Karim and Amy amaze Strictly judges and receive first 40 of the series

The couple performed an incredible jive to a song from the musical Hairspray

This competition is now closed

Published: Saturday, 30th November 2019 at 8:26 pm

Karim Zeroual and Amy Dowden have earned the first perfect score of this series of Strictly Come Dancing, sending them straight to the top of this week’s leaderboard.

The CBBC presenter took to the stage with his partner and aced a routine to “You Can’t Stop The Beat” from the Broadway musical Hairspray.

The incredible result is particularly notable for Karim and Amy, as they found themselves in the dance off last week against Saffron Barker and AJ Pritchard.

You can't stop the beat – or their dancing feet! This Jive's stronger than firm hold Hairspray @Kayzer_1 and @dowden_amy. ????‍♀️ #Strictly pic.twitter.com/LaO3O4FyLv

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) November 30, 2019

Karim utilised all of his theatre school talents for the performance, taking note of some tips from stage legend and former Hairspray star Michael Ball in rehearsals.

Judges Motsi, Bruno and Shirley gave the dance a standing ovation, while Craig stayed characteristically stern and seated, prompting fears he might lash out with some of his trademark harsh criticism.

However, when Tess passed to him for his verdict, he dramatically stood up and gave the dance his own personal standing ovation before gushing over it with the rest of the judging panel.

Bruno went so far as to say it was the best Jive that the series has ever seen.

They took us to the 60s and scored a 40! Congratulations Karim and Amy. ???? #Strictly pic.twitter.com/gkFyUggOWo

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) November 30, 2019

Karim and Amy received tens across the board, marking not only the first 40 of the year but also Craig’s first 10 of the series.

Motsi was thrilled with his generosity, giving him a peck on the cheek as he revealed his score.

Best ever @bbcstrictly #StrictlyComeDancing tonight. Craig’s face ???? pic.twitter.com/LGbFPPg6Gu

— Martin Wedge (@martinwedge) November 30, 2019

The performance places Karim firmly at the top of this week’s Strictly leaderboard, with Kelvin and Emma close behind at 39 points each, while Chris and Alex are trailing a little with 28 and 27 respectively.

The votes for this week’s episode will be revealed tomorrow night on Strictly Come Dancing: The Results at 7:20pm on BBC One.