Quick Read
- Ross King was the second celebrity eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing 2025 after a Movie Week dance-off.
- King and partner Jowita Przystal performed a Paso Doble to ‘Thunderbirds Are Go’, but lost to Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon’s foxtrot.
- Judges unanimously chose to save Sopal and Caillon; King received the lowest score that week.
- King expressed deep gratitude to Przystal and the show, calling his experience unforgettable.
- Thirteen couples remain in the competition, with the next show airing October 18 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Ross King’s Emotional Exit from Strictly Come Dancing 2025
For millions glued to their screens on Sunday night, Strictly Come Dancing’s Movie Week promised spectacle and suspense. Few expected it to end with the dignified farewell of Scottish TV presenter Ross King, who became the second celebrity to leave the show after a dramatic dance-off. His exit, confirmed during the October 12 results show, marked a turning point in the 2025 season, blending emotion, sportsmanship, and the unpredictability that has made Strictly a staple of British entertainment.
Movie Week Dance-Off: Paso Doble vs. Foxtrot
The stage was set for high drama. Ross King and his professional partner, Jowita Przystal, faced Eastenders actor Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon in a nail-biting dance-off. Both couples had delivered their Movie Week routines the previous night, but the Sunday showdown demanded a repeat performance. King and Przystal tackled the fiery Paso Doble to the iconic theme from ‘Thunderbirds Are Go’, while Sopal and Caillon opted for the elegant foxtrot set to ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ from the classic film ‘Swing Time’.
The judges—Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke—were unanimous. Each voted to save Sopal and Caillon. Head judge Shirley Ballas, tasked with casting the deciding vote if needed, confirmed she would have made the same choice. For King, the outcome was not wholly unexpected; Saturday’s live show had seen him receive the lowest score, earning just 19 points.
Reflections and Farewell: King and Przystal’s Partnership
What followed was a masterclass in graciousness. Interviewed by host Tess Daly, Ross King’s gratitude was palpable. “I have loved every single minute of it. I would like to say thank you to everyone who has supported us, all the people who voted – they’ve been amazing,” he said, visibly moved. King’s praise for Przystal was heartfelt: “I want to thank a very special lady who has been with me through it all and has been absolutely everything: she’s been a mentor, teacher, carer. I could not have wished for a better partner, and I could not have wished to be on a better show.”
Przystal, in turn, called King ‘her King’ and expressed hope to remain a part of his life. “Thank you so much for all of your work. For everything you have done during rehearsals. We laugh a lot – but we also cried! Thank you so much, and I hope I’m going to be a little part in your life forever,” she said, echoing the kind of camaraderie Strictly is known for.
Judges’ Perspectives and Audience Response
Despite his departure, King’s journey was acknowledged by the panel. Anton Du Beke described him as “the most improved” contestant of the week—a testament to his dedication. Shirley Ballas commended his commitment: “You gave 1,000 per cent of yourself… this week you can go home and be very proud of what you’ve achieved.” The audience, both in the studio and at home, responded with warmth, many taking to social media to express support and admiration for King’s effort and sportsmanship.
The results show wasn’t all about farewells. The evening featured a vibrant group routine from the Strictly professionals, paying homage to the year’s Minecraft movie, and a moving performance of ‘Reflection’ from Disney’s Mulan by celebrated pianist Lang Lang, accompanied by dancers Nancy Xu and Kai Widdrington. Such interludes reminded viewers that Strictly is as much about artistry and community as competition.
Looking Ahead: The Show Continues
With King’s exit, the competition tightens. Thirteen couples remain, poised to return to the dancefloor on October 18 for the next live show, followed by results on October 19. The show’s schedule remains a fixture of British weekend television, available on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Notably, Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis was absent from Saturday’s episode due to illness, but in accordance with the show’s rules, he and his partner Dianne Buswell will proceed to the next round. Dennis expressed regret on Instagram for missing the performance and assured fans he would return with renewed energy. Buswell addressed rumors regarding his absence, emphasizing the importance of transparency and support within the Strictly family.
The Heart of Strictly: Sportsmanship, Dedication, and Farewell
Ross King’s journey on Strictly Come Dancing 2025 may have ended, but his departure was marked by dignity and genuine connection. From the tension of the dance-off to the emotional exchanges with Przystal and the judges, King’s experience encapsulated the spirit of the show: resilience, growth, and the value of partnership.
As viewers look ahead to the coming weeks, the memory of King’s farewell—his gratitude, humility, and appreciation for the Strictly community—serves as a reminder that beyond the scores and routines, it’s the human stories that resonate most deeply. The dancefloor will see new contenders rise and fall, but the warmth and sportsmanship shown by departing participants like Ross King continue to define the show’s legacy.
Ross King’s exit from Strictly was not just a result, but a moment of connection—reminding us that even in competition, the measure of success is found in resilience, gratitude, and the bonds formed along the way. His journey, marked by improvement and heart, sets a meaningful tone for the rest of the season.