Jamie Borthwick’s Controversial Debut on Strictly Come Dancing

EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick has made headlines with his participation in this year’s season of the popular television dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing. Borthwick, well-known for his portrayal of Jay Brown in the long-running BBC soap EastEnders, faced playful accusations of cheating during the show’s recent broadcast.

The new season of Strictly Come Dancing commenced with its 20th series on September 14, featuring a host of celebrities eager to showcase their dance skills. The show’s familiar hosts, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, along with renowned judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke, have returned to evaluate the performances of the latest group of 15 celebrities. Among these contestants are various public figures including JB Gill, Tasha Ghouri, and Nick Knowles.

During a humorous exchange on the show, host Tess Daly prompted laughter when she noted Jamie Borthwick’s participation in last year’s Strictly Christmas special, to which fellow contestant Wynne Evans humorously accused Borthwick of being a “cheat.” Although the comment was made in jest, it sparked amusement both in the studio and among the viewing audience at home, who took to social media to share their reactions.

Despite the controversy surrounding Borthwick’s involvement, many fans of the show expressed their excitement over its return. The opening of the episode, featuring professional dancers and the hosts performing on a party bus, garnered mixed reviews from viewers. While some found the pre-recorded video entertaining, others took to social media to voice their displeasure with what they deemed “cringe-worthy” acting.

Borthwick expressed enthusiasm about joining the show, citing his enjoyment of participating in the show’s past Christmas special. As he embarks on a new challenge with weekly live performances, Borthwick looks forward to the diverse routines and receiving feedback from the public. The actor’s addition to the Season 20 lineup continues to stir debates among viewers who hold differing opinions on contestants with dance experience.