Zara McDermott became the latest celebrity to leave the dancing competition (Picture: BBC)
A fifth celebrity has been eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing following a face-off which was commended by judges for its plethora of ‘fighting spirit’ from both couples involved.
Former Love Island star Zara McDermott and her ballroom partner Graziano Di Prima lost their chance to lift the Glitterball trophy later this year after their Charleston number to Jeepers Creepers – by Al Donahue and his Orchestra – failed to impress the panel on Sunday’s pre-recorded BBC One show.
Zara, 26, received a total of 25 points from the judges on Saturday and faced Waterloo Road’s Adam Thomas and Luba Mushtuk in the dance-off following a public vote.
The reality star and girlfriend of Made in Chelsea’s Sam Thompson had come back triumphant from two previous elimination rounds but was unable to snatch victory for a third time.
Adam and Luba’s American smooth dance to Magic Moments by Perry Como had received a total score of 32 points from the judges.
Following the couples second performance, judge Craig Revel Horwood said: ‘For me one couple did remarkably well and nailed that routine. That couple is Adam and Luba.’
The pair left the show after the Halloween special (Picture: PA)
The star was emotional to end her Strictly journey (Picture: PA)
Motsi Mabuse made the same decision, nevertheless praising both couples for their routines.
‘Well I feel there was definitely a fighting spirit from both couples, I think both couples improved remarkably, they were both stunning,’ she said.
Both Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas chose to save Adam and his partner as well.
Zara express on her exit from the show: ‘I have had the time of my life. Just to be here is incredible. Thank you to the judges and my amazing partner obviously.
‘My fellow contestants are just incredible. It has been the most amazing experience. I can’t believe it’s over but I am going to be here in spirit every week supporting them.’
Graziano told his dance partner that he was ‘so proud’ of her and said she is what Strictly ‘is all about’.
He explained: ‘She has been great for me 8am till 9pm. Never stopping, asking just for a half an hour break.
‘She is literally what Strictly is all about. A real novice, coming in, putting all the hard job.
Zara initially found fame on Love Island (Picture: PA)
‘You have such a good soul. You are so humble and I say thank you that I found a friend like you. I have learnt so much from you. And your hard work within six weeks.
‘You have never danced before. I am so proud of you. So proud of you honestly.’
The eliminated pair will be be joining former Strictly star Fleur East on Strictly It Takes Two on Monday at 6.30pm on BBC Two.
The results show included a performance from Rick Astley with his new single Forever And More and professional dancers doubled down on the Halloween theme with a Wednesday Addams inspired routine.
Strictly Come Dancing returns on Saturday November 4 at 7.05pm on BBC One.
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