Strictly 2023: Samba curse likely to spell end for Krishnan Guru-Murthy

Research from William Hill Vegas has identified Krishnan Guru-Murthy as the likeliest next casualty from this year’s edition of Strictly Come Dancing, with the Channel 4 presenter set to try and overcome the dreaded Samba curse when he takes to the Ballroom this weekend.    

The Samba, notorious for its complexity, has contributed to a whopping 21.3% of eliminations over the past six series – including Les Dennis and Eddie Kadi in this year’s edition – solidifying its status as the most perilous routine out of the available dances ahead of the Jive (14.7%) and the Cha-Cha-Cha (11.4%):

Krishnan is not the only contestant who will be performing the Brazilian routine this weekend, with Annabel Croft also attempting to conquer the Ballroom curse, though Krishnan’s underwhelming score of 29 in last week’s show has earned him the unwanted favourite tag to be eliminated next, currently trading at 10/11 to depart the show on Sunday.

Should Krishnan and dance partner Lauren Oakley survive week eight, then the Samba curse will likely spread its wings and cast an ominous shadow over the aforementioned Annabel (9/4), placing her in grave danger of becoming the seventh contestant eliminated from the show.

We explore the three trickiest routines below:

The Samba: A Carnival of Complexity

Eliminations in the past five series: 13 (21.3%)

The Samba is often described as a carnival on the dancefloor, with its vibrant and energetic movements. However, this dance is also notorious for its complexity. It requires precise hip action, intricate footwork, and a strong connection between the partners. The fast-paced rhythm, coupled with quick changes in direction, leaves little room for error, and has already contributed to the downfall of Les Dennis and Eddie Kadi in the 2023 series.

Both Krishnan and Annabel may find it challenging to master the unique bounce action and maintain the party-like atmosphere while executing technically demanding moves, and are 10/11 and 9/4 respectively to be eliminated this weekend.

The Jive: A Test of Speed and Stamina

Eliminations in the past five series: 9 (14.7%)

The Jive is a dance that demands both speed and stamina. It’s characterised by its upbeat tempo, sharp kicks, and flicks, making it one of the riskiest routines on the Strictly dancefloor. Contestants often struggle to maintain the required energy levels throughout the performance, with Nikita Kanda a notable casualty from the current series in Week Three.

The Cha-Cha-Cha: Precision and Timing are Key

Eliminations in the last five series: 7 (11.4%)

The Cha-Cha-Cha is all about precision and timing. The quick syncopated steps and hip action require contestants to be in sync with their partners and the music. Any misstep or hesitation can be glaringly obvious and lead to elimination – as Lee Ryan (S16), Catherine Tyldesley (S17) and Kym Marsh (S20) all found out.

Whichever way this weekend’s elimination pans out, we should be in for a treat…