standard he had never expected, and for putting up with him throughout.
He also thanked those who voted for him and said he had made friends for life during the competition.
Shaun Wright-Phillips explains his dad’s audience appearance on Strictly
Separately, Shaun rejected suggestions that his father Ian Wright’s appearance in the audience was intended to attract votes.
Former Strictly professional Brendan Cole had described the visit as a publicity stunt.
Speaking to Oddschecker, Shaun said: “I’ve never used Dad for any public vote.”
He explained that his dad wanted to see him at work, while he valued having that support in person.
Strictly Come Dancing continues with Halloween Week
Shaun’s departure makes him the fourth celebrity eliminated, meaning he and Alexis will miss Halloween Week on Saturday, October 31.
Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday, October 31 from 6.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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