Strictly Come Dancing Fans Express Outrage Over Judges’ Harsh Critiques and Casting Decisions as Season Tensions Rise

Fans Defend Karen Carney After Judges Ignore Health Struggles

One of the most discussed moments this week came after judges criticized former England footballer Karen Carney’s tango performance. Viewers were quick to rally behind her online when it emerged that she suffers from Scheuermann’s disease—a spinal condition that affects posture and flexibility.

Many fans accused the judges, particularly Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke, of showing a lack of empathy by marking Carney harshly despite her evident effort. Some argued that the show should celebrate her resilience rather than penalize her for physical limitations.

Public reaction summary:

Casting Debate: Should Experienced Dancers Compete?

Another hot topic dividing Strictly Come Dancing Fans is the inclusion of celebrities with professional dance or stage backgrounds. Dancer Nadiya Bychkova recently criticized the trend, saying the competition should be reserved for those who have never performed professionally.

West End performer Amber Davies and actor Lewis Cope—who once starred in Billy Elliot—have both been targeted by claims of having an “unfair advantage.” Davies, however, defended her participation, saying musical theatre and ballroom dance are “worlds apart.”

This debate has reignited long-standing questions about the show’s fairness and whether producers should draw clearer lines between professional and amateur contestants.

Most-discussed contestants with prior experience:

• Amber Davies: West End performer with dance training.

• Lewis Cope: Former child actor in Billy Elliot.

• Nadiya Bychkova: Questioned the fairness of mixing experience levels.

Strictly’s Image Under Scrutiny Amid Scandal and Fan Fatigue

Beyond the dance floor, Strictly Come Dancing continues to face scrutiny for off-screen issues. Longtime viewers have voiced concerns that the program’s charm is being diluted by repeated controversies. Reports of backstage tension, past misconduct investigations, and divisive casting choices have fueled what some are calling “Strictly fatigue.”

A particular flashpoint this season is businessman and television personality Thomas Skinner. His political statements and past behavior have divided fans—some defending him as refreshingly authentic, while others argue his presence undermines the show’s inclusive reputation.

Production Mistakes Add to Viewer Frustrations

Adding to the criticism, fans also noticed several production errors during the recent live broadcast. Hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly were not properly introduced at the start of the show, an unusual mistake for such a polished production.

Moreover, rumors spread among Strictly Come Dancing Fans suggesting that producers might be manipulating the narrative against Skinner, possibly setting him up for an early elimination. However, insiders insist that all contestants are treated fairly and that Skinner enjoys genuine support from fellow participants.

Recent production slip-ups spotted by fans:

Can Strictly Rebuild Trust With Its Loyal Audience?

Despite the growing criticism, Strictly Come Dancing remains one of the UK’s most beloved TV institutions. The passionate fanbase continues to engage with every episode, debating judges’ scores and predicting outcomes with enthusiasm.

Still, the ongoing controversies suggest that fans now expect more transparency, compassion, and consistency from both the judges and the show’s producers. Whether this season becomes remembered for its standout performances or for its behind-the-scenes turmoil will depend largely on how the BBC responds to the voices of its devoted audience.