Johannes Radebe explains why he and Montell couldn’t celebrate their progression due to Sam and Nikita.

Strictly star Johannes Radebe reflects on the emotional toll of the recent dance-off, revealing why he and partner Montell Douglas found it difficult to celebrate their continued presence in the competition. The duo faced elimination against Sam Quek and pro dancer Nikita Kuzmin, but ultimately, the judges decided to send Sam and Nikita home during Sunday’s results show.

In an appearance on It Takes Two, Johannes expressed the somber atmosphere surrounding their survival. He emphasized that it felt “really sad” to see the couple leave the competition, noting Montell’s response in the moment: “When [the judges] saved us, we couldn’t celebrate in that moment because Montell was like, ‘Nikita and Sam.'”

Johannes affirmed his respect for Nikita and Sam’s journey this season, stating, “I truly believe Nikita and Sam came a long way this season. It was sad. It was really, really sad. But we are glad we’re still in the competition.”

The decision sparked outrage among some viewers, who were taken aback by the outcome of the dance-off. Many believed that Pete Wicks and Wynne Evans deserved to be in the bottom two instead. One viewer expressed their frustration on social media, stating, “Right decision in the dance-off, wrong decision for the bottom two in the first place.” Another chimed in, “WRONG couples in the dance-off. It should have been Pete and Wynne! Favoritism and tactical voting.”

Following their reprieve, Johannes took to social media to share his feelings about being in the dance-off, describing it as an arduous experience that casts a shadow on the fun they had dancing together: “Being in the dance-off is pretty awful when you suddenly realize the fun time dancing and laughing might be cut short with your new beautiful friend, who you’ve become obsessed with… it’s a horrendous feeling.”

Montell echoed this sentiment, thanking Johannes for his support throughout their journey. He said, “Followed by a tough results show to push us even more, as always it was Johannes’ support that kept me going.” The bond they’ve formed through their shared experiences was evident as Montell added, “The fight and love we have for this journey kept us in another week and I am so proud of how far we have come in the ballroom.”

As audiences continue to debate the results, the duo remains focused on their journey in Strictly and what lies ahead. What are your thoughts on the recent dance-off results? Share your opinions on social media.