Celebrities can get away with a certain amount on Strictly by adding comedy elements or a cheeky grin, but those “triers” are often exposed by the more serious dances – unless, like John Sergeant’s infamous paso doble, their playing it straight is itself hilarious. This week’s eliminated contestant, Mike Bushell, couldn’t repeat the feat in his paso: though partner Katya Jones choreographed a dramatic piece, it still showed up technical failures like his lack of fluidity in transitions between steps, and shaping that aimed for flamenco and came out more like scarecrow.

Read my full Telegraph article here