Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell dazzled audiences with their semi-final performances on BBC Strictly Come Dancing, continuing to be a hit with fans since the start of the show in September.
The pair have consistently impressed viewers and judges alike, now finding themselves on the cusp of the much-anticipated grand finale where the next Glitterball trophy winner will be decided.
An emotional moment came after their second act of the night, a Charleston to When You’re Smiling by The Blue Vipers of Brooklyn, which left pro dancer Dianne Buswell in tears.
They concluded the evening with an unconventional Viennese Waltz set to Metallica’s Nothing Else Matters, blending heavy metal with classic ballroom elegance, reports the Mirror.
Post-performance, a tearful Dianne hugged Chris, expressing her pride with the words: “I’m so proud of you.”
Judge Shirley Ballas commended their efforts, remarking: “Some beautiful footwork, when she went between your legs it was seamless, it was just stunning you should be so proud of yourself.”
Anton Du Beke also offered high praise, saying: “It was super duper, your movement was exemplary, you move like nobody else in the show. You’re an inspiration.”
Despite a less favourable critique of their initial dance, Craig Revel Horwood was moved, stating: “Magical darling, very emotional.”
Motsi Mabuse echoed Craig’s sentiments, adding: “The change of atmosphere brought us back down, doing your thing… It’s just very beautiful to see from the outside.”
While speaking to Claudia Winkleman, the Liverpool-born comedian emotionally revealed: “I’m an emotional wreck tonight.”
This heartfelt moment occurred just before receiving an impressive score of 36, with each judge awarding a generous 9.
Social media users were equally touched, as they witnessed professional dancers also wiping away tears, the the Liverpool Echo reports.
A tweet from a viewer read: “Seeing all the pros crying at Chris and Dianne is giving me all the feels #strictly.” (sic)
Another heartfelt message urged: “all of the pros crying omg- GET CHRIS AND DIANNE TO THE FINAL. RIGHT NOW. NO ONE DESERVES IT MORE.” (sic)
Sentiments were shared among TV audiences following the couple’s Viennese Waltz, as someone else enthused: “Sat here crying at Chris and Dianne! if anyone deserves the final it’s those two! ! I couldn’t be more proud.” (sic)
And another comment said: “Anyone else crying after that from ? ? What an inspiration Chris has been throughout this series, it’s an honour to watch.” (sic)
With the public vote on the horizon, Chris and Dianne find themselves in fourth place according to the judges’ scores, while anticipation builds toward next Saturday’s thrilling finale.
Strictly Come Dancing: The Results airs tomorrow at 7.20pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.