Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe has shared insights into the challenging week he’s experienced after the recent outcome on the BBC show. On Sunday night’s episode, audiences witnessed Johannes and his celebrity partner Montell Douglas in the dance-off.
Even with a commendable judge’s score of 37, Olympic sensation Montell ended up in the dreaded bottom two once more, this time pitted against Jamie Borthwick and Michelle Tsiakkas. Ultimately, the quartet of judges unanimously chose to save Montell and Johannes, propelling them into Musicals Week.
Nevertheless, while discussing the results on Wednesday’s Loose Women, Johannes admitted that it has been a tough period. He disclosed: “I’m going to be honest, I have been a blubbering mess, for the past three dance-offs and this woman here has been like, ‘It’s not over!”
Panelist Coleen Nolan probed about his emotional state, asking: “What is that Johannes? Is that because as her trainer you somehow feel you’ve let her down?”
The Strictly professional acknowledged the sentiment, stating: “You’ve let her down, yeah. This is not my first rodeo I’ve never pushed somebody like I’ve pushed Montell. But it’s not that, it’s how she’s pushed me as a trainer.”
Johannes went on to say that during practices, it was Montell driving him to put in more effort, marking a first in his career. He further expressed: “That is why, so I believe with every fibre in my being that I’ve got a champion in my hands. That is lovely.”
Christine Lampard broached the subject of Montell’s repeated appearances in the dreaded dance-off, asking if prior experience made it any easier to handle. Montell responded: “It does I think, It never gets easier. I don’t think it’s easier but I definitely think mindset for sure comes in straight away. He (Johannes) always jokes that I’m coaching him on the dance-off! I’m like, ‘We’ve got this’.
Despite Montell and Johannes managing to stay another week in the contest, it was curtains for Jamie and his dance partner Michelle Tsiakkas.The pair, who scored a total of 32 for their performance, failed to win over the four judges and were shown the door after reprising their routine, reports the Mirror.
Reflecting on his time on the show, the soap actor had nothing but commendations, stating: “Strictly is magic. That is all I can say. Strictly is magic. Not just everyone who you see in front of the camera, these four here – the judges, but everyone who works on this show.
“I have such a good bond and relationship with and that’s what made me want to do this show, it’s the people, not what I’m doing. I’ve had the best time.I could ramble on all day about this one [Michelle]. She’s a new pro and she’s absolutely been the most amazing teacher. We have laughed like you wouldn’t believe. I have nothing but the utmost respect for everyone on the show, so thank you.”
Echoing his sentiments, Michelle chimed in: “I just want to say it goes without saying Jamie is an amazing dancer, and he’s improved so much week by week. He’s worked so hard to get to where he is.
“It’s my first year with a partner and I’ve realised that it’s so much more than just the dancing and the technique, it’s the bonds and the friendships that you make. I waited two years for a partner and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.”
Strictly Come Dancing returns next Saturday evening at 7.05pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.