The Strictly “Journey”

[Theblip]

I can’t argue with Jacqui Smith and Anton being voted off first, as they were the worst couple in terms of dance ability. But I would have liked them to continue many more weeks because Jacqui seems very likeable, to be thoroughly enjoying herself on Strictly, and she may well have had a great “journey” of improvement....like in the good old early years of the show when the celebs nearly all started as non-dancers. Anyone else find it disappointing that in recent years there have been too many already brilliant dancers so that the non-dancers don’t stand a chance? I reckon the BBC decides who it wants to get booted off early, and ensures that happens by giving them the toughest dances, the worst songs to dance to, and the dullest costumes. It’s known as Fixly Come Dancing in our ‘Ouse. Your thoughts?

[Hopkirk]

Surely the rotten dancers have often stayed far too long
Remember John Sergeant, Anne Widdicombe and Ed Balls.

[Mozz71]

I have to agree with Hopkirk. Shed the deadwood early, especially with less contestants this season.

[Mamyalynne]

I agree with Hopkirk, the poorest dancers aren't always the first to go - I also agree with you Blip, Jacqui seemed very personable and it sounded like she got along very well wit the rest of the dancers.

[grumpy01]

Stand by for flak from all the Strictly fans Blip.When ever I have suggested anything similar I have had many criticisms but it makes you wonder why Anton du Beke nearly always gets the less capable dancers.

[JimF]

When did things like this become known as "journeys"? Asking for a friend...

[Mamyalynne]

Since the term was used both on the show and by TV critics I imagine.

I just watch it, enjoy some of the dances,dancers,songs and costumes and others not so much.

I vote on line for my faves and that's it - there my analysis stops.

[Mozz71]

I'll be honest Mamy, I don't bother voting. I just enjoy the show, but often watch it from recorded, so I can skip the filler stuff.

[Mamyalynne]

That's fine, I never quite understand why entertainment is made so tortuous sometimes.

[tonyav]

I wouldn't want to see a good dancer get the boot and a poor dancer ie Jacqui Smith kept in ( I know it has happened in the past ). Makes a mockery of the show imo, doubt if Jacqui would have got much better.

[barry1010]

Anton is past it and has always been a poor choreographer. He has never been able to bring out the best in his partners. From earlier series I remember Jill Halfpenny who was a trained dancer. Nowadays as soon as a celeb signs the contract they have weeks of private dance lessons, and who can blame them?

[brainiac]

I agree about Anton, barry - cannot do any of the Latin dances, and when he tries he looks like an amateur.

[Chinajan]

I think the 'journey' trope started in Big Brother when Brian Dowling won. Then everyone on Pop Idol and X Factor had to have a potentially life-changing experience or a granny who needed to stop working down the pit.

I think the producers do seem to favour certain contestants and certain professionals, to answer the question. I prefer contestants who haven't had dance training prior to being hired for the show.

[emmie]

perhaps some forget Anton is now well into his 50's, what came easily once perhaps doesn't now. apart from last year he almost always gets the lemons.

[emmie]

as to the phrase being on a Journey, i wish they wouldn't use it, it's a bloody irritant.

[Theblip]

Feel free to come up with an alternative to “journey”. Anton also did well with Lesley Garrett in the first series and Katie Derham more recently. But it is high time he is put out to pasture. I can’t see why SCD has kept him on as a pro. For a while he was considered a natural successor to Brucie, but they opted for Claudia to join Tess instead

[emmie]

it's overused now, and i for one would dispense with it altogether.
I think he would have made a good host, and yes he is past his best, someone well into their fifties like Anton cannot hope to compete with guys in their 20's 30's. I like him by the way..