Strictly in coaching ‘fix’ shock
Pair accused by angry fans
STRICTLY favourite Alexandra Burke has been branded a “cha-cha cheat” over her links to judge Craig Revel Horwood.
Angry fans say the former X Factor champ may have an unfair advantage over her rivals.
STRICTLY’S new favourite Alexandra Burke has been accused of being a “cha-cha cheat’’ after it emerged she has links to judge Craig Revel Horwood.
On Saturday night the singer, 29, blew away TV viewers with a stunning Tina Turner-inspired jive.
It earned her three 10 out of 10s – the first of the series – and took her at the top of the leaderboard. Craig said of her performance with Gorka Marquez: “I have no idea where all that came from, darling, you created a nuclear reaction to split the atom. Incredible.”
Bookies have made Alexandra the new favourite to win the BBC series.
But the former X Factor champ has become embroiled in a favouritism row after it was revealed she has worked with Craig before.
He choreographed and directed her in a touring stage musical production of Sister Act earlier this year.
Furious fans claimed it could give Alexandra an unfair advantage. One wrote: “Is it only me who thinks Alexandra is a cheat?”
A second said: “Craig directed and choreographed Sister Act so it’s not surprising there’s favouritism.”
And a third added: “Strictly is a joke. Alexandra is a professional dancer who’s choreographed by Craig!”
Even Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan yesterday called Alexandra “a professional”.
But the BBC rejected the allegations. A show spokesman said: “These claims are utter nonsense.”
A source added: “Craig was the only judge who didn’t score Alexandra a 10 – and got booed for giving her a nine. Alexandra and Craig have both publicly talked in interviews about working on Sister Act.”