The Christmas special of *Strictly Come Dancing* delivered a genuine surprise, and Scarlett Moffatt was at the heart of it. Her electrifying Cha Cha wasn't just a festive flourish; it was a performance that genuinely captivated the studio audience, a carefully saved triumph for the finale.
Before the broadcast, whispers of a “fix” circulated, quickly dismissed as the special’s lighthearted nature became apparent. But Scarlett’s dance transcended the usual holiday cheer, injecting a spark of real excitement into the evening.
EastEnders actor Nicholas Bailey came remarkably close, delivering a smooth and technically impressive Viennese Waltz. Had he been paired with a more upbeat dance style – one that typically ignites viewer votes – he might have posed a serious challenge to Scarlett, finishing just one mark behind her on the judges’ scores.
Bailey’s performance arguably marked him as a standout contender for a future spot on the main *Strictly* series. His skill and grace were undeniable, a testament to his potential.
Comedian Babatunde Aléshé’s Charleston offered a moment of fun, though it lacked lasting impact. Westlife’s Brian McFadden, meanwhile, seemed to acknowledge his musical talents didn’t necessarily translate to the dance floor, content with a simple stage presence.
Singer Melanie Blatt surprised viewers with her unexpected grace, a welcome contrast to the often-underwhelming choreography of her group, All Saints. Gladiators star Jodie Ounsley, competing so soon after the loss of her father, poured her heart and soul into a powerful Street Commercial routine.
In a television landscape often lacking in genuine highlights, Scarlett’s performance shone brightly. It was a moment of pure entertainment, a welcome distraction during the holiday season.
However, a move to the regular *Strictly* series could have exposed Scarlett to a darker side of the competition. The public’s relentless scrutiny and harsh judgment of any perceived dance experience is well-documented.
This year, Love Island’s Amber Davies faced appalling online abuse simply for being a naturally gifted dancer. The vitriol highlighted a disturbing trend: punishing contestants for their skill and dedication.
Scarlett, while beloved for her humor and personality, possesses a hidden talent that could easily make her a target. Unlike Davies, she’s largely kept her dance abilities under wraps, but that wouldn’t shield her from the inevitable backlash.
Despite the risk, the studio audience recognized Scarlett’s talent, crowning her the Christmas champion. Their judgment proved wiser than the often-unpredictable whims of the general public.
The recent series demonstrated the public’s fallibility in voting. Lewis Cope, arguably one of the most skilled dancers the show has ever seen, was eliminated long before the semi-finals – a shocking upset that many considered a robbery.
Scarlett could easily suffer the same fate, excelling throughout a series only to be unfairly ousted by online negativity. The potential for disappointment is heartbreaking, given her obvious potential.
The Christmas champion has a proven track record of success on the main show, with EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick making it to week ten after winning the 2023 special. But Amber Davies’ experience serves as a stark warning.
She reached the final, but only after surviving three undeserved dance-offs, a testament to her resilience and a chilling reminder of the abuse she endured. A strong support system, and perhaps a therapist, were essential to navigate that ordeal.
Karen Carney’s victory in a previous series, despite her own history of dance training, highlighted the public’s complex and often contradictory views on experience. Even a hint of prior training can be met with hostility.
Like Carney, Scarlett’s winning personality might help her maintain public support, even if her dance background comes to light. But given the unhinged reactions to past contestants, it’s a risk that may not be worth taking.
Ultimately, Scarlett’s performance sparked a desire to see more of her dancing. With dedicated training, she could become an exceptional talent, a star capable of captivating audiences for years to come.
