Patrick Foster, Media Correspondent
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John Sergeant, arguably the least talented person ever to feature in a talent contest, moved closer to the Strictly Come Dancing final last night on a wave of public support.
The 64-year-old political journalist, whose hapless dancefloor antics have seen housewives take him to their hearts, again finished bottom of the judges’ rankings but was propelled into the next round by a public vote that saw the actress Cherie Lunghi dumped out of the BBC competition.
Sergeant may be vastly popular with the public, but his continued presence, at the expense of Lunghi, 56, who had been a favourite to win the contest, has won him few friends among Strictly’s celebrity contenders and their professional dance partners.
The cast usually stick up for each other in public, but James Jordan, Lunghi’s dance partner, broke ranks yesterday to beg viewers to end Sergeant’s run in the competition. Visibly annoyed after being told that he and Lunghi were out of the show, Jordan said: “I think Cherie had a lot more to show. This is supposed to be a dance contest. Please, please, people at home, vote for the dancing.”
The frustration directed at the former political correspondent was all too evident at the end of the show. Unseen by those watching at home but witnessed by the studio audience, none of the performers milling on the dance floor to commiserate with and embrace Lunghi would make eye-contact with Sergeant, who wandered aimlessly among them.
The competition has now reached a stage where, bar Sergeant, all those remaining are accomplished dancers with a shot at taking home the trophy.
One senior show insider said that he thought the public would now put an end to the joke. “This might be the tipping point,” the source said. “People at home will see that the competition has got to the stage that those getting kicked out at the expense of John had a real chance of winning.”
Sergeant finished bottom in the judges’ vote for the third week running after dancing the American Smooth with his Russian partner, Kristina Rihanoff. In previous weeks the four judges have fulminated at his performance, with Craig Revel Horwood telling The Times on Saturday: “This is a dance competition. It’s not Strictly Come John Sergeant.”
However, after seeing such harsh words provoke even more support for Sergeant, they chose to love-bomb him. “Surprisingly appealing,” Bruno Tonioli, the Italian judge, purred. “Some slightly small ‘wow’ factor,” Revel Horwood added, as the four awarded Sergeant his highest marks so far. Alas, it was no use. The public spoke and Sergeant prevailed.
It is not a dance contest, it is supposed to be family entertainment and I beginning to wonder if it is actually living up to this ideal. It's time they changed the judges - spiteful, arrogant, argumentative and full of their own importance - get rid of them, and the meaningless dance-off.
Rog J, Portsmouth, uk
I think this the whole John Sergeant has done much to reveal the truth behind these shows.
The show is for viewer entertainment and charity, it's also funded by license payers. Not for washed up pop stars to make come backs and get OK magazine deals. As long as the money goes to charity who cares?
Louisa, Dundee, United Kingdom
The show gives an unfair start to young pop singers. A 23-year old who can sing and is rythmic competes against someone like John - if it were up to the judges alone, this would be just a dance programme without any interest to the majority of the public. But it is not - thanks to the likes of John
Olga, Oxford, UK
Is it me ??
I thought Strictly was a fundraiser for children's charities. The ups and downs of the various contestants only add spice and interest - good luck to JS - good luck to the remaining contestants. But the real winners should be the charities - shame if refunds are demanded.
Sheila Margaret Brown, Tavistock, UK
All new judges for the next season please.
keith Thomas, Denver, Colorado
I told my son that JS had quit in a jocky way when he came home from school, but his eyes welled up. He was really upset. Hes sees it as an injustice and the judges as bullies. I wonder how many kids feel the same.
Dee, Cambride,
Having made it impossible for John to continue in the show with their unpleasantness, every single penny of revenue generated by people who voted for John Sargeant should be refunded.............not just if they ask, but as a matter of course.
jo , guildford, england
Perhaps the Judges should be reminded that it is "Anti Bullying Week". Shame on you. John, you remain a "Gentleman"
Paul Ralph, Trowbridge, wilts
I have never heard such hypocrisy as the comments from the judges and some of the other competitors today. However they are the losers. John has shown them up by his gentlemanly behaviour and I for one will not bother to watch again. I call upon all others who feel the same to boycott the programme.
lizzieJ, portsmouth, uk
For goodness sakes, this is an entertainment programme everyone, it is not a serious dance contest ... i just wish everyone would stop taking themselves so seriously!!
Jackie James, Birkenhead, U.K.
On hearing one of the competitors say *its like waiting for your doctor to give you the all clear" I then saw how out of perspective it has become. After all its only a plastic trophy they all have their own well paid jobs to return to and we need a laugh.
Glesny Sheppard , Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
If there is anything that is likely to get me to vote on Saturday for the first time in the whole season, it is the chance of ruffling Craig Revel Horwood's feathers. Is this all a ploy?
The other contestants should remain detached from all this - alienating John will do nothing for their images
Ella, London,
The judges be wise to remember it is Sat night light entertainment.!!!
If you lose the entertainment factor there be no 2009 dancing ,
Where will that leave the judges then?.
postypaul, Caerphilly, Wales
Sad day for Strictly. John Sargeant's resignation should be matched by one of the judges who have hounded him off.
Reduces the final to two dancers only and serves the BBC right.
In future only celebs with good figures and without two left feet should apply; (and probably will!)
Alf Manders, Stratford upon Avon, UK
Whatever the perceived mistakes on this programme, the biggest by far was by Bruce Forsyth, who on three occasions referred to the singer on Sunday night's show as Mr. Tom Jones. Brucie !! It's Sir Tom. I'm sure you would have been very quick to point it out if the roles were reversed.
PAUL, NEATH, SOUTH WALES
Thank you all you lovely people. I have laughed out loud several times at the these comments. Reason and good humour are heartlifting to see. I don't even know who this man is and have never seen the programme but it's all priceless.
Julie , Dubai,
As much as I like John, he was getting past his sell by date, a bit like hearing the same joke over and over again.
Perhpas he should be considered for X factor or even Eurovision song contest. With his popularity perhaps next time we would win!
Marilyn, Thurrock, Essex
I for one will not be voting for anyone on this show now. Why dont we all boycott the voting and leave it to the judges on the show!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
John Sargeant had no option but to quit the show.
Eve, scunthorpe, england
Cherie Lunghi! What a poor loser, sitting po-faced when her partner criticised John Sergeant. Good for you Gloria Winkleman, for stating the obvious; people watch because it features CELEBRITIES If the rest of the 'cast' ostracise John they ought to be ashamed of themselves.
Melinda, Coulon, France
The so called 'experts' are so 'up themselves' WHO do they think they are. Pathetic I'd say, apart from being bad sportsmen, without a sense of humour. Cherie's partner swanked about on the dance floor. Is he a ceaseless swanker! Now he's outraged because HE'S been voted off.
Melinda, Coulon, France
It isn't 'strictly' a dancing competition. If it was why would they have some mid level celebrities on the show over professional dancing couples? Why would they allow it to have a public vote? I could go on but JS I hope you win!
Andy, liverpool, merseyside
I think people are heartily fed up with people from stage school backgrounds and formal dance training using an amateur competition to revalise their flagging careers. Contestants don't start on an equal footing & Segeant at least has shown genuine progress as an amateur as well as good humour.
Sophie, London, UK
Dancing Competition? If you look at all the over-the-top coverage of this programme, the 2 things there isn't much of is dancing and competition. For me the greatest entertainment is the public's rejection of the self-promoting posturing of the so-called experts' views.
Phil, Preston,
Where is all the money from the phone vote going?
Why has this not been made clear?
I watch it only for JS, but I haven't voted once yet. If it is for charity I will vote for him until the end. Why? Because he entertains me, makes me smile, and above all watch!
Shirley Dodd, Croston, England
Why did the BBC put John in the contest? Obviously he can't compete with athletic youngsters. Look what happened to poor old Jimmy Tarbuck. He's in there for entertainment value. Keep going, John.
mary, penmaenmawr, wales
If John had gone five weeks ago who would have been voted off this week!!!you would then not have had the fun of watching him all this time.
David, PUDSY, West Yorkshire
The arrogant judges should remember something that Fred Astaire said: "The hardest jobs kids face today is learning good manners without seeing any." The only person to show exemplary manners in all this is ... John Sargeant. A worthy winner if ever there was one.
John, Stanford in the Vale, UK
The Judges are bullies. If the contestants are to be just judged on the dancing then only the official Judges should judge. The public are not qualified to judge and don't even get to see much of the feet so how are we to Judge. We do see John's quirky smile. JOHN TO WIN
Twisted Sister, Chelmsford,
Cannot belive I am being sucked into this, but, If what Sheila from Chertsey says is true
...because for every 20 out there voting for him there are 80 wanting him to go and they won't be watching next year!...
why aren't they voting for their favourites and thus ending the problem.
Ellie, Gloucester,
Those of you threatening to "never watch again"..... Do you think the BBC cares? They'll still get your license fee. There are plenty of others who have bigger things to get worked up about who will watch this as some good clean entertainment on a Saturday night.
Katherine, rugby,
John should stay, but if he resigns (as some think he should) then he should do so in high dudgeon (justifiably) citing bullying by the judges.
Gina, Cheltenham,
Flat erik always likes to watch JS,keep going John-
Roodle, Tamworth,
I've never seen this and I loathe this type of show, but JS will be getting a vote from me this week.
To quote Cpl Jones, from Dad's Army: 'They don't like it up 'em'!
Craig, Stevenage,
I hope this madness ends this weekend. Funny as it was to keep John in now he has just become a very bad joke. If the public continue it could be the last of a brilliant show, because for every 20 out there voting for him there are 80 wanting him to go and they won't be watching next year!
Sheila, Chertsey, UK
This whole argument is complete twaddle. Keeping Sergeant in makes a difference of one week only. Remove him and the next week the others are all on their merit. The people who believe this is about dancing are the same crowd who believe East Enders or Coronation Street are real. Its entertainment!!
mike gee, bournemouth, uk
It is sad when little knowns grow jealous of another's popularity. JS is making a strike for all of us who were picked last for the teams at school. The achievers are too arrogant. I only watch for JS. Now I will vote too.
Ro, Cheltenham,
The judges votes are given to us
Why are the public votes not published?
Lets just see how much more popular John is than these so call "stars".
Anyone heard of the judges before this competition..how dare they criticise John
Please vote him all the way to the final
"Keeeeeep Dancing" .JS.
BillN, Winchester, UK
Brilliant TV! Certainly entertaining just to see the judges work out what to say each week when John is kept in. John has done nothing wrong, and the public votes for their favourite. So what? Its a TV programme and its entertainment. John is a marvel and has great dignity.
Heather, Hampshire, UK
What the judges seem to have forgotten when they keep critising the public voters, is that ultimately it is these people who are paying their fees for the programme.
Tom, Reading,
Why keep picking on John Sergant, it's the public that keep's voting him in, He was asked to partisapate in the competition and that is what he is doing, they knew he could not dance when they asked him, It is not his fault if he is kept in by the public. leave him alone.
R .Griffiths , Telford, Shropshire
The judges and proffesional dances call this a dance contest not entertainment if this was true then most of the judges have talked them selves out of a job as they have no experience in either ballroom or latin so what right do they have to judge. The need to keep quiet and let the public vote
Samantha, Leeds,
Never... Ever... Ever try to tell the British public what to do... they will hate you for it and do the opposite just so they can watch you squirm! I love watching these judges and mincing dancers cry "its unfair" ... no it isn't... its entertainment and we love it! Go John Go!
Roger, London,
I'm sure he entered for a bit of fun, and he's having it. Don't give the public a vote if you don't want their opinion. Leave it to the "experts". Less fun for everybody else.
Phil, Wakefield,
I think John Sergeant embodies the very essence of what dancing is all about. Get on the floor and have a go...
'll vote for him again next week and all the way to the final.
Denise Wilcock, Andover, Hants
This is the problem when you leave the final say to the members of the public. If you want a proper dance competition, just use dancers, don't have phone votes and no celebrities. But then, you'll have Come Dancing, and it would be buried in the wee hours, not on prime time. Sound familiar?
Maddie, Melbourne, Australia
John Sargeant shows an arrogance which is breathtaking. He says he is 'entertaining'. In what way is he 'entertaining'? The show is a dancing competition and it is the dance that is entertaining - not John Sargeant.
His continued presence is damaging the format of an excellent show.
Linda Richardson, Southam, UK
I thought the goal of the contest was to win public support while dancing. Or is the public only allowed to vote if they echo the views of the judges and professional dancers.
They are presenting mainstream entertainment and it appears a few people need to remember this.
Darrill, Crawley, UK
I won't be watching this show anymore, it has now descended into a farce.
Martin, Cambridge, UK
It seems obvious that it is entertainment first and dancing second. So, what's wrong with the public making their choice for Sergeant instead of some other person. Presumably he is putting in just as much effort and maybe deserves more credit as it doesn't come easily to him. Good luck to him!
mike, herne bay,
Who picked John Sergeant to be in the competition in the first place? The producers. If they only wanted a competition to be for 'celebrities' who can dance, was John only picked to be mocked by the 'judges'? Public - keeping voting for John.
Ethan, Weybridge , Surrey
John who ? , my vote's for Kristina for just walking onto the dance floor WOW !!!!! What competition ? !!
pete, Stockport, UK
the public feel tempted to vote for john as it riles the judges who take themselves far too seriously. why did the bbc include john in the competition if they only wanted him to lose? that's not polite.
mia, london, uk
The 'no hopers' are welcomed into the competition to attract public interest and add the fun element. Then when things hot up the public are expected to vote the joke dancer off. I hope he wins. They can't have their cake and eat it. And for goodness sake lighten up.
Kate, Glasgow, UK
As a political journalist John appears to be a man with integrity. Public supports him because he asks them to. They are loyal - time to demonstrate real integrity John ask the public to let you go - leave with integrity and dignity.
Cath, NOrthampton,
Let's not forget that this is exactly what the BBC hoped for in staging this series. The rules, vague as they are, were deliberately designed to create tension between technical excellence and popular sentiment. As in the case of Mr Sergeant, this produces headlines, and (they hope) more viewers.
Tom Welsh, Basingstoke,
Why the surprise? The British always go for the underdog. I saw a dancing competition in a Spanish hotel once. The 3 British couples couldn't dance and just did something "for a laff". The German couple danced perfectly (they'd had lessons). One of the British couples won.
Tina Jones, Dusseldorf, Germany
Oh for goodness' sake! It's a celebrity dance competition! It's not like Xfactor or one of the otehrs where it's ordinary people... It's entertainment. Not knocking the show... I love it but people shouldn't take it so seriously!
Ella, London,
The real trouble is that John Sergeant is an insult to older people.
Surely there are hundreds or thousands of celebrities in their 70s or 80s who could dance infinitely better than Sergeant.
I'm 76 and I'm shocked just how utterly poor John is after weeks of training.
Bertram C. Johnston, Overijse, Belgium
I assume that celeb non-dancers are invited into the competition in the first place so we can have some entertainment...so how are some folk trying to tell the public how to vote? It's good family fun and you can't treat folk like rubbish by inviting them on and dumping them when it suits the judges
Hevsym, newport, uk
I hope he wins, it will make them cancel the show next season. That's what they did with Pop Idol after the fat bird won it, the public has a habit of poking authorities in the eye, same thing with MTV awards a few weeks back when Rick Astley won because they made it a public vote.. big mistake!
John Kench, Chelmsford, UK
Who decides who participates in the first place?
Surely, you would have similar parity with all contestants to make it as close as possible from the start.
Brian, Bournemouth,
I'm definately in the camp that believes this is purely light entertainment. The other contestants may be irritated but only because the public are telling them who they like the most and pampered ego's are looking a tad fragile. Why do we have to have the obvious choice from the start as a winner?
Mark Chisholm, Dereham, UK
Wonderful, 'The Viper viped!" John was put into the show to give people something to laugh at, attract the viewers, be the tethered goat - well sorry BBC, you allow us to vote and the scapegoat can suddenly become a point of focus!
Moral of the story? Make sure the contestants start as equals!
David, Woking, England
I'd far rather have JS occupying BBC1 on a Saturday night than Jonathan Ross on a Friday night. JS is giving us family entertainment without swearing or offending anyone other than the pompous judges (hope they're not overpaid) and look what a kerfuffle he's got us all in - tremendous BBC!
Madeleine Pemberton, Maughold, Isle of Man
Keep going John,just make sure you win! How on earth can people get so worked up about something so unimportant? Its fun but that's it!
Edward, Tisbury, UK
What a laugh... it makes you want to vote for John all the more with the judges comments. Since John improved so much from the week before he has the right to stay in if the public are happy to pay and vote for him. AS other readers have said he gives pleasure to watch and that is what we want.
liza, London,
shows like this only prove the rule that 'garbage accumulates to fill the space available to it'
david, new York, United States
This IS a dance competition and it's time for the public to vote on the improved dancing prowess of the celebrities. If really worthy competitors are booted out because of some misplaced support for John (who I like, but let's face it he can't dance) I will never watch or vote again!!
Sue Shaw, Morpeth, UK
These comments have surprisingly changed my mind. I am a SCD fan & believed JS should be out by now. Cherie is a better dancer. Comments that JS was only invited in order to be an object of derision have hit home. I will not be voting for him but would defend the right of those (WHO WATCH!) who do
Maggie, Bedford, Bedfordshire
This is great. I will continue to vote for John and yes I hope he wins it. Yes he is a terrible dancer, but anything that I can do to poke the BBC and these arrogant judges in the eye, I will continue to do. I will be laughing when John wins it.
Paul, Bucks, England
I was under the impression that this was an ENTERTAINMENT show, and so it seems, the Great British public are voting for entertainment. Its not a matter of life and death, so just sit back and enjoy....that or pick up the phone and vote and stop complaining!
Katherine, London,
The TV licence paying public are only doing what Brucie and Tess implore them to do each programme vote for the person they want to see back next week. No mention of asking to them to pick the best dancer so if its John they want then so be it.
So keep going John, youre by far the most ent
Michael, Ipswich,
Is "Strictly" solely a serious dance competition or entertainment with public involvement?
If the latter, then one cannot be surprised if the public vote to be entertained each week. John Sergeant who represents the common man rather than celebrity is hugely entertaining.
M. Purchase, Solihull,
Thanks Anthony from Coalville.
I stand corrected. Apparently it used to be for the benefit of Children in Need but is no longer. (The Beeb didn't publicise that).
So now the only benefit in voting is to annoy Smug Granville Hardboard.
That still has to be a worthwhile cause :-)
Pudsey, Basingstoke,
Ah, the English mentality - love the underdog and mess with the system wherever possible. Love 'em.
Roger Lorton, Nongprue, Thailand
I like him better when he's working under his 'Jo Brand' identity
Mikey, Bromley, Kent
The comments of many are telling - JS is kept in to "stick up 2 fingers". Veneration of the mediocre, the bad, the loser. Goes some way toward explaining a broken society with the worst economy and economic outlook in Europe. Why aim for the stars when the gutter is so much closer.
S.C. Huldig, London,
If John S is considered to be not fit to be voted for, why was he invited on to the programme at all? If the 'professionals' want a dance contest based on strict criteria it is surely extremely patronising to expose a man in his sixties to competition with twentysomethings.
David, Southampton, UK
It IS a dancing contest, not a professional one, but one in which celebrities try to improve their skills. This reactionary attitude of people of "I'll vote for him to make a point/have a go at "The Establishment"/stop the bullies" is getting on my nerves. JS has made his point, time to bow out.
Jenny , Stroud, UK
The judges must treat John with respect and show they mean it ! If they don't the public will punish them all the way to the final. Len's reaction at the casting vote was appalling. It is not his place to imply that John Sargent should have been the one to go.
jon, london, uk
John Sargeant is right in that he is only "playing according to the rules". However a true competitor would by now have done the honorable thing and withdrawn (amid a huge wave of public acclaim!).
Gerry, York,
Whoever takes this trivial rubbish seriously, as with X Factor etc, really needs to get out more.
Andy, St Helens,
Dancing and entertainment - these two are what the voters/viewers are supposed to want. JS cannot dance even basically and I'm afraid he is no longer 'funny' with his one - liners and quips. So both planks are gone. So he has to go next week, otherwise he will win the whole thing!!
D. O'Connell, Chorley,
Perhaps next season the bottom three from the Judges Leader Board go to a dance-off and the public votes for the one to be sent home. That keeps the focus on the dancing while giving the public a large say !
Gerry, York,
I would also like to say that John is in this competition purely for pleasure, not for the purpose of resurrecting his career or on the off-chance that a record company might give him the chance to release some shoddy cover version in time for Christmas. This shows.
Gary, Flitwick, UK
Making a mockery of the show?
Were we meant to be taking a bunch of tangoed has-beens prancing around in sequins and too-tight trousers seriously? And as for the judges' botox and Bruce's rug! Do people really tune in to this show to see the cultural envelope being pushed? Balanchine it ain't !
Esther, London,
Presumably, all those who vote for any other contestant are studying the finer points of each dance in minute detail and coming to a considered decision on which dance is technically superior? Of course not. I love watching John dance and I enjoy the happiness he shows as he dances. John to win.
Gary, Flitwick, UK
Len Goodman says 'this makes a nonsense of the show', it is a nonsense - more power to the public elbow!
John, leamington, UK
"This is supposed to be a dance contest"
No, it is TV entertainment, people should vote for whoever they want to see again
Mark, Cirencester,
If you don't want the public's opinion why have a public vote!
The competitors, professional dancers, and some of the public are taking the whole competition too seriously. This leaves a bitter taste to the mouth. Show some graciousness.
Sarah Circo, Ralston, AB, Canada
The show's programmers must be on cloud 9.
Why are the other so called "contestants" getting so wound up it's ridicule, they need to remember this should be for charity and not personal gratification, every call represents more money going into the coffers for good causes.
Robert , Norwich , Norfolk
It's a dancing competition. John, despite being dashingly heroic, can NOT dance. Again, we are being treated to public ignorance and sentimentality, when we should be treated to public understanding of and enjoyment of fine dancing.
Anyway, I tried voting for John but the phone lines were busy.
Alfie Hynes, Plymouth, England
I have never phone voted on any TV show before , however , like many others here I am inspired to give JS my vote every week from now on . I might even watch the show first , but I doubt it .
Benzo , Nr Chelmsford,
Presumably the program-makers vet the contestants so they should have known that Mr S was no dancer and had little potential to be one. So why did they choose him to participate? Entertainment? Humiliation? Maybe they should tell us instead of complaining when the public rumbles their silly game
al, weybridge, UQ
Voting to keep John Sergeant in SCD is the closest thing to anarchy available to the population at large.
Is he by any chance related to Jo Brand the comedien? the resemblance is striking!
Wurzel, Midsomer Norton, UK
Would a show where a panel of professionals decided alone, command a prime-time slot , give the judges such professional exposure, and have the budget to reward them so well for their work?
The rules are that the public pay for the call and have the right to vote as they wish.
Martin, Essex, UK
who has done more for the aims of the show, entertainment and raising money for charity.
Only one answer
BillN, Winchester, UK
A popularity contest? Big brother is a popularity contest, this is a talent show. Put John S in the big brother house where the morons can vote for him and the rest of us dont have to watch. John S be a man and show some professionalism, it is time to bow out & stop making a mockery of the show.
Quentin, Wimborne, UK
Will the eventual 'celebrity' winner turn professional, representing GB in the Ballroom world?
No, thought not. So it's basically charitable entertainment and should be treated as such .
Can't stand the stuff - ghastly mincing, cheap &nasty costumes/make-up - but will vote for JS to annoy people.
Annie, Machynlleth, Wales
How much is the average wage for judging a serious dance competition?
If it wasnt an entertainment show on prime time BBC TV paid for by the good old working classes, then who would have heard about Craig Upper Norwood and the rude woman?
Jack O Greenwood, London,
John Sergeant is the man. Thats all I have to say.
Simon, Birmingham, Britain
It is delightful to see the arrogant and self satified judges ignored by the customers..Long may it continue.The BBC have long encouraged us to vote for the pair we would like to see next week.When we do it upsets the judges.Time for Forsyth to present the judges to mark and all of them to SHUT UP.
Willy Heckaslyke, huddersfield, uk
It is delightful to see the arrogant and self satified judges ignored by the customers..Long may it continue.The BBC have long encouraged us to vote for the pair we would like to see next week.When we do it upsets the judges.Time for Forsyth to present the judges to mark and all of them to SHUT UP.
Willy Heckaslike, uddersfield, uk
This is not a dance competition! It's just another Celebrity TV show. I don't see people complaining when someone gets kicked out of I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here" saying "why are they keeping him in. He clearly couldn't survive in the jungle". Duh. That's not the point! Keep it up John.
Simon, Wilmslow, UK
I read in the Radio Times that Strictly is not raising money for charity through the phone calls this year due to the problems there have been with peak rate call lines.
Gary, Manchester, England
John's continued run has only delayed the departure of people like Cherie for 1 week. John did not make the rules. I find the programme a lot more interesting otherwise I would switch off at the first sight of Bruce Forsyth . The priority is to replace him when the rules are changed
V Cooper, Somerset, UK
It's a dance entertainment show; they are meant to be entertaining us by dancing. He can't dance, which was entertaining for a bit, but it is no longer entertaining, so he should go.
It's stopped being funny.
Rachel, London,
If all those involved with the show are now moaning about JS remaining in the show, what was the point in having someone of his ability take part.. oh yes thats right, can't have a reality show without someone to make fun of can we.. well its backfired, and come to bite all of them on the butt..
Gareth Thomas, Banwell, North Somerset,
Pudsey
No, it has NOTHING to do with Children in Need any more, may not have any charity element at all.
Anthony Brooks, Coalville, UK
Will.. why is it a waste of your money, all monies raised goes to Children in Need with the Concept of it being entertaining and fun not serious, not into the coffers of someone like Simon Cowell, now that is one person who's show i refuse to watch.
Gareth Thomas, Banwell, North Somerset,
errmmm - who cares???????????????????
Paul Munro, London, UK
Do not ask the public what they think or want ,if you do not want to listen to thier voice. Viva democracy.
phil Lingard, anan, France
I am definitely voting for him. I would like Cheri to be off on Saturdays so that we can start dating!!!! Call me darling!!!
Paul Munro, London, UK
Nothing to do with Children in Need, may not have any charity element either.
Tony, Coalville, England
My understanding is the revenue from the phone lines goes to charity, if so this is a charity event first and a dance contest second. If you want a pure dance contest remove the public vote!
Jon, St Albans,
Who's Cherie Lunghi ?
John, Dublin, Ireland
I love JS; he looks like Mr Micawber! I shall continue to vote for him; anything to puncture the ego of the producers. He was selected to be a fallguy for the more serious contenders, and that's not fair to JS. If the show is to be taken seriously by the public, choose competent celebs in future
Mike, leicester,
It's a dance competition, yes - but on TV. So for us, it's entertainment as well. And who is this dancer to tell us how to vote? It's a democracy, get used to it.
Now I want John to win more than anything, just to see these bad losers trip over themselves... for entertainment, of course.
Howard, Manchester,
I'm not qualified to comment on his dancing, but I think those that attack him should take a long look at their own values.
Alastair Harris, DERBY,
If it's such a serious dance contest, why invite John, aged 64, to take part in the first place and why let the people have a say if you're just going to moan when you don't agree with them?
Richard, Glossop,
l had not watched the show before.
l watched purely because of the controversy.
The dancers preceeding John were accomplished and l began to have sympathy with the judges.
That was; until John took to the floor.
He dances like a proud father with his beautiful daughter.
A joy to behold.
carole cooper, norwich , GREAT Britain
Apart from John, Cheri and Austin, who are these people anyway? They take it so seriously because they want fame from it.
John is not doing it for fame, he was put there to be ridiculed he deserves our admiration for having guts
I hope John and Austin make it to the final at least they are genuine
BillN, Winchester, UK
Perhaps John should be voted off, as one feels sorry for the "real"dancers. However, he does not ask the public to vote for him and the other dancers, to ostrasize him shows their own mean mentality for being there by public demand. It is a Saturday amusement show for heaven sake!!!
Jill, Kings Lynn, UK
We seem to have forgotten that if John had been voted out earlier in the competition then one of the other contenders would have been voted out this week anyway! I'm sorry for all the disappointed 'real contenders'. I thought this was an entertainment programme, I was obviously mistaken.
Wendy I, Manchester,
John should retire - the judges can then eat thier hats - he has played by the rules and won already and has nothing else to prove.
grouchy, London,
At the end of the day, the judges are giving their professional opinion on the dance. If John was a good dancer, then they would not be criticising him and giving him low marks. But as he is so bad, then they have to give him the low marks. They are not telling stories, they are telling the truth.
James Jarad, Weston Super Mare,
How can you, that supposedly like JS, keep him in the competition to be humiliated every week.
Please get real and relieve embarrassment of his dance partner and mostly himself.
Debbie, London,
this is not a dancing contest. never was. it's a popularity contest thinly disguised as one. usually none of the celebrities stands out as a more lovely person than any other, so the best all round dancer tends to win. but John is a delight and we love him and he will win...
debbie, bucks,
The joke is now well and truly over - the show's appeal is watching the dancers improve week by week, not to watch an increasingly arrogant JS's light comedy antics. Kristina - great publicity for her as a newcomer but to join the show only for their presence to call the show's nature into question!
Mark, Hereford,
Isn't this all just about raising money for "Children in Need"?
If so - to paraphrase young Brucie - "Keep Voting".
Pudsey, Basingstoke,
To be honest, I've been routing for Cherie to win and whilst upset that she's out I have to abide by the rules. That sad old octogenarian keeps asking us to vote for the one we WANT to see win. If they want us to vote on the dancing they should ask us to vote for the BEST DANCER.
Richard, Milton keynes, England
I don't watch the show & consider it to be a complete waste of our money. However, I will be voting for JS on the basis that I hope that if he wins it will show the BBC what a ridiculous concept this is. We've had a decade of this rubbish so the BBC should justify itself and come up with a new shows
Will , Liverpool , UK
John cannot quit because it will cause another phone-in scandal.
Richard Boyce, Haywards Heath, UK
If we wanted a real dance contest - we'd just have the pros . As usual we want the celebrity factor, thus we vote for personality too. I mean why add in an elderley gentleman in the 1st place? People are voting for him in droves which = more money for Children in Need. So they are the real winners.
Sarah, London, England
It's only telly!!
David, Leeds, UK
If John Seargent had an ounce of professional pride he would either fein injury or retire gracefully from what is after all a serious dancing contest, not "Strictly bum dancing"
e.ferdinando, mickleover.Derby, Derbyshire
Always makes me laugh when a TV Programme asks for audience participation then gets it knickers in a twist when they dont do what their supposed to. If it's a dance competition, the professional judges have to decide the outcome, otherwise live by the results that the process delivers
Graham, Nottingham,
It worries me some what that some people are taking this far too seriously.
At the end of the day we are raising money for charity! The more votes John gets the more money raised!
That is the point of the show entertainment and charity!
Rebecca, Penrith, UK
The BBC won't get rid of the public vote because to do so would remove all that lovely "lolly" for charities. But they daren't fix it so John's out 'cos that would be unfair. John's competing albeit badly, but the public WANT him in. Tough Luck!!!!!
Richard, Milton keynes, England
My sympathy is with John Sargent. He is not responsible for the public votes and for the other competitors to ignore him seems somewhat churlish. Whilst it is supposedly a dance contest, it is hardly surprising that the public votes for their favourite rather than for the best.
Richard, Manchester, England
The voters at home are voting for the couples we want to see next week. If that happens to be John and Kristina then so be it. Changing the rules, giving more weight to the judges would ruin the competition.
John, Nottingham, UK
It is a reality show, for entertainment television. No matter how seriously the contestants take it, the public do not have to because it is light entertainment. Those who are voting for JS are voting for entertainment. Careful the show you produce the public may just follow through on it! :)
spencer, london, uk
The producers of the show thought they would have a laugh by giving John Sergeant to one of the worlds mush talented and accomplished dancers and teacher, Kristina Rihanoff. The joke backfired because is Kristina Rihanoff has the gift of making any partner look good. Too many of the other contestants are arrogant and are expecting votes from the public automatically.
Peter W, Winhester, UK
If this was a true dance contest there would be no public vote. The fact is that SCD is a Saturday night entertainment programme and as such the public vote is quite rightly favouring one of the more entertaining contestants, John Sergeant. And where's the harm in that?
Alan, Preston,
the judges and other contestants are taking it all too seriously!john isn't still in the show because people are voting for him out of sympathy, its because people like him!!i don't think any of the other contestants have stuck such a bond with the nation!he is singlehandedly raising all the money!
Charlotte, Birmingham,
Gosh this is a playground!! It makes me laugh. I don't watch the programme but I feel like voting for him myself just to punish this unprofessional slighting and childish behaviour. This is not really a competition, each 'celebrity' will be paid for the show, this is light entertainment. Grow up.
Kirsty, Wirral,
Just like its the publics right to vote for who they want its the contestants right to speak to who they want. They are within their rights to shun him if they want. They take it seriously whilst John trivialises their hard work and then gets rewarded by viewers. Tough Love like that of the viewers.
Christopher Ward, Coventry, Uk
I loathe all reality shows and wouldn't have watched this rubbish for anything. But I'm delighted to hear that the public are treating this nonsense with the gravitas it deserves.
I think I shall telephone my vote for Mr Sergeant from now on, even though I have never watched the programme.
David Garfield, London, UK
I've never been a regular viewer of "Strictly" before. Why am I (plus extended family across the generations) now glued to our TV every Saturday and Sunday - because of John Sergeant! He's brilliant. Strop on judges.
Peter Richards, Stamford, Lincolnshire
The Judges moan on about having to choose between two good dancers in the dance off...... (True John Should Go) i think Len should have a regular vote and not the deciding vote.... As in x factor when the votes are tied between judges it's down to whoever got the most public votes to stay!
Rachel, Leeds,
Is this all a bit of a smokescreen for the fact that Lisa Snowdon was worse than Cheri but was kept in presumably because she is dancing with Brendan? Isn't that why Lisa Snowdon was in floods of tears, because she knew that she was the worse of the two?
Aram, London,
Next year, viewers should be asked to vote for the person they want to leave the competion. In this way, any JS-type vote would have to be spread against a number of dancers, whereas the combined vote of fans who appreciate dancing would ensure that we would not suffer this ongoing weekly farce.
Kev Ball, Huntingdon,
I think people vote for him so that they can have a laugh at his expense. Just imagine him doing the jive!! I call it John baiting. Shame on you all.
Greta Bowman, Brighton,
I think people vote for him just to have a laugh at his expense. Imagine him doing the jive!! Its too hilarious. Shame on you all
Greta Bowman, Brighton,
I think that the Raving Monster Loony Party has a real chance in the next election.
John Ross, Eastbourne,
Has anybody who thinks any of this actually matters dwelt upon the simple fact that many of the votes John gets are effectively protest votes aimed at this ludicrous nonsense and the attitude of the oh so precious judges?
Mine votes are and shall continue to be acts of sedition.
Brian Herren, Guildford, UK
If this is a serious dance content, as many seem to insist, then scrap the phone voting and rely solely on the professional judges. I thought it was meant to be light entertainment and a way to raise money for charity (not to mention fill a ridiculous amount of BBC schedule), not an Olympic event.
Chris, Cheltenham, UK
I can't believe that other contestants actually take this seriousley! it's an entertainment show, based on a public voting format, designed to give viewer interaction and controversy. Its worked and I hope John wins just for the laugh! its out of johns hands and purely down to the public.
Ian, London,
Cherie Lunghi was looking for compliments because she's getting old. Please tell me why my licence fee should be spent on boosting her ego? I don't care if "celebrities" can dance, nor if they can fit through a cheekily-shaped hole in a wall. Saturday evening on BBC1 is dire.
Michael Lerner, Lancaster, UK
What is the weighting between the scores of the experts and that of the public? Equity should have it as perhaps 75% bias to the judges - this would sort out this issue.
Jon Quirk, Johannesburg, South Africa
I watch the show to see beautiful dancing. The first week I, like the judges, appauded John's efforts. But lets face it, it's a bit like granddad dancing with his granddaughter, nothing wrong with that but it's not what the program is about. Voters' are not doing John any favours by making fun
Margaret Parsons, Willerby, East Yorks
I would like John to go so I can enjoy better dancing for longer. But I don't blame John. For him it's a triumph of democracy, even if it is a triumph of mediocrity over substance. No different from people voting for politicians based on their smile or looks, despite it being more serious.
Paula, London,
John Sergeant has personality but this is a dance contest and it is sad that Cheri went out and John stayed in. My understanding is that he doesnt put in any where near the practice that the other contestants do as he can rely on the public vote by performing an amusing routine.
Dolly, Colchester, UK
If the judges/contestants are constantly going to slam the public's decision they should change the format of the show. However talentless, John Sergeant was picked for the show by producers and therefore has as much right to be kept in as any of the other contestants
Becky, London,
John Sergeant to WIN Strictly Come Dancing!!!!!
I'm voting for him all the way!
Lee Jones, London, UK
OK judges if it is a dance competition pick up the normal fee for
a competition and just vote no comments .Oh but then it wouldn't be entertainment.Beauty is in the eye of the beholder !
rogerb, bridport, uk
It's only a TV programme! If they really wanted the "best" dancer to win, they wouldn't allow the public to vote.
Neil, London, UK
The producers put him in so that they could benefit from a laugh at his expense but with truly sweet irony, the joke's on them.
alex, lymington,
Get real! What incentive do the rest of the contenders have for perfecting their dance when there is an obviously unfair vote going on. IT IS A DANCE COMPETITION and I am sure that John would have expected to have to make considerable improvement each week in order to secure his place.
Caroline, Dorset, UK
Puplic you are not doing John any favours. You are setting him up for a lot of animosity and a very big fall. He doesn't deserve it and you are putting him in the situation where I am sure he will be considering throwing the towel in.
Caroline, Dorset, uk
John shouldn't be compelled to step down. Consider that this show is about entertainment but also the enjoyment of an individual who is successful in another walk of life breaking into an alternative setting. This is not X factor, lives will not be changed by the result. Are we not entertained?
James Cullup, oxford,
If you don't want to know the result, don't ask the question.
The people have voted, ignoring the judges.
Isn't this democracy.
J R J , Glen Vine,
I think it is hilarious. Not only because JS keeps on getting voted on, but also because so many people posting here actually seem to believe that the show actually has any credibility as a demonstration of high art! For goodness sake, it is ballroom dancing. Get over yourselves.
Pete W, Bristol, UK
If the dancers and judges want to take part in a dancing competition, withdraw the public vote. Otherwise, respect the public who are paying your wages. I shall continue to vote for John. He is entertaining.
Sebastian White, Chelmsford, Essex
Perhaps the great British puiblic might just destroy the concept of what is a truly awful programme. I might just be prepared to vote for John in the hope that it contributes to the demise of the programme.
Dave Fogo, Rugby, Warwickshire
Goodness me what a fuss!! In these days of credit crunch and mass stabbings, how nice to see that something English has survived: our love of the underdog! What kind of career did Cherie think she was going to revive in those dresses? VOTE FOR JOHN!!!!
Andrea Goodman, Warsaw, Poland
Maybe the public are sending a message to the BBC eg "yes, strictly is fantastic and spectacular but maybe it has become too professional but John Sergeant shows the right spirit" So, instead of whinging maybe Aunty should heed the warning, remember the reason behind strictly or end the show
David, Burnley, England
Brits always support the underdog! JS may be a terrible dancer, but he's a real character that everyone likes personally. The public see themselves in JS, which is why they support him. A vote for John is a vote for us, and a vote against The System. It demonstrates our frustration & discontent!
Harry B, Bath, England
Even if JS got into the final he wouldn't win, so what is the fuss about. There wasn't this much hoo-ha when Julian Clary got into the final in the early days. It is an ENTERTAINMENT SHOW. The top 2 fighting it out is all that matters at the end. AND the more the judges whine the more will vote!
Dawn, Durham, UK
By shunning John Sargent, his rivals are punishing him for being popular with the voters and they are showing the mentality of bullies.
khim manning, london,
The show is not a "proper dance contest" as they are enlisting non-proffessional dancers. Therefore, all those people bitter for John's success should appreciate that the public enjoys other quailites other that perfect posture, feet position or timing. He is just great fun.
ana, Watford,
John's continued presence only delays the exit of the other, better dancers by a week. So what's the big deal?
Steffen Paessler, Bristol,
They should remove the ability for the public to vote if they want it to be just about the dancing. Seems evident to me that it is the program makers the contestants should have an issue with rather than the public. Or maybe they just can't take not being popular. Brits like the underdog!
Miesh, Stockport, England
It's a truly awful show without one redeeming feature. Well, yes, a bit harsh maybe, I suppose there are some dentists who appreciate seeing their handiwork given the fullest exposure that aching lips can provide.
Douglas Miller, Fulham,
1) John is FAR from the worst ever on the show 2) Why was he invinted in the first place. To be riduculed? 3) How dare the other contestants ignore John. RUDE 4) This is NOT a dance competition. It's a entertainment show. 5) Judges STOP insulting the audience. AND I am NO housewife!!
Chris, Preston, UK
It's a DANCE competition. If it were just entertainment and nothing else, it would be called Strictly being Charming, and John would be the rightful contender to win. It would be a real loss if this great programme became a boring, uninteresting, meaningless farce.
S, Leeds,
Poor Kristina. She is the attraction as well as the victim. I have yet to see anything entertaining from John Sargeant that I couldn't see in an an elephant park. Does he really have a sense of humour, is he entertaining? Gentleman he may be but for an entertainer - No.
Iain Pearson, Readin,
Poor John its not his fault, leave him alone, in other series really bad dancers got to the finals,have people forgotten. Also Cherie was not going to win her latin dances were rubbish.
Michael, London, U.K
Part of my entertainment is seeing the look on those pompous judges faces that John is still in the competition..I shall continue to vote for him.
Richard Philpotts, Stratford Upon Avon, UK
Whoever hired John Sargeant for Strictly never thought for a moment that he would win. He's there for the novelty value. I suspect some punters who have money on him are keeping him in the running. Personally, I've seen enough of JS now; we've all had a bit of a laugh, but enough already.
MaxC, London,
It's truly heartening to see the judges in this and other 'wannabe' programmes getting so irritated about this. The gushing hyperbole with which they appraise the majority of the 'celebrities' is finally alienating the public. Hopefully, this will see the imminent demise of this tired concept.
Allan Price, Wigan, UK
The other contenders should be ashamed of themselves. Just because John is not as good does not mean he does not work & prepare as hard as the others.
If the producers did not want John in with a chance of winning then they should not have cast him or anyone else of his standard in the first place
DannyC, Surrey,
The judges have to accept that it's a reality TV show which is funded by the license fee and where the public get to vote on who goes out and who stays in!
If they don't like it they can always push off and leave the rest of us to enjoy it - though that wouldn't be half as satisfying.....
Ian, Cambridge,
Yes John should have gone, but it makes for an exciting dance off. All except John are good dancers and this had to happen soon any way.
martin, lancaster, UK
I think all the Judges of this show should be sacked.
This is a tv show involving the public and for them to put John Seagent down is rude in the upmost and they should be ashamed of themselves.
Joan, Malaga, Spain
I agree with all those who say that this is NOT a dance competition but an ENTERTAINMENT show and if you ask the public for their views that's what you will get (plus all that lovely money) Yes if John had gone you would still have the same two dancing-off, one episode later.
No-one can complain.
Roland De La Harpe, Thames Ditton, UK
The BBC & ITV X Factor are all out to compete using sensationalism by trying to outdo each other. A deliberate ploy by the BBC to have Sergeant in to mix it all up. Public love him and are bound to go against the judges and vote for entertainment value instead of dance talent and ratings increase!
Peter Rose, Altrincham, UK
Now come all you people who vote for John, Yes he's a nice amiable person but, he is not a dancer! Would you hire an absolute idiot to do plumbing in your home? or, manage your bank accounts just because he's a very nice man...If anybody reading this say's yes! then god help us?
John R. O'Neon, Folkestone, England
Viewers do not watch Strictly as high art. They watch because of the charm of Bruce Forsyth, the histrionics and pomposity of the judges, the high camp fashion and, it must not be forgotten, the professionalism of the live music. After the self-important bitching I'll be voting for JS every week.
Lewald, Richmond upon Thames, England
Public votes are like public houses - some are open all hours and some open when they feel like it; when the public feel like it, they vote how they feel. This is a rebellion against three obnoxious judges and a poor chairman who has failed to chair....good old John - poor old dancing!
Derek Clifton, Andover, Hampshire, England
If the public keep John Sergent in the competition its not his fault. So competitors/celebrities or judges being rude to him are completely childish. Its much more interesting seeing a man learning to dance, than celebrities who have been able to dance from the start and perform as part of their job
anna, peterborough,
I think this whole matter perfectly sums up the state of the nation today. A vast pool of under-achievers who worship failure and mediocrity. To all those still voting for John: you obviously don't appreciate hard work, success and talent. Probably because you have none of the above yourselves.
Sandra, Manchester,
We have never seen the ''expert'' judges dance and get the perfect mark
Aaron, london, uk
Until the UK was Americanised with the "there's no second place", the UK was the home of grace, manners, etiquette and good sportsmanship. It was the taking part that counted and winning was merely a bonus. Glad to see he's in as it seems the public are revolting at being controlled by Reality TV!
Marcus, London, England
Why invite the likes of John Sargent to join if they don't want them to progress.
I also thought it was to raise money for cildren in need so the more people that vote the more money that's raised.
Rob Finch, Herne Bay, England
40,000 people signed a petition last week because they felt the lady voted out from the x-factor did not deserve to go. Flip the coin and here we have John Sergeant. If the public vote for him then he must stay. It is a talent competition with clear rules for survival - these must be adhered to.
Ian, Manchester,
I turn on each Saturday to watch John Sergeant. I like him. I want to be entertained and he is entertaining.
Let democracy prevail. Don't listen to the self-important judges.
Tom, London,
It's a Saturday night entertainment show for goodness sake and nothing more! John is making it really entertaining so just enjoy the show !
Melanie T, Birmingham,
John Sergeant can win the competition with the public backing he has. Just go and look at Facebook.
If it was a dancing competition it would be boring. It's just some lowbrow light entertainment so enjoy it for what it is. Besides, every mean remark I hear about John means I vote for him again.
Andrew W, Fareham,
What on earth do you expect when you ask the public? This is the very public that gave us Tony Blair for PM.
But put it in perspective, it's a silly talent show and none of the amateur dancers is much good. Sure they're better than poor John, but I'd much rather see the pros performing.
Geoff, Pontefract, England
Ballroom dancing is not a competitive sport, it is a fun thing to do. In that John Sergeant is the only one taking it seriously. Even in your photograph he has his eyes looking correctly at his partner where they should be. It is not a display, it is a partner based passtime. He dances like us!
Sue Doughty, Twyford, UK
It is baffling that the actual voting figures are not revealed just the result. Transparency might convince me that this is not a Producer/John Sergeant gimmic to promote controversy.
David Cotterell, Cheltenham, Uk
If she was a favourite to win why was she in the bottom two ?
This is reality TV's finest hour - the public taking control of what they want to watch rather than being forced to comply with a TV channels whims and wishes. If only we could vote off some of the judges it would be perfect.
Steven, Watford,
It's not his fault: it's the way the BBC configure the contest. It happened last time when Gabby Logan was axed and Kate Garroway remained.
This very controversy boosts ratings! Awake to the power and subtlety of the mass media, O buffoons!
How 'could' he 'lose' if he wanted to?
Janice, Witney, UK
"This is supposed to be a dance contest". Er, no it isn't - it's a "celeb" popularity contest; dance just happens to be the medium. I think "the public" are tired of having their intelligence insulted by phone in scandals and being told who they should vote for. I think John will probably win.
Alastair Johnson, Alicante, Spain
Isn't this meant to be a bit of fun and entertainment. Cherie Lunghi was gracious enough to recognise that.
heather, wales,
This takes me back a long way to the time our headmaster courted popularity by allowing the school to vote for the head boy. When the school voted in someone that the head didn't approve of, he 'asked' the winner to decline gracefully, and he appointed the boy he had in mind originally. Democracy.
Alan, Warrington, UK
Iam sick to death of the way the judges have treated Jonh Sergent. Yes it may be a dance compertion but its also a entertaiment show. If the juges dont like the way the public are voting then they should choose contestant that can dance from the start.
fay, Nottingham,
The BBC invited him and made the rules - so what's the beef?
Tony Gee, London,
These are the same people that have the vote to elect governments, worrying isnt it! They vote on personality & not substance. Do not think for a minute that this does not change come real elections.
Pete, St Albans, England
It is a trivial contest. Those involved (ego driven celebrities famous for being famous) should stop being so precious.
Richard, Melbourne,
I wish we could vote on who we wanted OUT of the competition. When there are several deserving contenders its hard to know who to vote for, and I therefore don't vote, but choosing one contender to vote off is a much simpler/fairer(?) task and I suspect more people would vote.
Pam Vee, Swindon, Wilts
Mocking people for trying to achieve something 'worthwhile?' Are we both talking about the same entertainment show which is meant to be light hearted fun? No one really cares who wins, do they?
It's much more entertaining to watch Craig getting annoyed than some z-listers dance competitively.
Andy, Lancaster,
I thought this was an entertainment show, if the public enjoy watching John Sergeant each week what's the problem?
Lighten up and just accept it as a bit of fun - isn't that what it is all about?
Lisa, Preston,
If these TV programmes (X Factor included) invite audience participation and are happy to take their money then how dare they have the arrogance to be critical of the public decision.
Maybe it is the scandals from previous years that are causing a low turn out which lead to perverse decisions
K McCormick, Birkenhead, England
HEY HEY HEY, come on calm down dont take life so seriously. Its just a piece of fun, have a laugh ITS LIGHT ENTERTAINMENT for gods sake. Keep going John dont listen listen to the old fuddy duddys.
phil barnes, chichester, uk
I've never watched this programme but I feel its time to phone in and vote for John, just to wind up the pompous judges and TV exec's who think they can tell the public who they can and can not vote for.
If they don't like the public vote, don't have one, or is it just for the MONEY ????
Steve, London,
Only one can win - and it was never going to be Cherie after the last couple of weeks - and it won't be John either. However, he works just as hard as other celeb dancers and he is highly entertaining. After all, this is not only a dance contest, it is an entertainment show.
B G, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
The talk about it being a dancing contest is undermined by the focus on human interest.
Training troubles and the emphasis on the 'journey' the contestants undertake; you never see that a pure contest.
The judges must take some blame. They are now personalities themselves, not just point-givers
Pete, Cardiff,
This is an entertainment programme which people are supposed to enjoy. It is not an elite dancing competition.
The public are asked to vote for who they want to see next week, not the best dancer. The phone votes is raising money for charity so if this is increasing the number of votes it is good.
Brian, London, UK
"The higher up you go, the more mistakes you are allowed. Right at the top, if you make enough of them, it's considered to be your style. said one Fred Astaire.
Chris Gillibrand, Brussels, Belgium
The show's producers want us to have a bit of a laugh at someone else's expense, so they put a few older people on the show who wont be able to keep up with the younger more athletic ones. Its payback time now, the public will ensure that this is now a race to become runner up in SCD 08.
nbc, London,
The English when cornered and bullied by the powers that be (the judges in this case) turn on the Establishment. John is in the great tradition of Eddie the Eagle, the plucky loser willing to take on all comers. Makes a great show and, as someone who never watches normally, I hope he wins.
William, Guildford, UK
Surely people are missing the point. The public is voting for Kristina who is by far the most attractive female dancer (professional or amateur) in the show.
Going forward, the producers may want to screen contestants for a modicum of both dancing skills and humility.
Go Kristina!
Steve , Windsor,
I can't believe some of the comments I've read on here!! Some people should be ashamed of themselves! It has NOTHING to do with John how the public vote. The rules of the game come down to who the public want in or out. If the people want John in so be it. GO JOHN!!!! Stuff all those sore losers!
Zak, Weybridge, UK
Perhaps the fact that Simon Cowell is bidding to buy Strictly is the real reason that a talentless dancer is heading to win this year's final.
A disaster like that and a timely bid could secure the franchise for a small percentage of its true worth and give Cowell control of weekend prime-time.
mark, Hull, UK
It is not a dance competition, it is entertainment. I haven't voted before but on hearing the way JS has been treated by the other competitors, then I'm going to next week. You can't open it up to the viewing public then complain about the way they vote. What conceit!
Derek Smith, Brighton, UK
Relax people.
This is light entertainment (very very light) - not a serious competition. What could be more entertaining than having the worst competitor win it, rather than some moderately talented hard working worthy. JS has my vote what what hey hey.
Dave, London, UK
The dresses are pretty, the ladies are mostly pretty, some of the men are pretty and the programme makers must be laughing pretty well all the way to the bank, especially as long as John Sergeant stays in the contest.
Success, thy name is publicity.!
A Weller , Southampton, U K
Why LEAST talented?
Dance is, we are told, "communication through movement". If Mr. Sargent has found a message to communicate that's commensurate with his physical abilities, rather than striving for one that's beyond them, I'd say that makes him a most talented dancer indeed.
Ian Kemmish, Biggleswade, UK
If the public are being eccentric in support for John the judges are partly to blame with some eccentric scoring in the past which has nearly put good dancers at risk of going out sooner than they should. Craig's scoring is particularly eccentric which is allowable if only it was consistently so.
Michael, Wokingham, UK
Message to John Sergeant from a fellow journalist:
You've had your fun, John, and we have all had a good laugh. But you must realise you are mocking people who are trying to achieve something worthwhile. Now be a good sport, say you've enjoyed yourself and resign.
John Alexander, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
If the judges want us to respect their voting without criticism then they have to respect the public vote without criticism also.
Remove the public vote and you lose the public interest. Let the public have their say and you risk losing both judges and dancers.
Damned either way it would seem?
Simon, Stockport,
John Sergeant: time to behave like a gentleman, now. Accept that less deserving people are leaving instead of you, retire from the competition with dignity, & press for the reinstatement of Cheri Lunghi.
That would surely do more for your reputation & conscience than dancing badly? Be a hero!
Ian Black, London, United Kingdom
And aren't we forgetting just how attractive Kristina is? She will get my vote every time, but I will vote three times for the couple I think really deserve support.
Geoff Walker, Norwich,
The public are voting for John because is he a 'nice chap'. It would be a gentlemanly thing to do to resign. The programme makers would need to find a believable reason, however. Worst ever celebrity dancer? No! Remember Quentin Wilson? I teach dancing, and have never seen anyone as hopeless as he.
Derek D., North London , England
How can anyone possibly have any animosity towards John Sergeant? He doesnt decide to stay in the competition. It is the television licence holders - who have paid to be entertained, and have paid to vote.
Damon James, Windsor, UK
Its a disgrace the way John is being treated by the other contestants, hope he wins the rest have just shown why they shouldn't.
Harry, Newport,
Why was John Sargeant invited to take part if he was not supposed to have an equal chance of winning? Or can the winner only be someone young and athletic? In which case, was he being set up to lose? Good luck to a good sport and good competitor.
Alicia Moss, Aberystwyth,
It's been fun to watch - but now it's time for John to go.
Anna, London, United Kingdom
Popularity is the key. They rake in the money from the public to decide who they want to see go through, and complain that the public aren't voting what they want.
Its extremely hypocritical for anyone who thinks otherwise. Remove the voting/money and judge on dancing. They wouldn't get the viewers
Ian, Eastbourne, Sussex
Take John Sergeant out of the equation and the same dance-offs would still have to take place but a week later-so had John been voted off last week, Cherie and Lisa would still have come in the bottom two this week. Regardless of John good dancers will be knocked out from now on -that's the game.
Mick Hackett, Wigan, Lancs
Richard Burston is of course quite incorrect. This IS a popularity contest because that is what the rules as they stand are made for. If the gulf in the judges marks was given full credit in the scoring system and not reduced to nothing by first to last ranking THEN it would be a dancing competition
Barry Etheridge, Glastonbury, UK
At last perhaps true reality, its a programme for the licence payer and the licence payer likes John Sargeant, shame on the other contestants and judges , WE PAY WE SAY. The laugh here would be that John S goes onto to win the programme , a wake up call to these trite and tedious programme makers.
Ben davingoff, bradford, united kingdom
This is NOT a dancing contest, it is an entertainment programme on the tv. It's purpose is to entertain people on a Saturday night. There are endless dancing contests for people who want to watch good dancing.
If John Sargent went out this week then Cherie Lungi would have just gone next week.
Kate, London,
Well done John, keep gracing the dance floor with gentlemanly dignity. The show would be pretty boring without you. Maybe next year they'll make you a judge!
Juliet Jarvis, Sanderstead,
And again this week the two left footed journalist and his partner managed to kno