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Strictly's first eliminated star breaks silence on 'set-up' claims

From the Newshound archive · first published 4 October 2026 · last updated 5 October 2026.

Strictly's first eliminated star breaks silence on 'set-up' claims

Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton has spoken out after frustrated viewers accused BBC producers of a 'lame' set-up following his unanimous elimination from Strictly Come Dancing. Appleton, 43, and professional partner Amy Dowden were voted off Sunday's results show after losing a Movie Week dance-off to actress Jaime Winstone and pro Carlos Gu. All three judging votes went to Winstone, with Craig Revel Horwood confirming he would have agreed had a casting vote been needed.

For the second year running, Dowden has been part of the first pairing to leave the competition, having exited in 2025 alongside Thomas Skinner.

Appleton said the most important thing he takes from the show is 'having a friend in Amy', adding: 'I only wish I did better for her.'

New host Josh Widdicombe also faced a second wave of viewer fury, with some demanding he be removed from the presenting line-up.

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