The glittering prize of a performance at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom is now within touching distance for the remaining celebrities on Strictly Come Dancing 2025. As the competition enters its eighth live weekend, the pressure is mounting for the eight surviving professional and celebrity pairings.
The Leaderboard and Last Week's Drama
The race for the top is incredibly tight. Last week, Vicky Pattison dazzled the judges, earning a spectacular 39 points and claiming the top spot on the leaderboard. Hot on her heels was Amber Davies with an impressive 38 points. The competition, however, saw the departure of Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, the Gladiators star, who was eliminated after a dance-off against drag queen La Voix, who successfully fought for her place.
With the midway point of the contest now firmly behind them, the stakes are higher than ever. The annual pilgrimage north to the fabled Blackpool Tower Ballroom is the ultimate goal for every contestant, and tonight's performances at Elstree Studios are the critical qualifying round for that seaside spectacular.
How the Blackpool Dream Becomes Reality
The path to Blackpool is not decided by the judges' scores alone. Tonight's scores will be combined with the results of the public vote. This combination will determine the bottom two couples, who must then dance for survival in Sunday night's results show. Could there be a shocking exit before the sparkly bus even leaves for the coast?
The live show begins at 6.30pm on BBC One, with liveblog coverage starting from 6pm. This will include all the essential build-up, rolling coverage of the dances, expert analysis, immediate reaction, and the usual ballroom backchat.
So, get ready to pack your imaginary overnight bag with your most spangly disco attire and settle in for an unmissable evening of high-stakes entertainment. The battle for Blackpool is officially on.
