'Chris McCausland is a phenomenon'

Fans go wild for comic's latest Strictly dance

Chris McCausland returned to the middle of the Strictly leaderboard tonight, after a couple of wobbly weeks.

He went back to his Liverpudlian roots to dance to John Lennon's 1970 hit Instant Karma! (We All Shine On), scoring 33 points out of a possible 40 from judges. It placed them fifth out of the nine couples still in the competition and will secure their place in the Blackpool heat next Saturday.

The comedian and professional partner Dianne Buswell performed their couple's choice dance in all-white outfits, while the routine incorporated a dramatic blackout in reference to McCausland's blindness.

Judge Craig Revel Horwood said: 'That routine belongs in a musical, brilliantly put together, flow missing and lift coming out of that poignant blackout moment was spectacular, I really don’t know how you’re doing this.

Motsi Mabuse said the dance had a 'message that’s bigger than the show, I felt that in my heart, inspiring, loved it'

Shirley Ballas praised 'the most unique partnership I’ve ever seen on any show around the world, adding: 'Dianne teaches you so well and Chris doesn’t miss a bit, a winner in my book'.

Anton Du Beke also called them 'inspirational', adding: 'Dianne deserves a trophy for the professional who’s done the most incredible job, built on trust and togetherness.'

The response from viewers was even more impressed.

One, Linday Robertson, posted on X: 'I’ll never not be impressed by this lad - Chris McCausland is a phenomenon…Dianne is a genius & the blackout…wow really hits home he has no frame of reference for any of these dances.'

Another said: 'Outstanding routine from Chris and Diane. LOVED the lift coming out of the darkness. So much skill, trust, sheer brilliance and inspiration. AMAZING!'

And a third said: 'First time the nerves got to Chris but still an unbelievable routine. He’s not just a brilliant mover, he’s a brilliant dancer and that’s all thanks to Dianne. I love this pairing and I’m continually inspired by Chris '