Melanie Walters Leaves Strictly Come Dancing After Dance-Off

Melanie Walters has ended her run on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing after losing a dance-off against sports star Shaun Wright-Phillips. The 64-year-old actress became the second celebrity eliminated from the competition, despite Wright-Phillips and his professional partner, Alexis Warr, receiving just 15 points for their quickstep routine. Walters faced the judges after performing a Charleston with professional dance partner Aljaž Škorjanec to Gina G's 1997 hit Ooh Aah...

Just a Little Bit. The routine had received a mixed response from the judging panel, leaving the actress vulnerable to elimination for the second consecutive week. Following confirmation of her departure, Walters reflected on surviving longer than she had expected.

She had already faced a dance-off the previous weekend.

"I thought I’d be out last week - so I’ve had a bonus extra week." Walters said.

Škorjanec, 36, praised his celebrity partner after their time together on the BBC competition. The professional dancer highlighted her commitment and the enjoyment they shared throughout the experience. "You’re professional in everything and we had fun every day." Škorjanec said.

Judge Craig Revel Horwood had expressed reservations about the pair's Charleston, saying he "didn't love" their performance. Fellow judge Motsi Mabuse took a more encouraging approach, urging Walters to "keep going" with her dancing. Walters had previously spoken about her enthusiasm for joining the long-running television competition. The actress, best known for playing Gwen West in Gavin and Stacey, had followed the program for years while working in pantomime.

"Performing in Pantomime for the last 15 years, my Strictly ‘fix’ has always been watching in a dressing room rather than my front room." Walters said. She also described the opportunity to compete as a welcome change from her usual stage work.

Her comments reflected her excitement about taking part in a show she had watched for many years. "This year I am completely thrilled and happy to swap my fairy wand for sequinned dance shoes. I just hope I don’t follow Cinderella and leave one on the Ballroom stairs."

Walters said.

The actress had also praised the program's place in British television, describing it as an "iconic" show. Before joining the competition, she expressed eagerness to experience the production as a contestant rather than a viewer.

"I cannot wait to take part in this absolutely iconic show - it’s so exciting." Walters said. Walters has also appeared in television productions including We Are Seven, Hollyoaks, and Death Valley. Her departure leaves Wright-Phillips and Warr in the competition after the pair survived the dance-off despite their 15-point quickstep score.