Ashley Taylor Dawson and Ola Jordan Eliminated After Second Dance-Off Showdown
Hollyoaks actor Ashley Taylor Dawson and his professional dance partner Ola Jordan found themselves in the dance-off once again on Sunday night’s Strictly Come Dancing. Facing off against Patrick Robinson and Anya Garnis—for the second time as well—the tension was palpable as both couples performed their routines once more for the judges.
Ashley and Ola delivered their lively Salsa to Gloria Estefan’s “Conga,” while Patrick and Anya performed a Rumba set to Bruno Mars’ “When I Was Your Man.” After both routines, it was up to the judges to decide their fate.
Craig, Darcey, and Bruno all chose to save Patrick and Anya, meaning Ashley and Ola were the tenth couple to be eliminated from the competition. However, head judge Len Goodman voiced his disagreement, stating he would have saved Ashley and Ola instead.
Len explained, “I totally disagreed with this verdict. Ashley may have missed the last lift, but if I hadn’t seen it before, I wouldn’t have noticed anything was missing. Plus, Rumba has one golden rule—never lead with the heel—and Patrick broke that multiple times. Based on that, I would’ve gone with Ashley 100%.”
Despite the setback, Ashley and Ola gave their all in their final dance, and even a drum segment from Ashley couldn’t secure them a place in the semi-finals. Ola’s anxious expression as they awaited the results said it all, but the pair remained gracious in defeat.
Looking back on his journey, Ashley reflected, “It’s been an incredible experience—meeting the crew, the makeup and costume teams, the judges, and all the contestants. I’ve had a fantastic time, and dancing with Ola has been a joy. Huge love to my fiancée for holding it down while I’ve been away—I’m coming home!”
When asked about his highlight, Ashley smiled and replied, “Definitely the Salsa. We gave it everything—kitchen sink included—so I’m happy we went out on a high.”
Ola added warmly, “I’ve had so much fun dancing with you, Ashley. You’re such a lovely guy. Good luck with everything you do.”
The night also featured a special guest performance by The Saturdays, who lit up the stage with their hit single What About Us.
As the competition heats up, next week’s semi-final will see the five remaining celebrities take on the challenge of performing two dances.
Later that evening, Ashley was spotted letting loose in casual clothes, enjoying a game of darts with fellow pros James Jordan and Brendan Cole—proof that even after elimination, the Strictly spirit lives on.