Balvinder Sopal Makes History on Strictly Come Dancing With Record-Breaking Semi-Final Run
EastEnders Star Defies Expectations in Strictly 2025
Balvinder Sopal, known for her portrayal as Suki Panesar in EastEnders since January 2020, was announced as a contestant on the twenty-third series of Strictly Come Dancing in August 2025, partnered with Julian Caillon. What followed has been one of the most remarkable journeys in the show’s history.
Setting an Unprecedented Record
As of this month, Balvinder Sopal has officially survived more dance-offs than any other Strictly Come Dancing contestant in history, surpassing previous record-holder Jamelia who was sent home after her fifth dance-off. In contrast, Balvinder has triumphed in all five of her dance-offs, demonstrating resilience and determination that has captivated audiences.
The 47-year-old actress has outdone singer Jamelia’s previous record of landing in the dance-off five times and being eliminated on her fifth appearance. Her ability to return stronger after each challenge has made her a fan favourite, with supporters attributing her success to her positive attitude and emotional performances.
Semi-Final Performance and Leaderboard Position
During the semi-final show, emotions ran high in the penultimate week of the competition, with Balvinder Sopal’s partner Julian Caillon becoming emotional following their Salsa to ‘Get on Your Feet’ by Gloria Estefan after he revealed his mother had flown to London from Australia for the weekend to see him dance. The semi-final leaderboard showed Balvinder and Julian scoring 35 points for each of their two dances, totalling 70 points, placing them fourth among the remaining couples.
Journey to the Semi-Final
Her stunning Viennese Waltz to ‘Never Enough’ from The Greatest Showman, alongside dance partner Julian Caillon, earned her 35 points from the judges and won the hearts of the public, allowing her to bypass the dreaded dance-off in the quarter-final round. Balvinder Sopal secured a place in the Strictly Come Dancing semi-final after a surprising Musicals Week twist that left fans stunned and the judges split.
What Makes Balvinder’s Story Resonate
Strictly enthusiasts have been speculating about why Balvinder has managed to survive the dance-off so many times, attributing it to her positive attitude. Fans have rallied behind her inspiring story, with many hoping she makes it to the final. Balvinder acknowledged her journey, stating she has ‘ended up in the dance off five times, been saved, come back fighting and set a new record in the process’, expressing gratitude for viewer support.
Looking Ahead
Despite her impressive run, bookies have predicted Balvinder will leave the competition this weekend, as she is expected to be back in the bottom two, with bookies not thinking she’ll survive. However, she has already proven doubters wrong multiple times this series.
Whether Balvinder Sopal lifts the Glitterball trophy or not, her record-breaking journey on Strictly Come Dancing 2025 has already cemented her place in the show’s history. Her story of resilience, determination, and fighting spirit has inspired viewers nationwide, proving that success isn’t always measured by leaderboard positions, but by the courage to keep dancing.