I mean what is this? This kind of a performance makes you come back to rewatch it 20 times. It is just mind blowing someone can nail this in only 5 days of rehearsals and to this level. For all of you saying that Layton is a pro dancer, there are thousands of them that would not be able to do anything outside of their genre. This man was born sprinkled with a little extra talent. Amazing
I mean any musical theatre professional dancer would be able to do this sort of thing after their training- it doesn't mean it isn't incredible but it does mean I am more impressed by others because I don't expect it from them
@@kitnal4143 go ask les dennis to dance like this and only then, you’ve proved your point. Almost everyone in strictly who has been great, all have some dancing background including Ellie. Lets stop being hypocrites here 🤣
@Sg_dua again, dance background ≠ professional dancer. Layton is amazing but he is a professional dancer who dances for a living and has done so (and trained for it) since a very young age. What does Les have to do with anything? Was he secretly pro this entire time?
nikita telling him “you make me shine with how much you are shining” is maybe one of the loveliest compliments ever. they have such a special connection and i’m so glad we got to see them dance together this year and produce such amazing routines! yet another history making dance that was simply perfect!
I was already emotional feeling so proud of them during the final but Nikita's words brought tears to my eyes. There'll never be another partnership like them. I'm so glad we got to see them dance and have fun together. Their friendship is so beautiful.❤
Nikita has been able to absolutely thrive and live his best life as a performer with Layton as his partner. We talk about Johaness and Annabelle but these two have such a beautiful connection. And I truly love and appreciate how Nikita has loved and embraced Layton throughout this entire series with NO hesitation. It’s heartwarming to witness.
Yes exactly this :)! In this partnership he can go all out with his energy, clothing and being a showman hehe. Ánd with being open, soft, emotional and affectionate. ❤️
This routine took the Charleston to another level. The amount of work Layton and Nikita must have put in to achieve that level of perfection must have been phenomenal. No matter what type of dance he did before Strictly it wasn’t ballroom or Latin - what he has achieved has been done through sheer hard work and he deserves to be in the final - no question.
@@marcusskyfallI am sure there are many professional dancers who would not pull off such performances. He is not a ballroom or latin dancer. Let’s applaud talent when we see it
@ronaldsmith2013 oh bore off! The show has always had dancers with professional experience participating, it would be unwatchable if it didn't, if you can't see the joy of watching Layton & Nikita dance then it's your loss.
@@ronaldsmith2013 And we've seen how boring that is. I'll take the Laytons and Danny Macs of this world thank you....pure entertainment and passion. They never let them win anyways.
The Charleston is my favorite dance that they do on Strictly and I am very particular about them. This was absolutely everything I could ever want from a Charleston and more. Checks every one of my boxes. Well worth waiting for the semi-finals to have our boys knock this one out of the park. I didn't think I'd see a Charleston I liked more than Aj and Kai's ever on Strictly but this beats it by a respectable margin. Absolutely well done Layton and Nikita. Love and support from Massachusetts in the USA.
Layton's ability to bring out a side of Nikita I've always observed leaves me speechless; it's truly beautiful. Nikita won't find anyone better than Layton, as they consistently bring out the best in each other. Their partnership is a thing of beauty. Shine as the stars you are, beyond the confines of Strictly. My boys smashed both Rumba and Charleston getting the perfect score again. What a Charleston, Craig standing ovation, well deserved. I knew they would slay it, my boys are making history. I’m still catching my breath. 🥵💯👍🏾
They are just so crazy, anyone Nikita gets after Layton will be a downgrade. He could literally transform every idea Nikita had into the reality, Nikita didn't have to hold back at all. Again, all these people say Layton is a pro dancer...come on. Nikita is a ballroom/Latin dancer and I bet he couldn't do the Irish jig or breakdance like a pro. It takes a skill to do all of that, and Layton (like him or not) has this amazing talent and ability to learn anything. If they don't win I am done with Strictly. Sorry but no other couple can top them
I wholeheartedly share the sentiment, particularly as a woman deeply committed to LGBTQIAP+ advocacy. His remarkable resilience and unwavering support for others, coupled with his unparalleled dedication to training, set him apart. If they don't emerge victorious, I'd find it difficult to continue with the show. @Ana-cv6kn
Are you telling me you were really surprised with graigs standing ovation and layton getting all 40s ? You need to wake up It was all planned Nigel leaves i dont think he was really injured scores get transferred to the semis and layton gets another 40 to make sure he gets to the top of the leader board almost like the show was all planned and the winner already picked ...
Re-watching this extraordinary dancing couple! Even if Strictly 2024 has started a few weeks ago, I still have to come back and rewatch Layton and Nikita dancing, they are extraordinary together, and they are the REAL winners!! Listen to the audience, they all agree with me!!
I'm starting to think that Layton has magic feet. I've seen him defy gravity many times in this series of Strictly, but I could hardly believe what I was seeing last night. To backflip from lying down to standing up, to do that sideways cartwheel together with Nikita in that crazy X shape, for them both to fearlessly leap up onto those flimsy-looking chairs... this is the most gymnastic, fantastic Charleston ever. Even when they span those umbrellas they were in perfect synch. This was of a Hollywood musical standard. Gene Kelly would have been proud. The BBC will likely play clips from this awesome routine in trailers for Strictly in years to come.
Wow so bonkers. It's just incredible. Amazing choreography. I can't get over those lifts, that first one, for Nikita to hold him up so high there, and to look so effortless when it really can't be easy. Those cartwheel lifts, I've never seen any as good as that before, so much strength and synchronicity.
A match made in heaven ....Nikita reaching his teaching ability and Layton learning from him what he can achieve ...both reaching the best ever ...perfection at its best ... X
And still they’re going, after the flip…and still they’re going after the cartwheels…and still they’re going…I was exhausted just watching, and my mouth was literally hanging open at this routine. The energy was off the charts. And the height that Layton achieves when he jumps or is lifted is phenomenal. A 40 well deserved.
I thought it couldn't get better then their Paso Doble but this dance gives it a run for it's money!! I'm gagging it's so amazing!!!!! love them so much 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
I've seen Singin in the Rain more than 30 times in my life, and this by Layton & Nikita, was pure Kelly & O'Connor. I love this partnership so much; I think they make each other shine. What a joy they are to watch.
I actually think Nikita and Layton taught each other and brought the best out of each other. It is a fabulous partnership of two handsome and insanely talented individuals.
Layton was not a pro dancer I found this on the here...Ellie did ballet, modern street dance. Layton did jazz, tap, and ballet “to a certain degree” When Layton has ever been in shows he's had to train for the parts whatever he had to do in the shows as he went along.t@@ronaldsmith2013
This dance made me silent. It was perfect! Love love love it. Layton & Nikita do their best to create the most beautiful dance. And that's why I love SCD ❤❤❤
ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE 👏👏👏 Rarely does a dance leave me utterly speechless but wow. I knew the Charleston would massively play to his strengths but even I wasn't expecting it to be THIS good. It will go down as one of the best dances in Strictly history that's for sure.
@@aideencooney1685but he just danced a Charleston this week.. would he do it again next week, even if it's the final? It'd not be too interesting to watch it again so soon.
@@aideencooney1685 Much like how you seem unfamiliar of the art of dance. I highly doubt you know much more than Craig. Of course your opinion is valid, but that was absolutely a charleston and an amazing one too.
Layton and Nikita are Absolutely Amazing Dancers, Best dancers, best partnership ever on Strictly come Dancing, they do moves and routines week after week, that no one else dear to try, and as this is a dancing competition, and quite simply they are by far the best dancers on the show, so therefore they deserved to win, AMAZZZZZZZZZZING*
The best Strictly Dance Ever! OUTSTANDING! How you stay so Synchronized without looking at each other very tricky and Incredible! The best Footwork I have ever seen on strictly ever! MINDBLOWING! AMAZING! I watched this over 1000 times I think now! Great dance! Perfect! Lovely! ❤❤❤❤
When you get mister STONE FACE CRAIG who’s been judging since DAY 1 of this show to stand up and applaud, we are talking about Craig the man who loves to play the villain, won’t give 10s when it’s frankly rightfully deserved (a few dances this season spring to mind, not even talking about just Layton and Nikita’s), you just know you have done something truly remarkable and history making. THEY GOT CRAIG TO STAND UP. That is a feat in of itself. 🎉
I mean Craig gave a standing ovation and said that’s the best Charleston he’s ever seen in 20 years. If that isn’t enough to put them into the finals I don’t know what is. 40 across the board. Absolutely amazing 🎉❤
Layton and Nikita just keep churning out these groundbreaking routines! Absolute perfection, not to mention their stamina! Their Paso, this Charleston, their Argentine tango and Cha Cha have made strictly history for me! A partnership made in heaven 💕💕💕🔥🔥🔥
I am blown away by this man's tenacity to keep going out there week after week and putting on performances like this. I've seen huge hate for this extremely talented young man and that says more about people's character and spite than anything else. This was one of the best performances I have ever seen on this show, I voted 10 times for these two tonight, DESERVED FINALISTS!
100% agree, I don’t know anybody with the perseverance he has. I would give up straight away if I was getting the crap he gets. Definitely deserving winners.
@@forceitin26Hate comes when there have been so many other dancers before, and people with similar CVs and longer experience who have taken part and won without trolling. This year 4 people had stage school training and theater dance experience. Nigel is more experienced even won awards, Amanda has even performed with Layton before when he was young, Angela Scanlon toured internationally with Irish dancing company for more than 12 years. None of these people was trolled.
@@forceitin26 well I have seen so many hateful comments and many even homophobic, I have even sent screenshots to bbc. By the way Layton started performing at 12 not 6 and he is only 29, so I don’t know why people make him out like he has been in theater for ages. As I said Nigel had been there longer than him but he never got trolled like Layton, so did Amanda and Angela S. Layton had all the right to be in this competition, the producers have said that the only deterrent is former ballroom and Latin professional dancers. Which Layton is not. So if Debbie McGee who owned and run a ballet company and had a very long theater experience could take part and win , so should Layton be allowed to take part and have also the chance to win it
This was a dance performance of a very exceptional level. I love how Layton and Nikita dance so fantastically and beautifully together. They blow me away every time. I watch Strictly every Saturday and Sunday. Greetings from Belgium from a former Belgian dance champion.
UNREAL. OUT OF THIS WORLD 👏👏👏 the fact Craig stood up & clapped for what seemed like absolutely ages just shows that something VERY VERY SPECIAL had just happened which it did. A truly marvellous Charleston can't tell u how much I loved itttttttttttttttttt ❤❤❤ The joy & happiness these lads bring is just EVERYTHING too 🤩🤩🤩
Sheer perfection! Can't get any better than this! Even though another dancer is the front runner, Layton has out-danced EVERYONE by a mile!!! The tears were flowing. Thanks Strictly for showing this incredible dancer and partnership!
Well he is a vastly experienced professional. Thats one of the reasons the public dislike his presence in the competition. That and his big head and fake humility
@oiooi6460 NO matter how many times you and others perpetuate that lie, it is STILL a lie. Jealous much? Nigel and Ellie have dance experience as well. Did Karim suffer this much backlash, hate and vitriol? Here in the US on DWTS, gymnasts, singers, and others have had dance "experience " as well but they weren't subjected to hate. Besides, as Shirley said, Ballroom and Latin is not the same. You guys need to get over yourselves. Life is too short. Stay blessed!
They were amazing and I love their Charleston so much! They are my favourite ever partnership on Strictly. I still can't get enough of re-watching all their dances.❤❤
As Craig would say - Fab-u-lous!!! I loved this routine and I can't stop watching Layton and Nikita. What a wonderful pairing they make; and fully deserve to be in the final. 🥰😍🤩
That was the best thing I’ve seen on strickly. I say it a lot after watching these two but that was incredible! Layton is a star. He works so hard and tries to make everyone proud and he’s taken hit after hit . Hate after hate and just kept going. You can tell how he as a person has affected Nikita. I would rather root for a growing loving true friendship than a made up romantic one. Good luck Layton
By a mile the best dance of the night and the entire series! They’ve shown that hard work absolutely pays off. Nikitas speech was so heartfelt, Layton keeps pushing despite all the setbacks. These two are the winners regardless.
Well that was just A-MA-ZING! The lifts, the techniques, everything! Also both of them getting emotional after getting 40 made me almost cry 😭 MY WINNERS❤
This, their Rhumba and Argentine tango are my favourite routines. Both beautiful dancers, and Nikita always shows such incredible generosity towards his partners by always playing to their strengths in his choreography and execution. I really particularly enjoyed Laytons routines when he is simply in the dance. Its been particularly nice through the journey to get past the initial hyper energy personal presentation and actually get to see the nice young person behind the showbizzy personality front.
i've rewatched this dance SO many times already, it's insane!! one of the best dances in strictly history i'd think (along with his AT, paso, and even his quickstep when that makes a reappearance next week like i expect)
@@ericamacs3875 yes, i think one will be the judge's pick and the other the couple's favourite. I think we'll definitely be seeing both the AT and quickstep next week.
That was absolutely one of the best routines in that I have ever seen on Strictly ever. This really felt like a whole produced number fit for a Tony Awards performance. And Craig giving Layton a standing ovation is just the validation that Layton needed to see that he is a incredible performer. I'm just happy for this partnership and what they have achieved together. Deserved to be final and then will indeed make the final. Even if they gotta devoured that dance off. 10 ❤❤❤❤❤ !!!!!!!
That was stratospherically good. O'Connor & Kelly would have cheered them to the highest heights for this routine which paid homage but never copied (I know they have outside choreographers for the Charleston, so well done them for crafting such a wonderful number which these two executed with ultimate skill).
Out of this world! There hasn't been a dancer so talented and humble like Layton in all the series, and probably there will never be another one in the future either! Tonight two great dances, simply outstanding! Layton and Nikita are a dream partnership! My votes goes to them every week! I so want them to win! ❤❤
I don’t watch strictly anymore since I now have to work Saturday night shifts. I get my fix from you tube and I have to say that these guys are awesome. I never thought anyone would top Danny Mac but Layton has proved me wrong.
EXTRAORDINARY!!! As soon as I heard the word "Charleston" I knew this would be 200% energy, it was *INSANELY* INCREDIBLE!!! 🌟 I was also wondering when Craig would have his turn to stand and clap after a dance, so happy it happened!! 😂
Was there anyone out there that had a single doubt that this Charleston, when it happened, wasn't going to get a 40? I have been waiting all the weeks to see this and I knew it would be amazing. Yet my very high expectations were surpassed once again. GO LAYTON!!!!!
Wow. Craig stands up and applauds them, Shirley talks about dancing royalty. Their rumba was good, but this was another level even by their own standards.
That was incredible, absolutely fantastic! Well done to both of you! The choreography was insane, at that speed too! I can’t wait to see more from this team! 🎉
If anyone had ANY idea how much strength and stamina this routine took, they would even more bowled over than they already are! FANTASTIC job, guys!!!!!
They are the best partnership in Strictly history. I've been watching 20 years and this is more than just training/experience on Layton's part: This is pure, unadulterated, talent and a pro Latin/Ballroom dancer who's figured out how to harness it. These two together are incredible. An absolute joy and privilege to watch them.
WHAT A DANCE !!! LIKE THIS IS INCREDIBLE LIKE IM STILL SPEECHLESS OMFGG. the flips and everything like honestly WOW !!! THEY ARE REALLY REALLY EXCEPTIONAL and the way they always bring out the best of each other, really really a beautiful partnership. AMAZING ❤
Absolutely loved this routine. Looks like Layton and Nikita are really enjoying themselves. No matter whether they win the finals or not, they will always be the best couple in the whole of Strictly. Stunning performances week after week
Layton isn’t privileged. His mum and family put him to stage school when he was young to give him a better future as they come from working class family. He worked hard to reached this level of dance, so why keep complaining about his past experience. Just complain to the Producers at Strictly rather than hating on the people.
Score - *10/10 BUT THERE ISN'T EVEN A NUMBER TO DESCRIBE THAT PERFORMANCE* WOW WOW WOW WOWOWOWOWOWOW! That really chocked me up, I never thought Rose and Giovanni's AT could be topped but I was proved wrong tonight. That is the best dance ever seen on strictly or any other international DWTS by far. Everything about that was PERFECT, the props, the lifts, the swivels, the energy, the intricacy, the feeling, the choreography, the hard work and fight back, the song couldn't have been better it's one of my favourite songs for a Charleston. The partnership was extraordinary honestly after all going on in Layton's personal life and the disgusting abuse he recieves online I'm just so thankful he can come onto that dancefloor every single week and brighten our lives up with something like that. Some of the best moves I've ever seen, that flip and those cartwheels and all the ladderography looked so easy yet that's some of the hardest Choreography ever seen on strictly. I love these two, this made me feel dance and I know that itll be the one dance I'll know frame by frame by the end of the series. I will throw my coffee at the TV if these two are in the bottom two. Love Layton, Love Nikita, NOW LET'S GO FOR THE GLITTERBALL 😍😍😍 Nikita's speech aswell *ugh* *cries* 💖💖💖
@@rebelhenz I don't know what is going on, however Layton mentioned things were though for him on the results show and Nikita said in his speech on why Layton should be in the final that alot has been happening in his personal life but he won't go into detail about it
Come on guys!! Let’s make it happen! These guys need to win!! This dance was out of this world!! Every week they keep creating strictly history! Go Lakita!! ❤❤
They definitely deserve this score, personally I thought this dance was their best because it was a partnership and wow all those extra stage propes. 👏
I mean what is this? This kind of a performance makes you come back to rewatch it 20 times. It is just mind blowing someone can nail this in only 5 days of rehearsals and to this level. For all of you saying that Layton is a pro dancer, there are thousands of them that would not be able to do anything outside of their genre. This man was born sprinkled with a little extra talent. Amazing
I mean any musical theatre professional dancer would be able to do this sort of thing after their training- it doesn't mean it isn't incredible but it does mean I am more impressed by others because I don't expect it from them
He tries too hard.....and that can be very off putting.
@@kitnal4143 go ask les dennis to dance like this and only then, you’ve proved your point. Almost everyone in strictly who has been great, all have some dancing background including Ellie. Lets stop being hypocrites here 🤣
@@Sg_duaEllie doesn’t have dance experience - Layton is literally a professional dancer. It’s nowhere near the same
@Sg_dua again, dance background ≠ professional dancer. Layton is amazing but he is a professional dancer who dances for a living and has done so (and trained for it) since a very young age. What does Les have to do with anything? Was he secretly pro this entire time?
nikita telling him “you make me shine with how much you are shining” is maybe one of the loveliest compliments ever. they have such a special connection and i’m so glad we got to see them dance together this year and produce such amazing routines! yet another history making dance that was simply perfect!
Damn Nikita made my eyes leak with that comment! I adore them both. They are way too fabulous ❤
I was already emotional feeling so proud of them during the final but Nikita's words brought tears to my eyes. There'll never be another partnership like them. I'm so glad we got to see them dance and have fun together. Their friendship is so beautiful.❤
Nikita has been able to absolutely thrive and live his best life as a performer with Layton as his partner. We talk about Johaness and Annabelle but these two have such a beautiful connection. And I truly love and appreciate how Nikita has loved and embraced Layton throughout this entire series with NO hesitation. It’s heartwarming to witness.
I love how you've noticed this too. Nikita has melted me with his genuine affection and selflessness with Layton. He's not afraid to let Layton shine🤗
Yes exactly this :)! In this partnership he can go all out with his energy, clothing and being a showman hehe. Ánd with being open, soft, emotional and affectionate. ❤️
@@kerijordan5771brilliant pair
@@kerijordan5771 yes, and has always encouraged him to be himself, whether feminine or masculine. ❤️❤️❤️
@@LovedByYou Is that good in dancing?
What strange ideas you have!
This routine took the Charleston to another level. The amount of work Layton and Nikita must have put in to achieve that level of perfection must have been phenomenal. No matter what type of dance he did before Strictly it wasn’t ballroom or Latin - what he has achieved has been done through sheer hard work and he deserves to be in the final - no question.
Incredible!!! Nikita has blossomed this series!!! When Craig stood up I almost died!
Yep blossomed from professional dancer to erm... professional dancer 🙄
@@marcusskyfall Nikita is a professional yep, but I think he has really come out of his shell and showed his choreography skills
Really, has he come out ?.......I'm shocked. 😄
On family time viewing too !
@@marcusskyfallI am sure there are many professional dancers who would not pull off such performances. He is not a ballroom or latin dancer. Let’s applaud talent when we see it
@@marcusskyfall She’s talking about Nikita, the pro.. Layton is the celeb
And this is why I’ll never complain about contestants having dance experience. You get routines like THAT.
But that is not the point of the show. Its a show about the journey of the non dancer. Not two pro dancers together.
@ronaldsmith2013 oh bore off! The show has always had dancers with professional experience participating, it would be unwatchable if it didn't, if you can't see the joy of watching Layton & Nikita dance then it's your loss.
The most exciting dancers this year.
@@ronaldsmith2013 And we've seen how boring that is. I'll take the Laytons and Danny Macs of this world thank you....pure entertainment and passion. They never let them win anyways.
Gene Kelly and Donald O'Connor would've been proud - what a spectacular dance! 👏 ❤
The fact that Craig stood up shows you how OUTSTANDING this was! I’m not a fan of the Charleston but this was AMAZING!!!!
Yes I agree but they are two dancers.
if it was such a crime strictly wouldn't have asked him to join the show!!@@ronaldsmith2013
The Charleston is my favorite dance that they do on Strictly and I am very particular about them. This was absolutely everything I could ever want from a Charleston and more. Checks every one of my boxes. Well worth waiting for the semi-finals to have our boys knock this one out of the park. I didn't think I'd see a Charleston I liked more than Aj and Kai's ever on Strictly but this beats it by a respectable margin. Absolutely well done Layton and Nikita. Love and support from Massachusetts in the USA.
Layton's ability to bring out a side of Nikita I've always observed leaves me speechless; it's truly beautiful. Nikita won't find anyone better than Layton, as they consistently bring out the best in each other. Their partnership is a thing of beauty. Shine as the stars you are, beyond the confines of Strictly. My boys smashed both Rumba and Charleston getting the perfect score again. What a Charleston, Craig standing ovation, well deserved. I knew they would slay it, my boys are making history. I’m still catching my breath. 🥵💯👍🏾
They are just so crazy, anyone Nikita gets after Layton will be a downgrade. He could literally transform every idea Nikita had into the reality, Nikita didn't have to hold back at all. Again, all these people say Layton is a pro dancer...come on. Nikita is a ballroom/Latin dancer and I bet he couldn't do the Irish jig or breakdance like a pro. It takes a skill to do all of that, and Layton (like him or not) has this amazing talent and ability to learn anything. If they don't win I am done with Strictly. Sorry but no other couple can top them
I wholeheartedly share the sentiment, particularly as a woman deeply committed to LGBTQIAP+ advocacy. His remarkable resilience and unwavering support for others, coupled with his unparalleled dedication to training, set him apart. If they don't emerge victorious, I'd find it difficult to continue with the show. @Ana-cv6kn
Are you telling me you were really surprised with graigs standing ovation and layton getting all 40s ? You need to wake up It was all planned Nigel leaves i dont think he was really injured scores get transferred to the semis and layton gets another 40 to make sure he gets to the top of the leader board almost like the show was all planned and the winner already picked ...
@@stevebbuk9557 rubbish!!!. If Layton was a professional dancer he wouldn't be allowed on the show ya muppet lol!!!.
@@heatherlingard9444 are you for real!!!. Layton DESERVED his scores as he's the best dancer on there!!!. Stop eating those SOUR GRAPES 😅😅😅!!!.
Re-watching this extraordinary dancing couple! Even if Strictly 2024 has started a few weeks ago, I still have to come back and rewatch Layton and Nikita dancing, they are extraordinary together, and they are the REAL winners!! Listen to the audience, they all agree with me!!
I'm starting to think that Layton has magic feet. I've seen him defy gravity many times in this series of Strictly, but I could hardly believe what I was seeing last night. To backflip from lying down to standing up, to do that sideways cartwheel together with Nikita in that crazy X shape, for them both to fearlessly leap up onto those flimsy-looking chairs... this is the most gymnastic, fantastic Charleston ever. Even when they span those umbrellas they were in perfect synch. This was of a Hollywood musical standard. Gene Kelly would have been proud. The BBC will likely play clips from this awesome routine in trailers for Strictly in years to come.
Wow so bonkers. It's just incredible. Amazing choreography.
I can't get over those lifts, that first one, for Nikita to hold him up so high there, and to look so effortless when it really can't be easy.
Those cartwheel lifts, I've never seen any as good as that before, so much strength and synchronicity.
A match made in heaven ....Nikita reaching his teaching ability and Layton learning from him what he can achieve ...both reaching the best ever ...perfection at its best ... X
And still they’re going, after the flip…and still they’re going after the cartwheels…and still they’re going…I was exhausted just watching, and my mouth was literally hanging open at this routine. The energy was off the charts. And the height that Layton achieves when he jumps or is lifted is phenomenal. A 40 well deserved.
I don't think I've ever seen a better dance on Strictly. Simply incredible.
I thought it couldn't get better then their Paso Doble but this dance gives it a run for it's money!! I'm gagging it's so amazing!!!!! love them so much 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
Watching Layton and Nikita dance I can’t help but think we’re witnessing some of the greatest dancing of our time
I've seen Singin in the Rain more than 30 times in my life, and this by Layton & Nikita, was pure Kelly & O'Connor. I love this partnership so much; I think they make each other shine. What a joy they are to watch.
These two are the best of the best, they are brilliant together and I take my hat off to Nikita for teaching Layton to reach this high standard.
I actually think Nikita and Layton taught each other and brought the best out of each other. It is a fabulous partnership of two handsome and insanely talented individuals.
Your so right in what you say.@@zxaddictxz
The dance schools he attended taught Layton.
Layton was not a pro dancer I found this on the here...Ellie did ballet, modern street dance. Layton did jazz, tap, and ballet “to a certain degree” When Layton has ever been in shows he's had to train for the parts whatever he had to do in the shows as he went along.t@@ronaldsmith2013
This dance made me silent. It was perfect! Love love love it. Layton & Nikita do their best to create the most beautiful dance. And that's why I love SCD ❤❤❤
ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE 👏👏👏 Rarely does a dance leave me utterly speechless but wow. I knew the Charleston would massively play to his strengths but even I wasn't expecting it to be THIS good. It will go down as one of the best dances in Strictly history that's for sure.
Would have been great if he’d actually danced a Charleston.!!!
@@aideencooney1685but he just danced a Charleston this week.. would he do it again next week, even if it's the final? It'd not be too interesting to watch it again so soon.
@@hoxtondean9855 not familiar with the art of sarcasm obviously!!!
Absolutely!
WoooooooooW~That was excellence
@@aideencooney1685 Much like how you seem unfamiliar of the art of dance. I highly doubt you know much more than Craig. Of course your opinion is valid, but that was absolutely a charleston and an amazing one too.
Layton and Nikita are Absolutely Amazing Dancers,
Best dancers, best partnership ever on Strictly come Dancing,
they do moves and routines week after week,
that no one else dear to try,
and as this is a dancing competition,
and quite simply they are by far the best dancers on the show,
so therefore they deserved to win, AMAZZZZZZZZZZING*
The best Strictly Dance Ever! OUTSTANDING! How you stay so Synchronized without looking at each other very tricky and Incredible! The best Footwork I have ever seen on strictly ever! MINDBLOWING! AMAZING! I watched this over 1000 times I think now! Great dance! Perfect! Lovely! ❤❤❤❤
When you get mister STONE FACE CRAIG who’s been judging since DAY 1 of this show to stand up and applaud, we are talking about Craig the man who loves to play the villain, won’t give 10s when it’s frankly rightfully deserved (a few dances this season spring to mind, not even talking about just Layton and Nikita’s), you just know you have done something truly remarkable and history making.
THEY GOT CRAIG TO STAND UP. That is a feat in of itself. 🎉
He walked off the podium and bowed down to Debbie McGee
I mean Craig gave a standing ovation and said that’s the best Charleston he’s ever seen in 20 years. If that isn’t enough to put them into the finals I don’t know what is.
40 across the board. Absolutely amazing 🎉❤
WOW WOW WOW! Together Nikita & Layton are dance magic, TV gold. Love these two!!! Go on boys, right into the final! X
Layton and Nikita just keep churning out these groundbreaking routines! Absolute perfection, not to mention their stamina! Their Paso, this Charleston, their Argentine tango and Cha Cha have made strictly history for me! A partnership made in heaven 💕💕💕🔥🔥🔥
And that Quickstep
@@jonahwilliams4966Yes! And their Jive!
Totally agree - so many innovative takes that we've never seen before on traditional dances. I absolutely adore them ❤
Yep they keep churning my stomach too ! 🤢
Nothing ground breaking about it, they're both professional, Layton shouldn't be on the show
well done boys incredible
Oh gosh Dianne! ❤ You and Bobby are doing so well as well! ❤❤❤
Omg hi Dianne! you’re my favourite female professional💓
I am blown away by this man's tenacity to keep going out there week after week and putting on performances like this. I've seen huge hate for this extremely talented young man and that says more about people's character and spite than anything else. This was one of the best performances I have ever seen on this show, I voted 10 times for these two tonight, DESERVED FINALISTS!
100% agree, I don’t know anybody with the perseverance he has. I would give up straight away if I was getting the crap he gets. Definitely deserving winners.
@@forceitin26 The comments people make about him are tactless and nasty. That's the point I am making.
@@forceitin26Hate comes when there have been so many other dancers before, and people with similar CVs and longer experience who have taken part and won without trolling. This year 4 people had stage school training and theater dance experience. Nigel is more experienced even won awards, Amanda has even performed with Layton before when he was young, Angela Scanlon toured internationally with Irish dancing company for more than 12 years. None of these people was trolled.
@@forceitin26 well I have seen so many hateful comments and many even homophobic, I have even sent screenshots to bbc. By the way Layton started performing at 12 not 6 and he is only 29, so I don’t know why people make him out like he has been in theater for ages. As I said Nigel had been there longer than him but he never got trolled like Layton, so did Amanda and Angela S. Layton had all the right to be in this competition, the producers have said that the only deterrent is former ballroom and Latin professional dancers. Which Layton is not. So if Debbie McGee who owned and run a ballet company and had a very long theater experience could take part and win , so should Layton be allowed to take part and have also the chance to win it
This gives me Gene Kelly and Donald O’Conner singing in the rain vibes. It’s so impressive!
Can't help but watch these two again and again, although this season is done. Wow, wow, wow!!!
This was a dance performance of a very exceptional level. I love how Layton and Nikita dance so fantastically and beautifully together. They blow me away every time. I watch Strictly every Saturday and Sunday. Greetings from Belgium from a former Belgian dance champion.
UNREAL. OUT OF THIS WORLD 👏👏👏 the fact Craig stood up & clapped for what seemed like absolutely ages just shows that something VERY VERY SPECIAL had just happened which it did. A truly marvellous Charleston can't tell u how much I loved itttttttttttttttttt ❤❤❤
The joy & happiness these lads bring is just EVERYTHING too 🤩🤩🤩
Well said! ♥
Doubt that 😂😂😂😂
Loved it. A huge gift of happiness in an uncertain world.
Sheer perfection!
Can't get any better than this!
Even though another dancer is the front runner, Layton has out-danced EVERYONE by a mile!!!
The tears were flowing.
Thanks Strictly for showing this incredible dancer and partnership!
It's so brilliantly good that I've sent this to my wonderful girlfriend in Manila, Philippines to see for herself 😊
@@alandawson438 now that's cute 🥰
Well he is a vastly experienced professional. Thats one of the reasons the public dislike his presence in the competition. That and his big head and fake humility
@oiooi6460 speak for yourself.
@oiooi6460
NO matter how many times you and others perpetuate that lie, it is STILL a lie.
Jealous much?
Nigel and Ellie have dance experience as well.
Did Karim suffer this much backlash, hate and vitriol?
Here in the US on DWTS, gymnasts, singers, and others have had dance "experience " as well but they weren't subjected to hate.
Besides, as Shirley said, Ballroom and Latin is not the same.
You guys need to get over yourselves. Life is too short.
Stay blessed!
They were amazing and I love their Charleston so much! They are my favourite ever partnership on Strictly. I still can't get enough of re-watching all their dances.❤❤
Now THAT is REAL Dancing and Music!!!!!
As Craig would say - Fab-u-lous!!! I loved this routine and I can't stop watching Layton and Nikita. What a wonderful pairing they make; and fully deserve to be in the final. 🥰😍🤩
SIMPLY BRILLIANT!!! UK PLEASE!!! VOTE FOR THEM!! They absolutely deserve to win!!!
That was the best thing I’ve seen on strickly. I say it a lot after watching these two but that was incredible! Layton is a star. He works so hard and tries to make everyone proud and he’s taken hit after hit . Hate after hate and just kept going. You can tell how he as a person has affected Nikita. I would rather root for a growing loving true friendship than a made up romantic one. Good luck Layton
Just amazing.....these two are just sensational together. Best partnership ever on strictly.
BEST CHARLESTON I'VE EVER SEEN ON STRICTLY!! UNBELIEVABLE!! MY WINNERS!! 😍👏
By a mile the best dance of the night and the entire series! They’ve shown that hard work absolutely pays off. Nikitas speech was so heartfelt, Layton keeps pushing despite all the setbacks. These two are the winners regardless.
Well that was just A-MA-ZING! The lifts, the techniques, everything! Also both of them getting emotional after getting 40 made me almost cry 😭 MY WINNERS❤
I'm obsessed, Layton, Nikita, Dave Arch, his band and the singers. It was all perfect!
To perform this Charleston in any week is incredible but to do it so perfectly in a 2 dance week is truly outstanding!
This, their Rhumba and Argentine tango are my favourite routines. Both beautiful dancers, and Nikita always shows such incredible generosity towards his partners by always playing to their strengths in his choreography and execution.
I really particularly enjoyed Laytons routines when he is simply in the dance. Its been particularly nice through the journey to get past the initial hyper energy personal presentation and actually get to see the nice young person behind the showbizzy personality front.
This was just an ABSOLUTE JOY to watch!!! One of the best Strictly routines I've seen 😊 they bring out the absolute best in each other
i've rewatched this dance SO many times already, it's insane!! one of the best dances in strictly history i'd think (along with his AT, paso, and even his quickstep when that makes a reappearance next week like i expect)
I reckon they'll redo the AT. Craig said he'd like to see it again..
@@ericamacs3875 yes, i think one will be the judge's pick and the other the couple's favourite. I think we'll definitely be seeing both the AT and quickstep next week.
This reminds me so much of the talents of Gene Kelly & Donald O’Connor in Singing in the Rain - it really was that good!
That was absolutely one of the best routines in that I have ever seen on Strictly ever. This really felt like a whole produced number fit for a Tony Awards performance. And Craig giving Layton a standing ovation is just the validation that Layton needed to see that he is a incredible performer. I'm just happy for this partnership and what they have achieved together. Deserved to be final and then will indeed make the final. Even if they gotta devoured that dance off.
10 ❤❤❤❤❤ !!!!!!!
I still love this dance even a year later. It’s the best
That was stratospherically good. O'Connor & Kelly would have cheered them to the highest heights for this routine which paid homage but never copied (I know they have outside choreographers for the Charleston, so well done them for crafting such a wonderful number which these two executed with ultimate skill).
THE TALENT! THE STYLE! THE CHOREOGRAPHY! EVERYTHING!! I’VE NEVER SEEN A BETTER CHARLESTON ON STRICTLY EVER!!
I'll be rewatching these two stars for the rest of my ife.
You and me both I’ll be buying tickets to everyone of their shows. Absolutely super stars 🌟.
Same xx
And weeks after they still SHINE and make me smile
Out of this world! There hasn't been a dancer so talented and humble like Layton in all the series, and probably there will never be another one in the future either! Tonight two great dances, simply outstanding! Layton and Nikita are a dream partnership! My votes goes to them every week! I so want them to win! ❤❤
I Agree 💯
I studied fit as a fiddle as part of a level dance and they absolutely nailed the tone and feel of this number in like with the orignal. So brilliant!
Their chemistry is just ..... out of this world ❤
What a brilliant nod to Gene Kelly and Donald O'Connor in 'Singing in the Rain', I so hope they win 🤞I loved it
I don’t watch strictly anymore since I now have to work Saturday night shifts. I get my fix from you tube and I have to say that these guys are awesome. I never thought anyone would top Danny Mac but Layton has proved me wrong.
One of the best couples we’ve ever had on Strictly, I really want them to win!
EXTRAORDINARY!!! As soon as I heard the word "Charleston" I knew this would be 200% energy, it was *INSANELY* INCREDIBLE!!! 🌟 I was also wondering when Craig would have his turn to stand and clap after a dance, so happy it happened!! 😂
Thank you for your love to dance, Layton. Wish you all the best! 🥰🙏
Layton, Nikita, sending my love to you, thanking for the joy and wishing you victory. We need to vote for you❤️❤️
Was there anyone out there that had a single doubt that this Charleston, when it happened, wasn't going to get a 40? I have been waiting all the weeks to see this and I knew it would be amazing. Yet my very high expectations were surpassed once again. GO LAYTON!!!!!
Well that was bloody brilliant. Bravo Layton and Nikita!!!
this was absolutely brilliant and fully deserve a spot in the final. my winners of strictly 2023!
Wow. Craig stands up and applauds them, Shirley talks about dancing royalty. Their rumba was good, but this was another level even by their own standards.
That was incredible, absolutely fantastic! Well done to both of you! The choreography was insane, at that speed too! I can’t wait to see more from this team! 🎉
AMAZING!!!! Layton & Nikita; thank you for such a great show!!!
If anyone had ANY idea how much strength and stamina this routine took, they would even more bowled over than they already are! FANTASTIC job, guys!!!!!
Week after week Lakita comes to SLAY. How cute were those costumes. Grinning from ear to ear. Big love 💗 to my favorite Strictly dancers ever.
Direct homage to Gene and Donald. Loved it❤
I didn't like the idea of matching costumes at first, but I was so wrong. They looked ADORABLE.
@@LauraGomez-bl2soI think they always look adorable when they are matching
These two have won my heart. ♥
👏 Same ❤
This is absolutely insane! And it's likely going down as one of the great dances in strictly history.
very good! for 2 professional male dancers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Craig said the best in 20 years of Strictly.
@@ashleybrown1540 agree 💯
bbc are desperate for a same sex couple to reach the final to normalise it!!!
maybe next year it will be all same sex couples!!!@@ashleybrown1540
@@ashleybrown1540And he Literally teaches dancing😂
This is right up Layton's alley! So good. Perfection. 10/10
I loved watching the dance performance between layton and his dance partner Nikita it was an excellent performance on tonight's show
Really think these two deserved to win, loved them and watch this routine over and over again 💙
If they don’t win it all.. I mean ❤ they are one of the best partners in strictly history!
They are the best partnership in Strictly history. I've been watching 20 years and this is more than just training/experience on Layton's part: This is pure, unadulterated, talent and a pro Latin/Ballroom dancer who's figured out how to harness it. These two together are incredible. An absolute joy and privilege to watch them.
Haha you're so funny ....and deluded
@@ColaDiva Layton is already a dancer and in a show.the rest had to start from scratch if they win it the BBC's only premier show will fall .
@@ColaDivaI take it you know that he's a trained dancer?
Yes, for Leyton and Nikita, no matter what❤❤❤
My HOLY GOODNESS GRACIOUS, Layton is in there for Nikita all the way to Final, they deserve to win Strictly 2023
Just Amazing... They should be in the Final... Please vote!!!!
WHAT A DANCE !!! LIKE THIS IS INCREDIBLE LIKE IM STILL SPEECHLESS OMFGG. the flips and everything like honestly WOW !!! THEY ARE REALLY REALLY EXCEPTIONAL and the way they always bring out the best of each other, really really a beautiful partnership. AMAZING ❤
*EXCEPTIONAL
Absolutely loved this routine. Looks like Layton and Nikita are really enjoying themselves. No matter whether they win the finals or not, they will always be the best couple in the whole of Strictly. Stunning performances week after week
Well what do you expect from 2 professional dancers against former novices
Layton isn’t privileged. His mum and family put him to stage school when he was young to give him a better future as they come from working class family. He worked hard to reached this level of dance, so why keep complaining about his past experience. Just complain to the Producers at Strictly rather than hating on the people.
Score - *10/10 BUT THERE ISN'T EVEN A NUMBER TO DESCRIBE THAT PERFORMANCE*
WOW WOW WOW WOWOWOWOWOWOW! That really chocked me up, I never thought Rose and Giovanni's AT could be topped but I was proved wrong tonight. That is the best dance ever seen on strictly or any other international DWTS by far. Everything about that was PERFECT, the props, the lifts, the swivels, the energy, the intricacy, the feeling, the choreography, the hard work and fight back, the song couldn't have been better it's one of my favourite songs for a Charleston. The partnership was extraordinary honestly after all going on in Layton's personal life and the disgusting abuse he recieves online I'm just so thankful he can come onto that dancefloor every single week and brighten our lives up with something like that. Some of the best moves I've ever seen, that flip and those cartwheels and all the ladderography looked so easy yet that's some of the hardest Choreography ever seen on strictly. I love these two, this made me feel dance and I know that itll be the one dance I'll know frame by frame by the end of the series. I will throw my coffee at the TV if these two are in the bottom two. Love Layton, Love Nikita, NOW LET'S GO FOR THE GLITTERBALL 😍😍😍 Nikita's speech aswell *ugh* *cries* 💖💖💖
I think your comment deserves a 10/10
What did I miss what’s going on in his personal life please fill me in ?
@@ericamacs3875 Thank you so much ❤❤❤
@@rebelhenz I don't know what is going on, however Layton mentioned things were though for him on the results show and Nikita said in his speech on why Layton should be in the final that alot has been happening in his personal life but he won't go into detail about it
@@rebelhenz Tough* not though
Come on guys!! Let’s make it happen! These guys need to win!! This dance was out of this world!! Every week they keep creating strictly history! Go Lakita!! ❤❤
What the actual...Best strictly dance i have seen in a long time. Just wow
SO MUCH FUN!!!!!!! they are my absolute favourites!!!!
What a showman. Gene and Donald are up in heaven giving that dance a standing O
My problem with Layton and Nikita is I am so mesmerised with their dancing I forget to breathe. They have taken Strictly to another level.❤️
Unbelievable. They smashed it !!
Best strictly couple I've ever seen😍 wish them all the best in the final🎉
That's 2 dancers together. Layton couldn't dance like that with a woman.
AMAZING! The dance champion of 2023 ❤
This was an epic moment. Deep respect for both.😊😊😊😊
We were very lucky to get these dances 💙
They did Gene Kelly and Donald O' Connor proud. Absolutely no doubt about it ❤
They weren't as good as them though
They definitely deserve this score, personally I thought this dance was their best because it was a partnership and wow all those extra stage propes. 👏
The quicksteep too
they have both made strictly history and i am in awe almost every single time they dance... my winners 💗 #teamlakita
YES they have made history, Two pro dancers together in a show for non dancers.
Just epic and so joyful. So wonderful for Nikita to show off his talent with Layton. How can you not love and respect both of them and their journey ❤
I could watch them all day.