Dani Dyer has delivered one of her strongest performances yet on Strictly Come Dancing, earning widespread praise alongside professional dance partner Nikita Kuzmin and securing the top spot on the leaderboard.
The reality television star impressed the judges with a stunning American Smooth during Saturday night’s show on November 7. Dancing to Harry Connick Jr.’s version of It Had to Be You, the couple brought Hollywood glamour to the ballroom with an elegant routine featuring beautiful lifts, flowing movements and plenty of showbiz sparkle.
Their performance also included a memorable entrance as Dani and Nikita slid down the bannisters onto the dancefloor, immediately capturing the audience’s attention.
The judges were clearly impressed. Motsi Mabuse awarded the pair a perfect 10, while Shirley Ballas praised Dani’s performance and told her she should be exceptionally proud of herself. Anton Du Beke also loved the routine’s pizzazz and theatrical quality, while Craig Revel Horwood described it as a classic American Smooth.
The couple received an impressive total of 36 points out of 40, giving Dani her first perfect 10 of the series and placing them at the top of the Week Seven leaderboard.
Meanwhile, the programme’s presenters also addressed the absence of fellow contestant Jaime Winstone. The actress was forced to miss this week’s live performance after suffering a torn abdominal muscle during rehearsals.
Jaime had been advised by doctors to rest completely and was granted a bye into the following week alongside professional partner Carlos Gu. She expressed her disappointment at missing the show but thanked viewers for their support.
Despite Jaime’s absence, the remaining contestants faced another crucial night as the competition moved closer to its highly anticipated Blackpool special.
For Dani and Nikita, however, the evening marked a major breakthrough. Their impressive performance has strengthened their position in the competition and demonstrated just how much Dani has progressed throughout the series.
