This week witnessed a heartfelt moment as Pete Wicks and Jowita Przystal hit the dance floor with their emotive Couple's Choice routine to Tina Turner's Simply The Best, which Pete dedicated to his beloved nan.
Prior to their performance, viewers saw a VT where Pete spoke candidly about the special bond he shared with his grandmother, a sentiment that was palpably translated into their dance.
After taking to the stage and delivering their piece, an emotional Pete stood alongside host Tess Daly as the judges prepared to deliver their verdicts. It was clear for all to see that Pete was overwhelmed, his lip quivering especially when Shirley Ballas confessed she needed to compose herself before offering critique.
Later on, while conversing with Claudia Winkleman, Pete disclosed "it had been a difficult week", while partner Jowita offered comfort with a supportive embrace.
Their stirring performance was met with acclaim, securing top marks from the panel, including a perfect score of 10 from Shirley, which once more stirred Pete's emotions, reports the Express.
The response wasn't just confined to the studio audience; social media too erupted with praise. A touched viewer expressed their feelings on X: "That was absolutely beautiful Pete and Jowita! Felt the emotion #Strictly."
Others chimed in with similar sentiments, one remarking: "Wow loved Pete's dance so emotional bless him #strictly," and another stating: "I really don't know anything about dancing, but I know what I like and I loved Pete and Jowita. #strictly."
In anticipation of tonight's live show, body language and behavioural specialist Darren Stanton had signalled out Wynne Evans and Chris McCausland as the potential pair to land in the next bottom two showdown.
Representing Betfair Slots, the spokesperson gave insight into Wynne's situation with the observation: "With Wynne and Katya, they have a very unique relationship. They do have a very strong dynamic, and their rapport is no doubt good - they are both perfectionists. They have strong eye contact but I've noticed at times when they get feedback from judges, Wynne can be ever so slightly separate, as if he's taking it upon himself, and the ego is kicking in.
He expressed concern that Wynne might be isolating himself: "I think he sometimes sees himself as more of a single entity rather than being part of a team, he can be quite vocal with the judges. I'm not seeing the same degree of them being tactile, or great eye contact, and we're not seeing a very strong rapport demonstrated between them, and I think they could be at risk of going home this weekend."
Meanwhile, Darren was less optimistic about Chris's chances, pointing out: "For Chris and Dianne, I think they have reached the stage in the competition where it's gone beyond judges being able to look past mistakes, with technical ability, rapport and connection the most important. Although Chris has done miraculously well throughout the competition, I think this week may be his time to go. He will struggle as the demands become more technical."