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John Sergeant has sensationally pulled out of Strictly Come Dancing.
In a statement released today, he said: "I am sorry to say I have decided to leave Strictly Come Dancing.
"It was always my intention to have fun on the show and I was hoping to stay in as long as possible. The trouble is that there is now a real danger that I might win the competition. Even for me that would be a joke too far."
John has received strong support from the public despite being criticised by the judges each week over his performances.
The phone vote has seen him sail through to the next rounds, while the better dancers have faced the dance-off and axe from the show.
Strictly judge Arlene Phillips said of his departure: "I'm always sad if a contestant leaves of choice, because you are always expecting to let the public vote them in or out - but John is his own person and he has his own reasons for doing this.
However, she denied that the judges were responsible and said: "If you look back, we've actually been quite nice on this programme."
Cherie Lunghi, who was voted off the show on Sunday night, admitted that the show was becoming more like a soap opera.
She said: "It is almost like there are two shows going on. John is dancing and competing, but there is this whole soap thing and sympathy for the character."
Following John's statement today, BBC One controller Jay Hunt said: "We are very sad to see him go."
Do you think John is right to quit Strictly? Let us know what you think...
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User comments
Yes he is right! The joke is wearing thin!
Posted by: geoffdeane on Wed Nov 19 12:21PM | Report abusewh
Posted by: racer69uk on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuseIs sad to see adults being bullied on screen. No wonder children think its ok to do it to other children Its meant to be an entertainment show, this clebs wasnt going to be ball room dancers after the show was they??????
Posted by: pagewilkinson on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuseAs this is a show primarily for the Bingo Classes,I feel that John was lowering his status by even being associated with the show.
Posted by: tomporter12 on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuseIt's a disgrace that John Sergeant felt he had to retire from Strictly. This is a sure case of bullying in the hightest order. He clearly said along that he was not breaking any of the rules of the show, which he didn't. Shame on the judges and fellow contestants (Cherie and James Jordan in particular). It might be a suggestion that all of John fans should boycott watching the show!!!!
Posted by: eagrennan on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuseI am cheesed off with the judges ( who in reality have achieved very little and full of their own importance) try to dictate who the public should enjoy ! In addition their pompous and self-centred comments woul naturally encourage the viewer to rebel against it. John was a breath of fresh air showing that dancing is for everyone. The professional partners are obviously paid a fee for their services and are probably earning more than they would otherwise.
Posted by: srse1999 on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuseRidiculous, John. If the public weren't allowed to paticipate in voting the show would go downhill. Get back in and give us all a good laugh before you go.
Posted by: ahegarty07 on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuseYes - endearing as he is - he has made the right choice. Misguided voters kept him in a week too long. They have spoiled the competition more for him than any of the other competitors- he could have left on a high this week or last week.
Posted by: janicesaunders100 on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuseJohn was doing his best learning to dance and the judges went against him he should carry on he was LEARNING
Posted by: judithgilliland1941 on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuseshame john should have stayed ...............
Posted by: ukirl2006 on Wed Nov 19 12:22PM | Report abuse