Alex Kingston, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in Doctor Who and ER, became the eighth celebrity to exit Strictly Come Dancing, finishing in sixth place. Following her departure, fans have speculated that her exit was influenced more by health concerns than by her dance performance.
During the latest episode, Kingston faced off against Balvinder Sopal, a star from the popular soap opera EastEnders. Despite a performance that some viewers deemed superior, she was ultimately chosen to leave the competition by the judges. The decision was not unanimous; judge Shirley Ballas cast the deciding vote after judge Anton du Beke opted to save Kingston for the quarter-finals. Despite her commitment and talent, Ballas decided to save Sopal, citing an improvement in Sopal’s performance.
Many viewers took to social media platform X to express their concerns about Kingston’s health, suggesting her physical condition played a significant role in her elimination. One fan remarked, “Definitely best outcome as can’t see how #AlexKingston would have been okay for next weekend as clearly struggling and looks in pain with upper thigh area.” Another commented, “Alex was limping and probably shouldn’t have been allowed to dance — but she was clearly dosed the [expletive] up by the time they got to the dance-off. She was SO much better.”
Observations from the live show reinforced concerns about Kingston’s health, with multiple fans noting her visible struggle. One viewer stated, “I can’t help feeling Alex gracefully stepped aside on this episode. She’s lovely but exhausted. I’m not buying the judges’ vote. She was the better dancer in the dance-off.” Another supporter expressed disappointment, saying, “Absolutely gutted for Alex. I genuinely thought that she could win this hands down. She was clearly in a great deal of pain and not a word of complaint. What an absolute pro.”
Health Struggles and Dance Journey
Kingston has openly discussed her physical challenges throughout the competition. Last year, she battled cancer and her daughter revealed she danced with a broken rib during the Blackpool stage of the show. During a recent episode, Kingston spoke candidly about the physical toll of the competition, stating, “It’s never really discussed when you’re at the sharp end how your bodies are really suffering.” She added, “My 62-year-old self is saying, ‘What are you putting me through?’ But my spirit and my soul are going (fingers in ears) I don’t want to know, I want to keep dancing.”
Following her elimination, Kingston reflected on her journey in the competition. “I never in my wildest dreams imagined I would last this long, and it’s been just the most incredible experience,” she said. She credited her partner, Johannes Radebe, for his support, describing him as “a friend for life.”
As fans continue to rally around Kingston, it is clear that her contributions to the show extended beyond her dancing ability, resonating with many who appreciate her determination and resilience in the face of adversity.
