BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans were completely astonished as comedian Chris McCausland hit the dance floor with a standout performance during Movie Week, even drawing high praise from typically stern judge Craig Revel Horwood.
Following his energetic jive to the Wayne’s World theme alongside professional dance partner Dianne Buswell, Chris, who is visually impaired, was met with an outpouring of support on Twitter.
The judges shared the viewers’ enthusiasm, with Craig, donned in Jack Sparrow garb from Pirates of the Caribbean, heaping accolades by stating: “You’re a dancer” and awarding him seven points.
Craig described the duo’s routine as being “packed full of fantastic rhythm”, leading them to secure a commendable 30 points from the panel of judges.
One audience member posted on social media: “Blimey, who swapped @CraigRevHorwood for a human this week? @chrismccausland #strictly,” reports the Mirror.
Another fan expressed: “Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell are the partnership we never knew we needed; they absolutely fill my heart with joy! #Strictly”.
Someone else commented: “Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell for the win #Strictly Iconic.”
A fourth viewer added: “Every week @chrismccausland and @dbuzz6589 just seem to get better and better! Just incredible #Strictly.”
And yet another tweet read: “I had to watch #Chris again so bloody joyful he’s amazing! @chrismccausland #Strictly.”
Chris’ transformation into Wayne from Wayne’s World sparked a strong resemblance to singer Lewis Capaldi, according to fans. One viewer commented online: “Chris and Dianne were amazing. Honestly I’m so impressed with Chris here I’ve never seen a man who is blind that can dance it is actually brilliant. The costume is amazing. I didn’t recognise Chris here he looks like Lewis Capaldi.”
This year’s series marks two decades of Strictly Come Dancing, following a tumultuous period after contestant Amanda Abbingdon’s early departure and complaints about her treatment off-camera last year. An investigation recently upheld complaints of verbal bullying and harassment, but found no evidence of physical aggression by Pernice.
The latest episode comes after a surprise result in the first dance-off, which saw Olympic champion Tom Dean eliminated despite Toyah Wilcox receiving the lowest judges’ scores.
Strictly Come Dancing is on BBC One on Saturday and Sunday and BBC iPlayer