Chris McCausland & Dianne Buswell Couple's Choice to Instant Karma - John Lennon ✨ BBC Strictly 2024

[@amyk9813]

Reminded me of Rose's dance with the moment of silence. Seeing the pitch black was a much needed reminder of how incredible Chris is to even step on the dancefloor, let alone dive into each week head first. Whether he wins or not - he has my total respect and admiration. As does Dianne!

[@callumsannachan7135]

Yeah

[@seasidestitches615]

@@callumsannachan7135Absolutely ❤🥳❤

[@chamalismith]

Brilliantly said ❤ he has come such a long way ❤ and their partnership is so beautiful ❤ I feel v grateful that both Chris and Tasha have really kind and experienced partners who have won and reached finals before. I think it massively helps xx

[@vallee3140]

@@beverleyevans3262 I agree slightly, yes he did pick her up in the dark, but it also showed what world he lives in. I think he is incredible.

[@dorathepoodle]

@@beverleyevans3262 Yawn yawn yawn. You do know he does everything in the dark? He did all those lifts during the Salsa by himself in the dark for everyone to see. You honestly think they got a stepladder out or what, she was placed on his shoulders? It wasn't a gimmick. And who said their intention was to be "groundbreaking"? You can feel inspired impressed and in awe of something and someone without it needing to be groundbreaking. It was to surprise the audience and he purposely covered her eyes to highlight (for a brief moment) how he experiences the world. Very poignant.

[@JoeBleasdaleReal]

Chris absolutely nailed it in his VT - this is such a brilliant example of positive representation for the disabled community. A lesser celebrity might have used Strictly to be all self-indulgent and “woe is me”, but there isn’t an ounce of that in Chris. The legacy he’s leaving is that we’re just like you and me. His couple’s choice was fun fun fun, because there can be so much joy in your life, even if you’re disabled, which is so often portrayed on TV as a negative, life-limiting thing. It’s just another facet that doesn’t detract from you being your authentic self, in Chris’ case, a hilariously loveable trier who’s just won the nation’s hearts for that reason. More of this please! ❤

[@dorathepoodle]

Beautifully said

[@helenaMe325]

Sorry, what does VT mean?

[@halflink]

@@helenaMe325 I'm not sure what abbreviation means (need to Google), but it's a pre-recorded video segment they show before each couple's dance. It normally consists of a couple going somewhere or meeting with someone related to the topic/theme of their week's dance, explaining how/why this week's dance is important to them (so they give more context) and some moments from the training sessions. Chris's VT was very moving. In it he briefly talked about how he lost vision gradually in his twenties, how he was in denial about it happening, then said that he was asked to do Strictly several times and each time he refused because he was afraid. Then that his participation was less for the disable people, but more for the able people, for them to see that we're all the same, really. And hence the song choice. That it's about kindness. I need to rewatch the VT to make sure I related it correctly. Probably worth making it a separate comment in case Strictly channel doesn't upload the video.

[@helenaMe325]

​@@halflinkthank you! 👍😊

[@TJD_6812]

VT = Video Tape.

[@Della624]

The last spin with Dianne aloft and the transition from top to middle to floor deserved a ten all by itself. How Chris can do that without getting dizzy or dropping Dianne is beyond me. It was full on, no holding back. Got all my three votes and will continue to do so because it really is extraordinary what Chris and Dianne are achieving, and if I had a Paddle with a *10* on it I'd be raising it to show that I mean what I say, unlike some of the judges there...

[@debbiethomas3687]

How does he spin with no reference point to spot? He isn't the best dancer, but he is absolutely the most awesome dancer and the most courageous.

[@merlynwells]

he jumps off the stool - lands perfectly - I adore this couple - watching from San Antonio, Texas. This is magical.If they don't win I hope they receive recognition of what they have done here

[@lindaaitken7679]

Even if they don't actually win... they are this year's winners ❤

[@halflink]

That moment alone was OMG. The chair is quite tall and to jump without seeing (and visually estimating the distance) where you are going to land, how to do you ensure that you don't injure yourself? I think that was pure memory/timing effort, which can't cease to astonish me.

[@RosaCurness]

I always need to watch their dances over and over because I notice different things when I do. Early thoughts, Chris' posture looked very upright, its improved immensely. Footwork was spot on as usual. How he covers the floorspace with no references is beyond astonishing. And those lifts, what trust they both have in each other.How he learns to do them is amazing. Hes not an athlete, he sits on a stool for a living, lift technique is remarkable. Boo to the judges with their marks. Love them both. In 20 years of watching this show I cant think of another pairing with the bond they have.

[@turtleboi11037]

I am not at all over exaggerating when I say that this routine, saved my love for Strictly Come Dancing.

[@cynthiaherbert9889]

Totally agree!

[@TripstarrSherrie]

They are my winners 100% this is what strictly is all about

[@rafaelyaguaro2842]

No matter what happens, Chris and Diane made their mark in Strictly, and TV, history! Week after week I'm beyond amazed what he achieves and what Diane does to get them there, is beyond impressive how content she manage to make him do! My money is on them to win this series without zero doubt whatsoever!

[@DianneClewes]

Chris McCausland saving Strictly dance after dance. He is truly inspirational, he puts the work in every week & has been better than some previous sighted contestants. Chris & Dianne to win!

[@debbicook1584]

They are sensational, how they came out of the darkness into THAT lift was phenomenal! How did Di manage to get up there???? Wildly underscored, SEVEN CRAIG?? Chris and Sarah for the final as they both move me every week!

[@cynthiaherbert9889]

Fed up with the scores the judges are giving, they have favourites!

[@ngurimujeveii1906]

Dianne is the best teacher so proud of her and i salute Chris 🫡

[@Kels-C66]

Best part of this dance is Chris's smile! He looks like he's having fun! That's the best part of dance, is if your enjoying yourself! This dance was amazing! Rooting for you guys from the USA!

[@EthanBell-h5x]

That was incredibly moving and powerful. Easily the best dance of the night. Some couple’s choices I often find feel a bit too freestyle to the point it feels quite messy and the choreography doesn’t feel particularly clean so what I liked about this dance was how it felt clean choreographically. Also, I loved the moment where it went pitch black. For me, it’s up there with that moment in Rose’s Couple’s Choice from a few years ago, it was just so clever in my opinion and such gorgeous storytelling in us being able to see his world. One of the best couple’s choices I’ve ever seen. 10

[@Teddychicken]

I just read Dianne was throwing up backstage before they went on. Imagine how much extra pressure that put on them both, and they still did this amazing dance. RESPECT.

[@Della624]

@Teddychicken Could be why Chris asked her a couple of times if she was alright at the end of their dance. She clung on to him for quite a while after before moving to Tess Daly, which is unusual.... it's usually the other way round :)

[@somersetwildhedgehogs]

@@Della624 Yes, she's been ill all day and also missed pro rehearsals on Sunday.

[@Rose-bd9dt]

​@@somersetwildhedgehogsDo the pros not even get Sunday off? They work so hard! Where did you see that btw?

[@adriennethomas7174]

I never watch this programme normally but love Chris and wanted to see what all the fuss was about. I was moved to tears. The man is an inspiration and a beacon showing what can be achieved.Kusos too to his amazing partner.

[@catherinelee-h2c]

The reason I feel they will win ( and deserve too ) as well - is the power of their connection and the love they shine out into the world and Chris's message and how is is a living embodiment of just how much people with a disability CAN do! He is amazing and so natural and I love Dianne and how she has taught him with so much skill and grace.

[@nicetomeetmew]

Well said

[@_KarenS]

Arguably his breakthrough dance. Yes, he has shown good musicality before - but somehow there's something just 'more' here. Like he's worked past the 'how am I going to do this' stage and entered the 'I AM doing this, I am enjoying it, and I am expressing myself/my character through it' stage. Firmly believe that he's been trying hard out of respect for Dianne - and because that's who he is - but here there's something else. Like he's made dancing his thing now.

[@ShadySidebury]

Totally agree! Thinking back to their foxtrot, and then comparing it with this. He's absolutely 'in it' here. Take care, Casey

[@G44ever]

I said it when Chris was the first celeb named & I'll say it every week, Chris is absolutely sensational & he & Dianne have to lift that glitterball!! Such an inspiration for everyone, love them!! I admire him for being so far out of his comfort zone and nailing it. I adore her for her patience and trust, their partnership is incredible. Even if they dont win, Dianne needs extra special recognition for the work she has put into this series xxx ❤️❤️🪩🪩🪩🥰🥰

[@philipowen3370]

100%

[@kellybarton929]

Another brilliant dance from Chris and Dianne. The usual tears of joy from me. My winners!!

[@bigrobfm]

These two can do no wrong as far as Im concerned, Chris must be so far outside his comfort zone and Diane’s trust and confidence in him is overwhelming! Give them the Glitterball now!

[@janetsnakehole-macklin6426]

Such a joyous dance, I couldn’t stop smiling the entire time 😊 this was a partnership made in strictly heaven, love Chris and Dianne ❤

[@themancunian777]

Love the blackout and then Chris and Dianne coming back with that spinning lift 😊👍

[@RogbodgeVideo]

I bet John looked down and grinned at that!

[@gracebird3271]

Beautiful! The choreography suited him to a tee; kudos to Dianne for being such a sensitive and clearly encouraging teacher. And it continues to be a pleasure to watch Chris grow on this show!

[@Bee-Ata]

It'll be 3 votes from me every week until, and including, the Final. I can't help it, they move me so much - I keep finding myself repeating: "This is Bloody Bonkers" and "Go On Chris!". Can't help it

[@jacquelineosullivan3076]

Me too! I get so emotional watching them and they are the only pair I really look forward to seeing each week. The others bore me, apart from Jamie . It’s just more of the same.

[@TopCatUK76]

I love Chris and Diane so much. For so many reasons. They are brilliant!

[@dianeblackwell2687]

I watch this every day for inspiration. Chris is what Strictly is about. His courage and commitment are breathtaking.

[@brigiddubhe]

Same here. Watching this beautiful, happy dance and these two amazing people lifts me up when I'm feeling down and just generally puts a big smile on my face. It's truly inspiring.

[@CymruEmergencyResponder]

You don’t need vision to truly live. Bravo Chris, bravo!

[@dianesilva1078]

Amazing, I love the way Chris plays homage to his hometown of Liverpool. Chris has great timing and musicality , they say if one of your senses fails all the others kick into a higher level. Seems so. Chris to win.

[@blossomsfan]

Voted for him at least over 20 times tonight..am still in tears he won. I struggle with confidence an i'm someone thats scared to push themself out their comfort zone. Chris and Dianne - you mean so much to me ❤️ congrats on your win ❤️

[@tracygiven2984]

Iv started watching strictly again purely because Chris is on it, this proves if we have a good outlook on life, trust people ( the good ones with good intentions ) it’s gives me amazing feeling watching Chris dance 🙏🙏🙏🙏 Go ed Chris Laaad. You’ll never walk alone pal. Xxxxxx

[@sewershark3802]

This is a dance which I will hold very close to my heart. No matter what you can always follow your dreams and do anything you want. We all must fight our setbacks and shine on, love you Chris and Dianne! I hope you win this entire thing ❤

[@MaddieStroll]

This is Dianne's season❤

[@lucindamiao722]

I get emotional every time i watch chris dance 😢he truly is an inspiration ❤ for me he is what strictly is all about complete novice getting up and giving it a bloody good go, only its even harder for him and he is amazing🎉.i hope him and dianne win❤❤

[@dilinij12]

This dance is all the more impressive knowing just how sick Dianne was. Cant believe she got through a dance with this much spinning around. A true pro!!!

[@truthseeker1867]

Not forgetting the fact that Chris is completely blind aswell

[@PatriciaBrown1711]

What was wrong with her?

[@CestxMoixBaybee]

@@PatriciaBrown1711she had a stomach bug

[@vallee3140]

@@PatriciaBrown1711 she had a stomache upset

[@PatriciaBrown1711]

@@vallee3140 Well she is a trooper doing that while being ill.

[@suefisher3037]

Something to remember - we all shine on

[@L.JPawtraits]

I've always been a fan of Chris. He's hilarious and such an inspiration. And I now have a new found respect for Dianne. I never watch this show and the first time I ever heard of her was seeing her on house of games and weakest link. She wasn't very clued up on knowledgeable things and was very child like. But she obviously is an extremely talented dancer and to be able to teach Chris to this standard is amazing. She's clearly fantastic and I'm now a fan 😊❤

[@heidiblades4811]

This definitely reminded me of Rose’s dance with the moment of silence. I really enjoyed this dance!

[@SuperSunflower333]

I can't believe how well he does these dances, so proud of both of them❤

[@barbaramcdonald4838]

They make me cry. 😂. So pure. So connected. ❤

[@hayleykpt]

such an amazing way to share chris' story !! thought they deserved a higher score but they are incredible either way

[@sorakatie1661]

chris and dianne do something every week that means more than the judges scores. i'm so pleased for them both that they're having such a good time.

[@karlnaylor8757]

This man is brilliant 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🍀

[@lindaaitken7679]

Their instagram videos every week are so funny too ❤

[@matthewserban45]

Chris and Dianne, Couple Choice: Wow!! This was absolutely brilliant. I loved the choreography, the dancing, Chris has been an inspiration this whole season, and this was no different! The lifts were magnificent, musicality off the charts!! 10!!!!! Massively underscored I thought, that 7 from Craig was ridiculous.

[@fionamercer1742]

Absolutely ridiculous!

[@lornaborgdebattista7298]

This uplifting choreography by the amazing Dianne was yet another example of how determined Chris is to keep giving his utmost ❤ well done to you both - you are fantastic and deserve to win hands down! 🌟🌟

[@nofakk0]

This choreo was not by Dianne. :) She's tagged the two choreographers in her story tonight!

[@lornaborgdebattista7298]

@nofakk0 I didn't realize, sorry! So well done to her two choreographers too!

[@NatalieHarkins]

Couples choice salsa and Argentin tango are all considered specialised so the get outside choregraohers in those styles to help them create a rountine

[@halflink]

@@NatalieHarkins Didn't know that but makes sense, because they are not part of the ballroom 10.

[@kerryshepherd5676]

Every single week Chris amazes me with his dancing. He does it with such great joy and confidence which is helped by having such an amazing partnership with Dianne. She has been so brilliant this season with Chris and how she's taught him throughout all his dances. Like Anton said if there was an award for one of the pro's then she would get it.

[@anyacanna5121]

I have watched nearly all of there dances by now and I just want to cry from sheer joy! Warms my heart.

[@vallee3140]

I watch them all once more every day, loved him.

[@karendyba5213]

You were both brilliant well done to both of you I’m Sure you will be in Blackpool next week good luck

[@TheSunshineHappy]

Amazing! The darkness at the end and cut to the lift was incredible 💛

[@kathrynnorman2253]

Team Chris and Dianne for the win. Even if they don't win, they have my utmost respect and have given it a red hot crack ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@michaeljbuckley]

Class to be fair. Jason Smith done something similar for he's appearance in the Irish equivalent fo DWTS. Same impact, it's an outstanding achievement by Chris and Dianne

[@elizaosullivan6641]

Yeah I believe his pro wanted to be blindfolded for a dance as well.

[@ravenclawrumba7096]

What a breath of fresh air, this was so funny and so well choreographed, the lifts were amazing and just fun. 8/10

[@kathleenoneill5470]

I'm in tears They have to win 🏆

[@halflink]

I have allocated a budget for phone calls and called it 'for Chris and Dianne'. The budget size? As much as necessary to help save them from the dance offs and then to win 😁

[@kathleenoneill5470]

@halflink I'm not in UK so they won't let me vote😡

[@halflink]

@@kathleenoneill5470 😭I normally don't vote except for the 3 votes on the website, but this time I'm seriously invested (excuse the pun)

[@crockkett]

@@kathleenoneill5470 OH NO just seeing this now, you could have voted on the bbc strictly home page , go & sign up to the bbc website & your ready to go for next yr , may i ask where are you ?? how do you get to watch the show ?????

[@carolinemarie6858]

They always brings me to tears. This is what Strictly is all about!

[@dianegarciaprieto2118]

They do great lifts, incredible. ❤️💙

[@lisaR.3]

1:05 Showstopper lift from Dianne 😮 wonder what she’ll pull out the bag for Blackpool considering the extra dancers and different ballroom for Chris to adjust around wowza she’s a diamond 💎 Chris keep up the hard work you’re an inspiration ❤

[@eddie_dee_123]

Would love to see an American Smooth from them at Blackpool (like Hamza & Jowita's with that iconic lift at the end -- I bet Chris would nail it!).

[@Moonshadows_Musings]

Chris is utterly amazing and so inspirational. ❤❤❤

[@cambelio]

I consider myself a man’s man, so I don’t usually watch things like this. However, my girlfriend was watching (honest), and I just happened to be there to catch it. This routine 'almost' brought a tear to my eye (which is shocking as I didn't even realise I had tearducts!). I secretly voted for him - come on, Chris!

[@Teddychicken]

I love this❤

[@vallee3140]

keep voting for him, he must win.

[@marcharris6391]

What a joyful and exuberant dance to see! Sheer brilliance.

[@MsMoem]

Simply amazing!! Chris and Dianne to win!! :-)

[@blossomsfan]

Still makes me tear up 😢❤. We can learn so much from Chris and Dianne ❤

[@christinebrown7666]

absolutely stunning amazed every week how he does it and Diane is incredible well done guys

[@vivwass6866]

Chris has come a long way and doing really well. The trust they have in each other. Diane us Fiji f a fabulous Job ❤

[@mariadangelo2943]

What a luvly dance Chris an Dianne brilliant an it was very emotional dance esp wen it went dark very powerful an what lifts..sendin u both gd vibes hugs..luv frm me maria in west london..xx 🫂😢❤️🙋‍♀️

[@megsunset]

What a perfect dance to convey a perfect message ❤ An absolute beautiful and joyful dance!

[@thesundancekid1972]

He is such an inspiration and she is clearly a phenomenal teacher. How she does what she does beggars belief and for him to lift, start on chairs and steps, use props or even change direction is staggering. I'm so torn on them. I just don't want them to win through the sympathy route. Rose was one of the best dancers the show has ever had and her victory was deserved on pure talent. I'm leaning towards Sarah and Vito, but this was something very special.

[@MarieRMilne]

Oh my word That was joyful and amazing 🤩 If you saw this for the first time, you would never know Chris was totally blind What an achievement Diane has been an awesome coach 🥳

[@hollymatton474]

I loved this routine so much! Chris isn't the best dancer but what he has achieved is remarkable! His partnership with Dianne is incredible and I love them so much! ❤❤

[@caroleallen2837]

How is Chris able to do it so well ? They are an amazing couple of dancers . Well done 👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@BritishAdam]

Such an inspiring dance, and I really hope Chris makes it to the finals. He nails it to the best he can each week, and I've no idea how he manages to handle cues & timings with his lack of vision.

[@user-ed7iq7pm1j]

Really enjoyed watching this dance. Well done.

[@Leanne2401]

Wanted Chris to win after I saw his first dance, him and Dianne are just something else, after this dance I feel like the glitterball is his 🪩❤️

[@margaretrodgers1411]

They are brilliant .

[@etpuffins]

This was just joyous ❤❤❤ Love them so much

[@ReneeMPhoenix]

Best couple ever on the show!

[@InaMorrow]

Absolutely brilliant night really enjoyed Chris and Diane performance 😊❤❤❤they both showed anything is possible 😀 well done guys

[@alisonmccannoffline]

Brilliant Couples Choice by Chris & Dianne to the song Instant Karma by John Lennon I thought that Chris lifting Dianne which was absolutely amazing ever which was absolutely brilliant Chris and Dianne truly 💯% deserve to win the final and the Glitterball Trophy?🕺💃🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🏆

[@mellybeetaylor8177]

This brings me joy and smile! My heart burst and it was put together really well! The darkness and then burst of light was simply incredible! 10/10

[@linzertube]

Just an AMAZING and BEAUTIFUL dance!!! Love your music choice, and you both really looked like you were having loads of fun! I know that I did while watching it!❤❤

[@markhooper4532]

Bravo .... Chris and Dianne.Fabulous routine.

[@melissacantrill13]

Wow that’s amazing Chris picking up Diane in dark and spinning when he’s totally blind he can’t see what he’s doing talent and he trusts they both trust each other aww

[@jacquelineosullivan3076]

His posture!👏👏 Their pure joy at the end knowing they did a great job. The best pairing ever on strictly. Had me in tears again. I really hope they lift that glitterball in a few weeks🙏🙏

[@FLAVEEARR]

Ladies and gentlemen - your 2024 winners. *doffs cap*

[@poppyCuppycake]

ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE!! 💯❤️

[@user-cl8xh6bc9y]

Such an inspiration ✨️

[@sarahdoyle1099]

They’re fantastic! Congratulations to them both. ❤❤❤

[@TSewell67]

That was truly brilliant. Chris and Dianne for the glitterball this year!! Tx❤️

[@charlotte241000]

He just amazes me he can't see and dances like that its just so awesome

[@nonondriessen]

This time, it was Dianne who needed the cuddle to settle her emotions of pride and success. Ļķķķ

[@Jordi_Ventura]

Magnificent & elegant dance performance 👍❤

[@ELU2334]

I can‘t stop watching this. It makes me so happy.❤

[@judyrussell1853]

This was just an unforgettable moment on Strictly when it went pitch black. A moment in Chris's lived experience. He is showing his abilities and forgetting about disabilities. I just love him, and he's quite funny, too.

[@halflink]

This Couple's Choice really should have been uploaded together with the VT, it makes the routine even more powerful. But even without it, choreography is outstanding (I'm not watching Strictly every year but it's the first CC I've seen that incorporated so many ballroom steps) and execution is almost flawless (bar a couple of hesitations at the beginning). The lifts. Omg. The moment of darkness was expected and fit perfectly into the choreography.

[@mayltlancs]

It was lovely and resfreshing to see something other than what seems to have become 'normal' barefoot for couple's choice x (though there has been more variety in recent weeks)

[@ShadySidebury]

Hell yes. Really needs the VT to maximise the impact.

[@halflink]

@@ShadySidebury Posted separate comment with transcript as the next best thing 🤷‍♀

[@bellatricks6647]

What a pair of legends! Would absolutely make my year to see them lift that glitterball 💃🕺🏻🪩

[@jogle24]

It's very unfortunate for the other participants but there can only be one winner. What is being shown on a weekly basis is some of the most remarkable stuff that's ever been on TV. When he was announced as a contestant I feared for him. I was completely wrong and what he achieves on a weekly basis is astonishing. There are others on the show who are obviously better dancers but they are not close to achieving what he does. As Anton alluded to last night Diane deserves a special trophy for the work she is doing as well.

[@mickyork41]

Just incredible. I love this so much.

[@julieashton1173]

There both amazing she must be a top notch teacher too.

[@22Phantasm]

They're. As in They are.

[@joannedelaney3866]

Love this. You got all of my votes ❤

[@LisaFerguson-lw8il]

Wow! Dancing in that period of darkness was a reminder of how wonderful they are on the dance floor. Dianne is an excellent coach. I follow her Utube channel and she treats Chris like just another partner. There is lots of laughter and long hours preparing. Chris is a great guy. He trusts Dianne and is throwing himself into dancing. I really hope to see them reach the final. They deserve to flourish.

[@skyewithane9409]

I domt watch strictly but have made a point of watching Chris' dances because I think hed a fantastic comedian and wanted to know how hes getting on and its amazing how much his confidence has grown and you can see the trust he has in Dianne compared to week one where he seemed scared to move in case there ws something in the way!