Strictly's Rose Ayling-Ellis joins audience to support James Bye

Strictly Come Dancing's reigning champion Rose Ayling-Ellis was among EastEnders stars past and present who showed support for James Bye tonight (October 22).

James – who plays Martin Fowler on the soap – and pro partner Amy Dowden received a middling judges' score of 26 in the end, but they certainly felt the love from the crowd. Their routine was a foxtrot set to a mix of the soap's iconic 'Julia's Theme' and its end credits theme.

After James and Amy wrapped up their routine, the camera picked up audience members applauding their routine including Rose, plus current EastEnders stars Gillian Wright and Scott Maslen (who himself competed in Strictly back in 2010).

What to read next

Rose and Scott were among a number of past Strictly contestants seen in the audience for the BBC centenary special.

Sara Cox, Clara Amfo and Gethin Jones were among those who viewers spotted in the studio, while the opening routine featured cameos from Charles Venn and Emma Barton as the Strictly pros 'gatecrashed' their shows.

Head judge Shirley Ballas told James in the feedback section: "I can tell that you've got amazing work ethic. I can see that you are working very, very hard.

"Great narrative, lots of warm cuddles at the beginning, I loved the entry for sure."

Anton Du Beke went on to add: "There was a lot to like. The opening was dramatic and beautifully done," before the pair ascended the studio stairs and spoke to co-host Claudia Winkleman.

On the routine's emotional significance, James admitted: "Before the BBC gave me a contract and EastEnders took me on, I was struggling with work and stuff – I've got a family and kids you know... so I owe literally everything to EastEnders. So thank you."

Earlier this week, the soap actor commended Amy's choreography for their Foxtrot.

"I think Amy has choreographed it so there's a story that runs through the whole thing and it's great," he said.

"I think this could be, if we get it right, it could be a really good week for us. This is something that the audience hasn't seen from us yet."

Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One, while spin-off show Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows also stream on BBC iPlayer.