Strictlys Angela Rippon and Kai hit back at criticism over stars slow dances

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Kai Widdrington has rushed to the defence of his partner Angela Rippon after critics claimed slower dances have given her an unfair advantage.

Former newsreader Angela, 79, joined this year’s cast as the show’s oldest ever contestant – but critics of the BBC dance competition have been left far from impressed.

Despite being a favourite amongst many viewers, some social media users have claimed that Angela’s slower routines have given her an advantage over her rivals.

On Monday afternoon, Angela took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and put those claims to bed as she teased her Halloween-themed dance will be “fast and furious”.

Addressing her followers on the platform, the decorated presenter penned: “This is just a short video from @kaiwidd and I. We wanted to take a second to say a proper thank you for all your support over the series so far. We’re having the best time!”

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In the video, Kai fights Angela’s corner as he takes aim at those who have critiqued their performances so far – and promised that this weekend’s routine will be quicker than ever.

“We can’t quite yet tell you what it’s going to be, but we can tell you that it’s going to be fun and fast,” he said.

“Because there were some people saying, ‘Oh, Angela is only doing slow dances.’ Well, let me tell you, this one’s fast.”

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Injerjecting, Angela added: “I haven’t done only slow dances. I mean, I did the Quickstep and the Cha Cha Cha. This week will be fast, furious and a lot of fun.”

Angela and Kai went viral last month after the pair performed the Cha Cha Cha to Pink’s Get The Party Started.

Just over a week before her 79th birthday, Angela left jaws on the floor as she high-kicked her way through the notoriously difficult dance.

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Angela’s career spans more than 50 years, during which she became the first regular female news anchor on the BBC in 1975.

The Rip off Britain presenter was the host of Come Dancing, the forerunner to Strictly, for three years from 1988.

She also danced on The Morecambe & Wise Christmas special in 1976 with Eric and Ernie to the tune of A You’re Adorable (The Alphabet Song).

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