STRICTLY’S Shirley Ballas broke down in tears over Annabel Croft’s emotional routine tonight – and viewers were sobbing too.
The tennis star took to the Tower Ballroom dance floor with her pro partner Johannes Radebe with an American Smooth.
The couple performed to Unchained Melody with Annabel wearing a stunning blue dress with a sparkling neckline.
When the routine was over, Annabel and Johannes were quite emotional, as was Head Judge Shirley when Tess Daly came to her for her feedback.
Shirley, 63, pointed out she was clutching a tissue as the routine had left her so emotional.
She said: “Well, I have to have another tissue now because this was just so extraordinarily beautiful.
“You’re so calm, you’re so kind. We’ve watched you from the beginning when you were very, very nervous.
“To watch you here at Blackpool, your plie with your beautiful breath, your sense of time, your energy and your love for each other was just absolutely spellbinding, well done.”
Strictly viewers were just as emotional, with one writing: “So emotional watching Johannes and Annabel. That was stunning and the pride on his face brings me to tears!”
Another added: “Annabel’s dance was the first this season to make me cry. Either way. Beautiful.”
A third tweeted: “@jojo_radebe @Annabel_Croft you made me cry again. So lovely.”
Meanwhile a fourth shared: “I’m a heartless old git but Annabel brings tears to my eyes. I hope they win. #strictly.”
The judges loved their routine and scored them a total of 35 points.
Strictly Come Dancing is available on BBC iPlayer.
