In the latest episode of the popular dance competition Strictly Come Dancing, Karen Carney and Carlos Gu delivered a stunning performance during the Halloween special. The show aired on BBC One on November 1, featuring ten couples remaining in the competition.
Karen Carney and Carlos Gu Shine in Argentine Tango
The evening commenced with an entertaining skit featuring hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, who humorously depicted a zombie scenario. However, the highlight of the night was when Karen and Carlos took to the floor to perform an Argentine tango inspired by Peaky Blinders, set to “Red Right Hand” by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds.
Judges Praise their Routine
The judges were impressed, awarding the duo an impressive score of 38 points. This score placed them just behind Lewis Cope and Katya Jones, who earned a perfect score of 40, marking the pinnacle of the 2025 series thus far. Judge Anton Du Beke remarked that the performance was “extraordinarily good,” and head judge Shirley Ballas praised Karen for “absolutely smashing the choreography.”
Fan Reactions and Nostalgia
While the judges applauded their performance, fans on social media expressed nostalgia, recalling a previous Argentine tango by Joe Sugg and Dianne Buswell to the same song in 2018. Comments included:
- @LeahXBarnes: “Giving Joe and Dianne!! Kaz smashed it. Enjoyed that!! #strictly.”
- @hannahjbuswell: “That dance was brilliant, but I couldn’t help but visualize Joe and Dianne’s AT for every bit #strictly.”
- @xViCkIx_: “Can’t listen to this song without thinking about Joe & Dianne’s dance in 2018 #StrictlyComeDancing #Strictly.”
- @nancyswheeIer: “Welcome back Joe and Dianne! #strictly.”
- @alanahisrugby: “All I could think about watching Karen and Carlos’s Argentine tango to Red Right Hand is Joe Sugg and Dianne Buswell’s Argentine tango to the same song.”
Despite the nostalgic comparisons, Karen expressed her excitement after the performance, revealing that Peaky Blinders is her favorite show. The episode highlighted both the talent of the contestants and the deep connections that fans have with past performances on the iconic show.
