Strictly Celebs Starstruck as Cynthia Erivo Shines

Published: 12 October 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Cynthia Erivo, the Oscar-nominated actress and singer, brought a touch of Wicked magic to Strictly Come Dancing on Saturday night, leaving both the audience and the celebrities themselves starstruck. Best known for her role as Elphaba in the hit film adaptation of Wicked, Erivo stepped into an entirely new role on the dance floor, making history as the show’s first ever guest mentor. Her presence during the annual movie-themed week added an unmistakable glamour and theatricality to the ballroom, creating an atmosphere buzzing with excitement and admiration.

Model and actor Ellie Goldstein could barely contain her excitement, calling Erivo “a true goddess” after receiving praise from the actress for her energy and performance. Goldstein wasn’t alone in her admiration; fellow contestants, social media users, and fans across the UK expressed similar awe at Erivo’s confident and encouraging mentoring. Amber Davies, the former Love Island star, described the experience as the “best day of her life” after receiving personal feedback from Erivo, illustrating the deep impact the mentor had on the contestants’ performances and morale.

Erivo’s return to Strictly was widely anticipated. She previously appeared as a guest judge for two weeks in 2021, but this time, her role as a mentor allowed her to interact more intimately with the dancers, offering guidance, encouragement, and constructive critique. Her mentoring style was widely praised for being empowering and uplifting, with contestants commenting that her presence boosted their confidence and inspired them to push themselves further on the dance floor. One social media user commented: “I loved how much she boosted the confidence of every contestant,” while another confessed that they would have “cried tears” if Erivo had told them they “were fab.”

The influence of Wicked extended beyond Erivo’s mentorship. The opening dance routine of the night paid homage to the film’s upcoming sequel, Wicked: For Good, which is set to hit cinemas next month. The professional dancers fully embraced the theme, with the women donning dramatic black dresses reminiscent of the Wicked Witch of the West and the male dancers channeling the dashing Prince Fiyero. Set against a striking green and blue backdrop, the performance combined theatricality and choreography to create a visually captivating, slightly spooky spectacle that set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Strictly Movie Week 2025 proved to be a truly cinematic experience, as contestants fully embodied the characters from the films they were representing. Emmerdale star Lewis Cope emerged as a standout performer, achieving the highest score of the night. Cope and his professional dance partner, Katya Jones, performed a Paso Doble inspired by the classic film The Mask of Zorro, to the dramatic score of The Plaza of Execution. Their routine earned them 37 points from the judges, with head judge Shirley Ballas praising the performance as “extraordinary.” Cope’s seamless execution, charisma, and storytelling through dance captivated both the judges and the audience, setting a high standard for the rest of the competitors.

Ellie Goldstein also delivered an impressive performance, living out her Barbie dreams with daring dips, squats, and swirls in a shimmering silver sequin jumpsuit. Her routine combined technical skill with playful charm, showcasing her versatility and confidence. Meanwhile, Amber Davies partnered with Olympian Harry Aikines-Aryeetey to deliver a lively and engaging performance that highlighted their chemistry and athleticism. TikToker George Clarke brought his own flair to the dance floor, scoring 31 points for a K-Pop Demon Hunters-inspired couple’s choice dance that fused contemporary elements with theatrical storytelling.

The evening also featured a truly magical moment when performer La Voix took to the floor as Mary Poppins. Their Waltz stunned the audience and judges alike, leaving the ballroom in a captivated silence. Erivo herself called the performance “beautiful” and “vulnerable,” highlighting the emotional depth and technical precision of the routine. This moment, along with the other performances, underscored the unique ability of Strictly Come Dancing to blend narrative, music, and movement into a single, immersive experience, celebrating the artistry of dance while honoring beloved cinematic works.

Despite the glamour, excitement, and celebration of talent, the reality of Strictly competition means that the evening’s magic comes with stakes. As always, someone will face elimination on Sunday night, reminding both contestants and viewers that the dazzling performances are matched by intense competition. This tension adds an extra layer of drama, as the audience is kept on edge, eagerly awaiting to see which performer will be sent home next. The mix of theatrical flair, celebrity mentorship, and competitive spirit makes Movie Week one of the most anticipated episodes of the series each year.

Erivo’s involvement in the show also reflects the growing trend of high-profile actors and musicians contributing to mainstream television in multifaceted roles. By stepping into the role of guest mentor, she not only celebrated her own achievements in the arts but also inspired and nurtured a new generation of performers. Her guidance and feedback carried the weight of professional experience, helping the contestants refine their technique, interpretive skills, and overall stage presence. The impact of such mentorship extends beyond a single episode, often leaving lasting impressions on the participants’ personal and professional growth.

Social media played a significant role in amplifying the excitement surrounding Erivo’s appearance. Fans quickly took to platforms like X and TikTok to share clips, comment on performances, and celebrate the actress’s return to the Strictly stage. The online buzz demonstrated the cultural resonance of both the show and its special guest appearances, highlighting how celebrity involvement can enhance viewer engagement and excitement. Erivo’s ability to connect with contestants, audiences, and fans alike reinforced her reputation as both a gifted performer and a compassionate mentor.

Saturday night’s performances, from Lewis Cope’s Zorro-inspired routine to La Voix’s Mary Poppins Waltz, illustrate the dynamic range of talent showcased during Movie Week. The combination of storytelling, choreography, and celebrity mentorship creates a compelling spectacle, blending entertainment with artistic excellence. Each routine told a story, challenged contestants’ abilities, and offered viewers a chance to celebrate creativity and imagination on the dance floor.

The integration of Wicked: For Good into the show was a particularly inspired choice, linking one of cinema’s most beloved musicals to the world of live dance performance. The show’s creative team successfully translated the film’s dramatic and fantastical elements into choreography that was both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. This approach not only pays homage to the original work but also showcases the versatility and adaptability of the Strictly Come Dancing format, keeping audiences engaged and entertained week after week.

As Movie Week continues, the combination of high-profile guest mentors, imaginative performances, and competitive stakes ensures that Strictly Come Dancing remains a standout program in the UK’s entertainment calendar. Saturday’s episode was a testament to the show’s enduring appeal, blending celebrity glamour, technical skill, and emotional storytelling in a way that captivates both live audiences and viewers at home. Cynthia Erivo’s role in mentoring and inspiring contestants added a unique and memorable dimension to the evening, cementing her status as both a celebrated performer and an influential figure in the arts.