The Wicked glamour lands on Strictly Come Dancing
In a night that felt more like a premiere than a Saturday on the studio floor, Cynthia Erivo stepped onto Strictly Come Dancing as the show’s first ever guest mentor. The Oscar-nominated star, famed for her portrayal of Elphaba in Wicked, brought a dose of Broadway magic to the dance floor and quickly became the talking point of Movie Week. Her presence wasn’t just a cameo; it signaled a fresh dynamic for the judging-led, spotlight-hogging world of dance competition television.
A star‑struck reception from contestants
Erivo’s arrival was met with genuine glee from the contestants, but none more so than Ellie Goldstein, who described the guest mentor as “a true goddess.” The admiration wasn’t one‑sided; Erivo’s praise for Goldstein’s energy helped lift the mood and showcase the supportive, confidence-boosting atmosphere that Movie Week aims for. Amber Davies, a former Love Island contestant turned Strictly alumna, described the experience as the “best day of her life” after Erivo showered praise on her performance. The moment underscored how a guest mentor can redefine a contestant’s mindset mid-season.
Social media eruptions and a reunion with Wicked vibes
The social web lit up as fans recalled Erivo’s earlier guest judge stint on Strictly in 2021, with many posting that her energy could lift even the most nervous performer. One X user wrote that Erivo “boosted the confidence of every contestant,” while another confessed that they would have cried tears if she’d told them they were fab. The memory of Erivo’s warmth fused with Movie Week’s theme, sending viewers on a nostalgic ride for fans of Wicked and a thrilling jolt for newcomers alike.
Wicked as the thread that ties the night together
The Wicked connection didn’t stop at Erivo. Saturday’s opening number drew heavily on the film’s forthcoming sequel, Wicked: For Good, which is set to hit cinemas next month. The choreography and staging told its own story: female pro dancers dressed in black evoked the Witch of the West, while male dancers captured the essence of Prince Fiyero. The backdrop’s green and blue hues lent the performance a theatrical, almost spellbinding aura, paying homage to the musical that sparked Erivo’s rise to superstardom while offering a fresh, cinematic lens on Strictly’s movie theme.
Why the moment matters for Strictly
Movie Week is a chance for the show to blend cinematic flair with classic ballroom and Latin choreography. Bringing in a guest mentor of Erivo’s stature adds depth to the storytelling, showing how a performer can translate stage and screen charisma into rehearsal-room confidence. The episode reminded audiences that Strictly isn’t just about flawless footwork; it’s about the emotional arc of a performance and how mentors—whether full‑time judges or guest stars—can unlock a dancer’s potential.
Looking ahead
With Erivo’s impact clear, fans will be watching to see if this week’s spark translates into longer-term improvements for the competitors. Movie Week’s legacy in Strictly history is reinforced by the way a single guest mentor can shift attitudes, embolden nerves, and spark social-media buzz that extends beyond the studio. If this is any indication, the rest of the season could be filled with cinematic surprises, dramatic spins, and unforgettable performances inspired by the magic of Wicked.
