Maisie Smith stages Strictly comeback with her highest score of series – one week after dance-off

Daning a salsa with professional partner Gorka Marquez for Blackpool week, the former EastEnders star achieved her highest score of the series so far, with all three judges giving her nine points – meaning a total score of 27.

Anton du Beke described her performance as "absolutely brilliant" and said that she more than made up for her "stiff" performance last week.

"This week you were so fluid, you were nice and loose,” he said, before encouraging her to continue on this trajectory: “you’ve got so much more to give – keep going!"

Shirley Ballas was similarly enthusiastic with her praise and said it was the ideal way to hit back from the disappointment of last week.

"What a way to come back from that dreaded dance-off," she said. "You’re an accomplished dancer. Keep working on your feet… it’s getting better by the week."

Craig Revel Horwood did find some fault with the performance, pointing out a bad landing – but he placed the blame for this on Gorka, with the professional admitting that it was his fault. Craig also praised Maisie's “fantastic” hips and “incredible” spins.

For her part, Maisie was clearly delighted with the comments and how she was able to bounce back from last week.

"I just went out there and had the best time and that's what I’m here to do," she said.

Strictly Come Dancing airs on BBC One on Saturday evenings. Check out what else is on with our TV Guide, or take a look at our new TV shows 2020 page to find out what’s airing this autumn and beyond.