Strictly star makes emotional admission as he's voted off show

A Strictly Come Dancing favourite shared a poignant reflection as he departed the dance floor this weekend. Sadly, the curtain closed for EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick and his professional partner Michelle Tsiakkas in the latest round of eliminations.

The duo found themselves in the dreaded dance-off against Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe. Both pairs performed once more, with Montell and Johannes reprising their Quickstep to Ella Fitzgerald's 'Get Happy', while Jamie and Michelle gave their Foxtrot to Ben E.

King’s 'Stand By Me' another whirl in hopes of advancing. Judge Craig Revel Horwood was first to deliver his judgment, opting to save Montell and Johannes, a sentiment echoed by both Motsi Mabuse and Anton du Beke.

Shirley, although her vote was not needed, expressed she would have concurred.

After the verdict, Jamie shared his heartfelt feelings about his journey on Strictly: "Strictly is magic. That is all I can say. Strictly is magic. Not just everyone who you see in front of the camera, these four here - the judges, but everyone who works on this show.", reports the Mirror.

He continued appreciatively, "I have such a good bond and relationship with and that's what made me want to do this show, it's the people, not what I'm doing. I've had the best time. I could ramble on all day about this one [Michelle]. She's a new pro and she's absolutely been the most amazing teacher. We have laughed like you wouldn't believe. I have nothing but the utmost respect for everyone on the show, so thank you."

Michelle lavished compliments on Jamie, acknowledging that her experience with him has been incredibly fulfilling despite the long wait. "I just want to say it goes without saying Jamie is an amazing dancer, and he's improved so much week by week. He's worked so hard to get to where he is. It's my first year with a partner and I've realised that it's so much more than just the dancing and the technique, it's the bonds and the friendships that you make. I waited two years for a partner and I wouldn't have had it any other way," she admitted.

Highlighting the Sunday results show, viewers were treated to performances by the Sugababes, who sang a mix of their popular songs including 'Overload', 'Freak Like Me', and 'Push The Button', while the professionals delivered a dance sequence set to Zara Larsson’s 'With Every Heartbeat'.