Former Love Island star Tasha Ghouri received the first perfect 10s of Strictly Come Dancing 2024 in a Coachella-themed Charleston routine to “Unhealthy” by Anne-Marie and Shania Twain. Judges praised her performance, yet history shows that early high scores do not guarantee victory on the dance floor.
The show has seen past frontrunners falter before the final, like comedian Eddie Kadi and pro partner Karen Hauer in 2023, and Tyler West and Dianne Buswell in 2022. Despite early acclaim, these competitors did not secure the Glitterball trophy, which ultimately went to unexpected fan-favorite Hamza Yassin.
Similarly, in 2021, despite early perfect scores from celebrities like CBBC star Rhys Stephenson and former Great British Bake Off contestant John Whaite, it was EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis who claimed victory. This trend highlights that success on Strictly is not solely determined by early triumphs.
While Tasha Ghouri demonstrated exceptional talent and charisma, the competition is fierce, with underdogs like comedian Chris McCausland making significant impressions. McCausland, who is blind, delivered a remarkable salsa routine filled with lifts that left judges in awe, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the show.
Opera singer Wynne Evans also showcased improvement, tying for second place with a lively tango to ABBA’s “Money, Money, Money.” Even contestants like Paul Merson and Pete Wicks have shown resilience, defying expectations and proving they are not to be underestimated.
As the competition unfolds, viewers can expect twists and turns, proving that on Strictly Come Dancing, the journey to the final is never predictable. The show thrives on surprises, ensuring that each week brings new challenges and triumphs for contestants and audiences alike.