Susan Calman has been voted off ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The 43-year-old comedian and her professional partner Kevin Clifton became the ninth couple to leave the competition this weekend when all the judges unanimously opted to save Alexandra Burke and Gorka Marquez following the dance-off.
Craig Revel Horwood insisted Alexandra and Gorka’s Rhumba was the "better dance of the night", while Darcey Bussell opted to save the former ‘X Factor’ winner and her partner because of their "artistry and technical ability".
Bruno Tonioli was impressed by both couples, but said: "I really enjoyed them both but for different reasons. I have to say the best dancers in the dance-off were Alexandra and Gorka."
Head judge Shirley Ballas agreed and said she would also have sent home Susan and Kevin, who performed an American Smooth.
While she was disappointed to have been voted off the show, Susan still feels like she’s won because she’s made a friend for life in Kevin.
She told presenter Tess Daly: "I have loved every minute of it. Everyone from wardrobe, make-up, the runners, you and lovely Claudia [Winkleman], Zoe [Ball] on ‘It Takes Two’, the beautiful judges who have brought such light into my life every single week, everyone involved in the show, the audience, everyone who voted for us, we got far further than we thought we would.
"To my friends and my family and my lovely wife who’s here every single week supporting me.
"Most of all, I’ve made a friend for life and Kevin may not have won the Glitterball this year but he’s won Strictly for me."
Kevin also praised his dance partner.
He said: "I think Susan you’ve been the absolute epitome of joy and happiness throughout this whole competition, which in my eyes makes you a beautiful dancer. So thank you for dancing with me and thanks for being my friend."
Susan Calman voted off Strictly Come Dancing
