Strictly Come Dancing judges hint at victory

Viewers spotted a 'telling sign' during Saturday night's show

The judges of Strictly Come Dancing didn't hold back when they made an audacious prediction on Saturday's Movie Week show. In the most recent episode, the EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick and professional partner Michelle Tsiakkas delivered a lively quickstep to the tune 'I'm Still Standing' by Sir Elton John from the film Rocketman.

Jamie, 30, who is famed for his role as Jay Brown on BBC One's hit soap, dazzled audiences by channeling Elton with an impressive costume replete with glitzy sunglasses.

Following their performance, the judges lavished praise on the actor, with Anton Du Beke announcing: "You know, you really are a super super dancer. I think you could be one of the favourites to lift the trophy to be quite honest with you, I think you are an exceptional talent."

Motsi Mabuse concurred, adding: "Yes, Anton, I think the Glitterball is quite close to you! " The remarks from the panel hinted they believe Jamie has what it takes to triumph in the competition, leading presenter Tess Daly to note: "Thank you judges. Two out of four mentioned the Glitterball... that's big news! ".

As for Jamie's reaction to the judges' comments, he said: "It's a bit too early to be mentioning the Glitterball... none the less, I appreciate everything they say! " When it came to scoring, Jamie racked up a total of 30 points, with Craig Revel Horwood awarding an eight, Motsi matching that score, combined with seven points from both Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke. , reports the Mirror.

Strictly Come Dancing fans took to Twitter, now X, to praise Jamie's energetic routine. One fan tweeted: "Jamie really threw himself into that! Well done! #Strictly", while another wrote: "#Strictly Jamie was ACE in that".

A third viewer posted: "LOVED THAT JAMIE BORTHWICK #Strictly", and a fourth added: "Well I loved that! Well done Jamie! #Strictly."#

The episode featured movie-themed performances, complete with elaborate costumes. The show opened with the professional dancers dressed as Minions from the Despicable Me franchise, with Kai Widdrington as Gru and the others in yellow bodysuits.

Unfortunately, DIY SOS star Nick Knowles and his partner Luba Mushtuk were forced to pull out of the show due to an injury, and will receive a bye to next week's show. This comes after Olympian Tom Dean and his partner Nadiya Bychkova became the first pair to leave the competition last weekend.