Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.From a ‘spexy’ library to Narnia’s wardrobe, there was much more than sequins on the dancefloor tonight.
For week two of Strictly, careful choreography was joined by some colourful, but not always classy context.
While the judges ranked the dances, here are this week’s bold backstories, from worst to best.
Joe McFadden’s Narnia wardrobe
His smile couldn’t save him this week – for some reason Holby City actor Joe McFadden danced a tango to Ed Sheeran’s “Castle on the Hill” after spending a third of the song in his wardrobe. Neither the singer nor the Narnia reference are usually associated with the tango. May it stay that way.
Davood’s pink plaid library
If The Strokes and a quickstep feel like an unsettling match, picture two matching pink plaid library outfits on the Strictly dancefloor. Thankfully you don’t have to, as the garish context is safely behind us now.
The courtroom is no place for a Charleston
Both Susan Calman and Ruth Langsford took on the Charleston this week, and their choice in setting made the differences even stronger. While Calman played out an arduous courtroom scene, Wilson went back to basics with a glittering 1920s Charleston, as judge Bruno exclaimed in awe “I had no idea you were such a good flapper!”.
Debbie McGee’s gliding waterfront waltz
Gliding across the dancefloor, Debbie McGee demonstrated the elegance that comes with owning a home boat, in a simple aquamarine twinkling wonder.
Rev Richard Coles’ long-distance Australian love affair
Channelling partner Dianne Buswell’s Australian roots, rose petals gracefully fell as Coles tackled the American Smooth in an onstage relationship, oceans apart. While the judges were less than impressed with his technical tact, at least his backstory had heart.
“Despacito” fuels Aston Merrygold’s neon festival
While it may have to wait until next summer to see its proper festival run, summer hit “Despacito” made it to the dancefloor in Aston Merrygold’s neon festival-themed salsa. The ex-boyband member certainly knows how to charm his army of young fans – if straying ever so slightly from the traditional Latin dance.
The wild, wild west at its very best
Paralympic gold medallist Jonnie Peacock brought his new blade to the bar in the fast-paced cowboy-themed jive. He takes the prize for best bold setting this week, incorporating a tricky hat trick into his routine showing both sartorial and technical flair. Bonus points for a personalised song, as “Johnny B Goode” cheered him on.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments