Last weekend, former Coronation Street star Catherine Tyldesley, 36, became the fifth contestant to leave the BBC show after head judge Shirley Ballas, 59, chose to Mike Bushell, 53, after the Strictly Come Dancing 2019 dance-off.
The judge’s controversial decision prompted many viewers to share their thoughts on social media, including actress Hayley Tammadon, 42.
The latter told fans she favoured Catherine’s final performance over Mike’s as she wrote: “Sorry but @Cath_Tyldesley did not deserve to go tonight in @bbcstrictly.
“She was the better dancer by far… hold your head up high my darling Cath… you’ve been a joy to watch from start to finish. Big love to you and @jojo_radebe.”
The axed Strictly star seemingly agreed with the post by liking Hayley’s comment in view of her 430,000 followers.
The ex Coronation Street actress also liked a post which read: “Love Jojo & Cath! We definitely need more of them!”
Following the result on Sunday, Catherine Tyldesley and Johannes both cried when discussing their exit with host Tess Daly.
Speaking of her dance partner, the mother-of-one said: “He’s like my best friend.
“He’s just…oooh, (in reference to her eye make-up) it’s waterproof… just the opportunity to work with amazing people and get critiqued off amazing people.”
Since Catherine’s departure from the show, Mike, Katya and Shirley have received negative comments from viewers online.
Last night, BBC Breakfast star Mike hit back at a Twitter user who queried his position on the show.
He replied: “Hi it’s an entertainment show. I don’t pretend to be a real dancer. I like @IAmChrisRamsey and others are trying to learn from scratch.
“I got 32 for quick step and was Proud. I train 12 hour days to learn each dance. It’s not pro dance competition hope makes sense love mike.”(sic)
Mike Bushell’s co-star Dan Walker also weighed in on the controversy and urged trolls to stop with the abuse.
The BBC Breakfast presenter shared a picture of the bottom two dancing duos in view of his 93,000 Instagram followers.
He wrote: “Fully understand that people loved watching @auntiecath17 & @johannesradebe on #Strictly but some of the abuse aimed at @mikebushellofficial @mrs_katjones & @shirleyballas is cruel and ridiculous.
“Shirley is doing her job and Mike & Katya are simply trying their best. Roll on next week.”
Many of the star’s fans agreed with his post, with one writing: “He deserved to stay in this week, simple.”
A second commented: “Well said. It’s only dancing!”
Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday on BBC One.
