TV
Strictly Come Dancing 2023: Jive Jitters could spell swift sendoff for Nikita Kanda
Nikita Kanda is the firm favourite to be the next contestant eliminated from this year’s edition of Strictly Come Dancing on Sunday, with research from William Hill Vegas suggesting her decision to perform the Jive this weekend could contribute to her downfall.
The Jive has been responsible for a significant 14.2% of eliminations from the popular ITV show in the last five series, making it the second riskiest routine in the show, only behind the Samba (21.8%). It’s characterised by its upbeat tempo, sharp kicks, and flicks, making it one of the hardest routines on the Strictly dancefloor:
Whilst the radio presenter is not the only contestant who will be performing the routine this weekend, with Adam Thomas and current outright favourite Nigel Harman also braving the dance, Kanda’s underwhelming scores of 18 across both weeks so far puts her in a precarious position ahead of Sunday’s second elimination.
Contestants often struggle to maintain the required energy levels throughout the performance, with Matt Goss (S20), Adam Peaty (S19) and Ellie Taylor (S20) falling victim to its complexity. Kanda will therefore need to work on her cardiovascular endurance, precision, and timing to avoid falling into the Jive’s elimination trap, and is the firm 1/2 favourite to be eliminated this weekend.
With last week’s blog predicting Les Dennis as the first contestant to be eliminated despite only being the third favourite for the chop, it may be that the choice in dance routines hold more significance than originally perceived.
We take a look at the other two riskiest dances below:
The Samba: A Carnival of Complexity
Eliminations in the past five series: 11 (20%)
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 contributed to the downfall of the likes of Alex Scott (S17), Jacqui Smith (S18) and, in this season, Les Dennis.
This week, Bobby Brazier will see whether he has the ability to master the unique bounce action and maintain the party-like atmosphere while executing technically demanding moves. He is however 200/1 to be the next contestant eliminated, suggesting he may have what it takes to defy the Samba’s daunting history.
The Cha-Cha-Cha: Precision and Timing are Key
Eliminations in the last five series: 7 (12.7%)
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.
Angela Rippon and partner Kai Widdrington will be braving the Cuban dance this Saturday, and are 150/1 to be the second pair eliminated on Sunday.
Whichever way this weekend’s elimination pans out, we should be in for a treat…
