This series of Strictly Come Dancing has been memorable for many reasons – Danny Mac’s epic samba, Ed Balls’ Gangnam Style salsa and the fact it’s head judge Len’s last series on the show.
Len has taken part in the series since the show began, back in 2004. Over the years, he’s witnessed some unforgettable performances from the celebrity dancers. However, this week he’s revealed his favourite ever performance – Jill Halfpenny’s jive with professional dancer Darren. In the second series, Jill and Darren danced a jive to I’m Still Standing for their finale performance. The dance was so impressive Jill received 40 points (a full house) from the judges and went onto win the series!
Len said, “This was the first ever routine to score 40 and that’s why it sticks in my mind.” He continued, “it’s like when Roger Bannister ran the first four-minute mile; you always remember the time it happened first.”
Speaking on his new DVD, he added, “this dance also sums up exactly what Strictly is about – somebody coming on this show, working hard with their professional partner and then doing something spectacular like this. It’s Jill Halfpenny’s Jive. Her name might be Halfpenny, but this dance is priceless.”
Len also revealed some of his favourite dances over the years, these included:
Matt Baker’s samba with Aliona Vilani in 2010:
Tom Chamber’s show dance in 2008:
Ricky Whittle’s foxtrot with Natalie Lowe, which Len described as “sheer perfection”:
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The end of Len’s Strictly career is fast approaching, with the Strictly Come Dancing Final 2016 on Saturday 17th December. Within that time there’s no doubt we’re in store for some stellar performances from celebrity hopefuls Danny Mac, Louise Redknapp, Ore Oduba, Claudia Fragapane and Judge Rinder.
Will any of them be able to knock Jill Halfpenny’s jive off the top spot as Len’s favourite EVER Strictly dance? We’ll just have to wait and see!
