Just hours before Strictly Come Dancing hits our screens tonight, it has been revealed four stars are favourites to be eliminated from the BBC show - showing the competition has never been tougher.
Actor Shayne Ward, 40, has been named as the first star to potentially face the chop, closely followed by Olympian Sam Quek, Wynne Evans and JLS star JB Gill. According to Ladbroke, Shayne has odds of 6/4, Wynne has odds of 7/2, Sam Quek comes in at 4/1 and JB Gill has odds of 5/1.
But one star who appears to be safe according to the gambling company, is Chris McCausland with odds of 150/1 to be booted off the show. Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: "Shayne Ward leads the way in the elimination betting after a shaky couple of performances, but four names are in huge danger of a shock exit this weekend, with Wynne, Sam and JB also being at risk."
For the first time this week, JB will be dancing with another professional dancer, Lauren Oakley after Amy Dowden was forced to take time off following her collapse backstage, last weekend. The professional dancer attributed her collapse on the "tough" training schedule of the show to compete with the high standard of celebrities this year.
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BBC)Ahead of this week's show, Amy issued a message of support to JB and Lauren. She said: "Wishing these two the absolute best of luck tonight! I’m going to be your biggest cheerleader!" And speaking to Lauren, she added: "JB it says everything how you’ve been able to adapt to a new professional, produce such a great number ( so excited for everyone to see) whilst supporting me! I’m so lucky! You’re a STAR! I know what tonight means to you! Thank you!"
She continued: "Thank you, I knew Jay would be in safe hands and have a fabulous time with you! You know I’ve always adored your dancing since I ran up to you in Blackpool tower at 8 years old to tell you! Thank you darling!" Amy's post came after she made an appearance on It Takes Two on Friday to discuss her health scare. Speaking of her recovery, Amy told viewers: "I’m feeling so much better and I’d just like to thank everyone for all the love and support I’ve received and to my Strictly family – feeling much better."
JB and Lauren will be performing to a Bruno Mars song. "I’m just so proud and so grateful for Lauren," said Amy. "They’ve worked so hard, and JB’s just been so supportive of me and just knuckled down." JB and Lauren had been keeping Amy updated on their progress over the past week by sending her "videos and messages" on their WhatsApp group.
Former pro dancer Janette Manrara who is now hosting the BBC spin-off show, said it was a pleasure to see Amy "looking well." A BBC spokesperson previously said: "We are all hopeful that Amy will be back to dance with JB next week."
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