Josh Widdicombe Pokes Fun at Strictly Pro Neil Jones Over Partner Snub

Strictly Come Dancing host Josh Widdicombe took aim at veteran professional dancer Neil Jones during Sunday's results show, poking fun at the dancer's recurring status as one of the few without a celebrity partner. Jones, who joined the BBC dance competition in 2016, has reportedly not been partnered with a celebrity for seven of his ten years on the show.

During a pre-dance segment featuring the professional dancers and judges, Jones found himself the subject of lighthearted jabs when the judges' teams were formed. As judges Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke selected their teams, Jones was left unchosen, prompting fellow judge Craig Revel Horwood to console him by suggesting he could act as the referee. Jones then participated in the dance itself, providing comedic moments and even playing the piano.

At the conclusion of the performance, Widdicombe humorously remarked, "Can we just have a round of applause for the real star, Neil?" Jones then entered the frame holding an "applause" sign. This moment comes after Jones posted an Instagram video during the show's launch episode addressing his lack of a partner, humorously depicting himself attempting to throw a pen into a bin, with the caption stating, "if I get the pen in the bin I will get a celeb partner." He missed the shot, and fellow pro Kai Widdrington caught the pen off-camera.

Jones also joked about his extensive accolades, including Guinness World Records and numerous titles, suggesting it would be "greedy" to also win the glitterball trophy this year, implying he wanted to give other dancers a chance. The post was met with positive reactions from fans and co-stars.

It was previously reported that Jones missed filming several pre-recorded group dances due to an injury sustained during rehearsals, which may have contributed to his limited role in recent performances. Last year, Jones was paired with singer Toyah Willcox, but they were eliminated after two weeks.

The program also saw moments of perceived tension between host Widdicombe and judge Motsi Mabuse, and a brief awkward exchange between Widdicombe and judge Craig Revel Horwood. During feedback for contestant Dani Dyer and her partner Nikita Kuzmin, Widdicombe appeared to make hand gestures at Revel Horwood, who questioned the host's actions on air. Mabuse had previously addressed speculation about tension with Widdicombe, calling him her "friend" after Widdicombe made a joke directed at her.