An emotional Balvinder Sopal was embraced by judge Motsi Mabuse on Strictly Come Dancing this weekend, overwhelmed after delivering what fans called a 'magical' performance that earned her highest score of the series.
A Breakthrough Waltz on Musicals Week
During Saturday night's Musicals Special, the EastEnders actress and her professional partner Julian Caillon took to the floor with a Viennese Waltz set to 'Never Enough' from The Greatest Showman. The pair, who have endured a challenging run including surviving a record five dance-offs, finally achieved their standout moment.
The performance captivated the studio audience and judges alike, earning a total of 35 points – their best score to date in the competition. Every judge awarded a nine, with the exception of Craig Revel Horwood who gave a still-respectable eight.
The Emotional Judging and a Comforting Hug
As the critiques began, Balvinder visibly struggled to contain her feelings. Judge Motsi Mabuse addressed her directly, stating: 'Whatever you wanted to say for the last weeks came out through that dance. It must be really demoralising what you have been through in this competition...'
Noticing Balvinder had begun to cry, Motsi halted her feedback. 'Oh now I have to go… I have to give you a hug,' she said, before leaving the judges' desk to comfort the actress with a warm embrace, telling her how proud she was.
Head Judge Shirley Ballas declared: 'You will always be a hero for me. Going through what you go through and coming back to dance that kind of performance… I had chills. It was sensitivity, grace, charm, beauty, determination.' Anton Du Beke described the opening as 'exquisite' and added, 'I think I love you. More than ever now.'
Viewer Reaction and Looking Ahead
The moving scene resonated deeply with viewers at home. On social media platform X, fans flooded with support. One user, SabrinaSpectre, commented: 'I am in tears. Honestly, her strength to come back week after week and then give us that performance – nothing short of magical.'
Another, AutumnBlue44, wrote: 'I’m not crying, you’re crying. No… wait, that is me. One of my favourite dances this season.'
Speaking to host Claudia Winkleman afterwards, an emotional Balvinder said: 'I have waited all competition for that feeling, and I’m so grateful. I’m actually really grateful for what I’ve heard tonight, and it’s just it’s blown my heart to love this and to do justice to that song.'
The couple now progress to the next stage of the competition, which continues on BBC One and iPlayer.
