01 October 2023 , 12:27
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Strictly's Motsi Mabuse surprised viewers as she pulled fellow judge Shirley Ballas for a kiss during Saturday's live show. The second week of the BBC dance competition series kicked off as Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman welcomed the celebs and their partners back to the dance floor.
But before the actions kicked off, the camera panned to the four judges - Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Shirley Ballas - as they showed off their huge smiles and dazzling outfits.
However, viewers were taken aback after Motsi pulled Shirley for a quick peck on the lips. But there appeared to be no awkwardness as the duo were seen giggling as they turned to face the cameras again. But they weren't the only duo to embrace, as former EastEnders actor Nigel Harman kissed partner Katya Jones on the cheek. Nigel and Katya performed a sweet routine to Stephen Sanchez's hit Until I Found You.
Shirley Ballas laughed off the kiss (BBC)Despite giving a heartfelt performance, Nigel was left disappointed by the judge's comments. Although Shirley praised his “graceful arms and lovely connection" she noted there was "too much up and down, and technical errors”.
Anton Du Beke said: “Immaculate intimacy and storytelling, work on your topline but lovely performance," but Craig Revel Horwood disagreed: “You’re being very picky, you two, besides the technical issues which are easily fixable, you have ability and people will vote for it, well done.” Motsi Mabuse added: "I have to agree with Craig, what’s happening? Just try to align yourself."
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Meanwhile, Giovanni Pernice gave Amanda Abbington a full-blown kiss on the lips after they performed their steamy Samba, and received an impressive 32 points for their dance. Fans were amazed by their chemistry and immediately took to Twitter to react to their sizzling performance.
The duo appeared to have brushed off rumours of a feud between them as they continued to put on a united front on social media. Just last week, it was reported Giovanni and Amanda were at war with each other behind the scenes of the BBC show. Sources claimed Amanda Abbington threatened to quit over Giovanni's 'militant and aggressive' behaviour in training.