The second week of Strictly Come Dancing's 2025 series has sparked considerable discussion among fans, revolving around a contestant's health revelation, a perceived gaffe by a judge, and unexpected changes to the show's format, alongside standout performances.

Former footballer Karen Carney, 38, revealed during the Saturday night live show that she has been suffering from Scheuermann's disease since childhood. This condition causes the spine vertebrae to grow into a curve, significantly impacting her ability to open her back, a crucial element for ballroom dancing posture. Karen, partnered with Carlos Gu, candidly shared: "I have this thing called Scheuermann's. I've had it since I was a kid, it's a curve in my spine. It's really, really hard for me to open my back up. There are certain elements that I just won't be able to do as I'd love to, but Carlos is really supportive, really encouraging."

Following Karen's emotional admission, judge Motsi Mabuse thanked her for sharing but then made comments that drew criticism from viewers. Motsi stated: "It's going to be something that we have to challenge to see how far we can really stretch and open up because it's a ballroom dance and there's a specific posture that we need." Fans quickly took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), questioning Mabuse's remarks. User @lindakimou asked if Motsi was suggesting Karen had to 'work' on her spinal curvature, while @RachelCDailey expressed disgust, arguing Motsi should accommodate, not challenge, the condition. @karenberryphoto echoed this sentiment, sharing her own experience with spinal curvature. However, some viewers, like @EwanGubb, defended Mabuse, interpreting her comments as an intention to push Karen's capabilities within her limits and acknowledging the challenge.

Beyond the judging panel, fans also noticed a significant format change early in the second live show. Traditionally, presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman receive an introduction from Alan Dedicoat, but this was notably absent on Saturday night. Viewers, including @ShakyWoon, @miss_traceydav, @RyanSoapKing25, and @meganpsitn, expressed their surprise and dissatisfaction with the missing introductions for the beloved hosts.

Despite the controversies, the competition saw several memorable performances. Internet personality George Clarke, partnered with Alexis Warr, particularly captivated the audience, leaving many speechless. Fans on social media were quick to declare him a potential winner, with comments like "Give George that glitter ball RIGHT NOW" and "George has honestly surprised me so much like he's really quite great which I wasn't expecting." Another notable performance came from former Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison, who moved some fans to tears with her dance to a Sam Fender song.

The current series of Strictly Come Dancing, which launched on Saturday, September 20, with judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke, also features contestants such as Amber Davies, Thomas Skinner, Lewis Cope, Chris Robshaw, Ellie Goldstein, and Balvinder Sopal. A major procedural change has been implemented for eliminations this year: the deciding vote after a dance-off, traditionally held by head judge Shirley Ballas, will now rotate weekly among the four judges. This means any of the judges could have the final say, though if the first three judges are unanimous, a fourth vote is not required. The first elimination for the 2025 series is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 5, at 7:15pm on BBC One.