Chris Ramsey second-from-bottom on his Strictly debut

Chris Ramsey started his Strictly Come Dancing adventure tonight - and came almost bottom of the leaderboard.

The comic scored just 13 points from judges for the cha cha he and professional partner Karen Hauer danced to Juice by Lizzo.

Only James Cracknell and Luba Mushtuk scored lower with 11. But luckily in week one, no one is eliminated.

Ramsey admitted he found it 'horrible' to dance in front of so many people

He faced criticism from judges, mixed with a little encouragement.

Bruno Tonioli said: 'I could see the determination, the good intenion, the effort, the total lack of timing. Were you in Hong Kong tine? I have no idea. Added to that it was a case of hip action bypass. 

'Dancing is like comedy; timing is everything. Work on that.'

Craig Revel Horwood added: 'I thought it was awkward if I am honest. Flat footed.  No hip action, as Bruno said, which made it look stompy but there is a saving grace.

'I believe that deep down inside there somewhere - we have not seen it yet - but you have some rhythm, so that is good.'

Motsi Mabuse was more positive, telling Ramsey: You had fun with that. Your face is so expressive and you were like "pow!" If we could have some of that in the body.. if that could move down a bit.'

Finally, Shirley Ballas said: 'I think it had attidue and I'm sure this partnership has chemistry. With hard work anything is possible... I think we will see some great things from you.'

Ramesey's wife Rosie later tweeted support for her husband, saying: 'eriously, for someone who has NEVER danced a day in his life... I think he absolutely smashed it!! Well done @IAmChrisRamsey and @karen_hauer Onwards and upwards!!'

The comedian was also subtly heckled by the subtitles on the BBC show, which misprinted a positive comment by host Tess Daly as: 'I think Karen will make a danceerror of you yet, Chris.'

Published: 21 Sep 2019