Pete Wicks issues emotional statement ahead of controversial BBC Strictly semi-final appearance
Pete Wicks has made an emotional appeal to Strictly Come Dancing fans ahead of tonight’s semi-finals, despite being the odds-on favourite for elimination.
The couple are set to perform two contrasting routines in tonight’s semi-final: an Argentine Tango to Bittersweet by Symphony The Verve and a Foxtrot to Beyond The Sea by Bobby Darin.
This combination might work in their favour, according to Big Brother presenter Will Best on Friday’s It Takes Two.
“He’s doing a Foxtrot. Now with an Argentine Tango and Foxtrot – I’ve been looking at some statistics right and that as a combo has been responsible for the fewest number of eliminations from the competition,” Best revealed.
“There has only been three since 2018 so it’s playing very much into Pete’s hands here,” he added.
Taking to Instagram, Wicks shared a photo of himself and professional partner Jowita Przystal with their heads in their hands.
“Today is semi-finals day. It’s been 12 weeks of hard work, ups and downs…can we do the unthinkable? We would love your support tonight,” the 36-year-old wrote.
The heartfelt plea comes as the pair face mounting pressure, having landed at the bottom of the leaderboard during last week’s quarter-finals.
Pete has recently addressed the criticism he’s faced for reaching the semi-finals during an appearance on It Takes Two.
“Criticism is probably a light word, I think abuse would be better, but it is what it is,” he observed on the BBC Two spin-off show.
The reality star maintained a philosophical stance about the negative comments: “You can’t please everyone. I am not here to please everyone, I am here to try and learn something.”
“I am just a bloke who is just having a go at something. If I listened to all the negative stuff then I wouldn’t get out of bed in the morning,” he added.
Viewers have expressed strong opinions about Pete’s continued presence in the competition, with some accusing the judges of favouritism.
One fan pointed out Pete’s dance assignments, noting: “He is yet to do a jive, Charleston or Argentine tango, all of which are incredibly complex and fast-paced compared to the waltz.”
Despite the criticism, Pete remains enthusiastic about tonight’s performances, particularly the Argentine Tango.
“I didn’t think I’d ever get a chance to do it. I’m so pleased I have because I thought I’d like it, and I think it’s my favourite dance so far,” he revealed.
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His partner Jowita has remained supportive, stating: “I think you’re doing amazing. And I’m really, really looking forward to Saturday night.”
Across the competition, Wicks has maintained a positive outlook and continuously thanks viewers for keeping him on the show.