Mike Bushell’s time on Strictly Come Dancing has finally come to an end as the BBC Breakfast presenter found himself in his fourth and final dance off this evening. After the judges scores were combined with the viewers votes, Mike and Katya Jones were revealed to be in the dreaded dance off alongside Michelle Visage and Giovanni Pernice.
Last night Michelle finished the evening second on the leaderboard while Mike was given the lowest overall mark by the judges.
Dancing for their chance to strut their stuff at Blackpool, Mike and Katya performed their Paso Doble for a second time and Michelle and Giovanni performed their American Smooth.
After both couples had danced, the judges unanimously voted to save Michelle and decided to send Mike home.
Explaining her decision, Motsi said: “I honestly have to say I have seen the best performance from most couples.
“I really, really mean that but one couple was the clear winner of the dance off and I am going to save Michelle and Giovanni.”
Bruno added: “Well with all due respect to all of you, I have to save the couple that really performed to the highest standard and to me that couple is Michelle and Giovanni.”
When asked about his time on the show by Tess Daly, Mike confessed Katya has “performed miracles” on him.
He said: “I have had the most amazing 9 or 10 weeks since we started training. I have lost a stone and a half.
“I’m a guy in his 50s, I’m mentally sharper, I feel able to deal with pressured situations – thanks to the dance-offs!
“It has changed me completely and honestly. I’m not going to stop dancing. My wife Emily has supported me all the way through and my daughters.”
“Every moment has been an absolute honour and a joy,” he added. “I didn’t think I’d get this far so I have already booked a hotel in Blackpool, so I’m still coming along.”
The BBC Breakfast presenter went on to praise his professional partner for transforming him into a dancer.
Mike remarked: “This amazing teacher, Katya, I can’t tell you the dedication that she puts in.
“She’d make the greatest sporting coach ever, she makes you believe that anything is possible.
“She hasn’t taken it easy on me, we’ve had some difficult routines and I can’t believe the miracles you’ve performed. There’s so many memories.”
Katya added: “Honestly I’m so proud of him and I think after even this dance which I think was your best dance you can leave with your head held up honestly and in my eyes you’re the winner.
“The only thing he has lost is weight. He came in every single day giving his heart, soul, everything, 200 per cent no matter what after every single dance off and thank you so much.”
“I’m so sorry I couldn’t take to Blackpool,” Katya remarked.
Tonight’s results show kicked off with a Remembrance Sunday inspired group dance followed by a performance from Hollywood actor Luke Evans later on in the evening.
Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday on BBC One at 7.05pm.
