Strictly Come Dancing: Johnny Ball Dances For The Last Time In First Dance Battle

BBC

Tonight was the first of Strictly Come Dancing’s dance battles. The public votes were in and the bottom two had been decided. The 14 contestants were whittled down to 13 - with the final say being given to the four judges, Len, Craig, Darcey and Bruno.

All of the couples stood there tensely as they waited for tonight’s results. The first safe six couples were called out first "in no particular order". Nicky, Denise, Lisa, Louis, Fearne and Kimberley were the first celebrities to be relieved of the suspense, as they were told they were safe from eviction.

Johnny, and partner Iveta, were the first couple to be told they were in the bottom two. After the news, the judges said how it was a shame as “he did improve” in his performance last night, in comparison to last week’s show. Everyone tried to give him some encouragement by saying “Johnny, do your best”.

On the other hand, the first safe six couples rejoiced and celebrated the fact that they had been saved by the public. Fearne even admitted she was so happy that she accidentally elbowed Louis in the face – don’t harm that beautiful face, Fearne!

After a very entertaining performance from the extremely successful band, Scissor Sisters, the fate of the next seven couples was revealed. Once again, the remaining couples had to endure a lot of suspense as they waited to hear if they had made it through or not. Colin, Victoria, Dani, Sid, Jerry and Michael were put out of their misery as they were told the good news of being saved by the public.

This left the bottom two, with Johnny Ball battling against Richard Arnold. Darcey questioned why Richard was in the bottom two, but did admit that his “technique wasn’t brilliant”.

After both putting on a brilliant performance, the two couples had to face the final decision from the judges. Craig started off the votes by saving Richard and Erin. Darcey and Bruno also agreed with him which meant it was the end of the road for Johnny and partner, Iveta. Len also said after the votes were cast, “I did agree with my colleagues”.

Johnny was not too downhearted, however. He seemed to be very proud of his time on the show, saying “for my age, I did that quite well”. He ended his “very short but very sweet” time on the show with a delightful sweep around the dance floor with Iveta - before being met by all of the fellow couples.

Now we have next week to look forward to, where the couples will once again compete against each other – this time in ‘Strictly does Hollywood’ week. Make sure you do not miss it!

PHOTOS: Denise Van Outen, Dani Harmer and Louis Smith impress the judges in Strictly Come Dancing's second live show