I like James and Ola. It was hardly surprising they were staying since Ola won last series, and got the most out of Chris who wasn't initially seen as a potential winner. James's personality came across well last series, especially in ITT (I think Zoe was not the most outgoing of celebs off the dance floor and so I don't think it is entirely fair to say he doesn't attract votes - same with Cherie).

When I saw them give a show at Maidstone in April, they both seemed quite confident about staying. (Not so much what they said as just their general manner when discussing it. They did say at that time that nothing had been decided, but were hoping to come back).

Ola looks absolutely stunning live - even more so than on TV.

I don't know for sure, but I've heard a few things in the past that suggest that the Bennetts were kept on up to now more because of Lilia than because of Darren. I suspect it's true as although I think Darren is lovely (especially live), Lilia seems to have more of a following and also more of a quirky personality. Judging from the cull, the BBC don't place a high value on personalities that are first and foremost 'nice'. Not saying the others aren't nice... just they are bad boys/ladies men/Vincent on the surface. Darren is nice on the surface (and elsewhere as well obviously)- same really for the other four who were eliminated.

Hehe that made me laugh - Vincent in a category of his own! He'd love you for that!

I think you're right, I've always got the impression that Lilia has more a following than Darren, and it is strange that all the simply 'nice' guys got axed. That's not to say the male pros left aren't lovely though - James is totally lovely in person and Vincent is just Vincent - can't fail to be charmed by him, or at least i can't!

For me the problem is that apart for Aliona, I thought the mix of pros was now spot on. Aliona is the weak link for me, but I know others like her.

Changing the pros is not where I would have started with any revamp of the show - not even Anton.

Tks I suspect you are right saying it is the nice ones, those four would be the first four i would name if asked who were the nicest male pro's and the ones you could never imagine getting stroppy with their celeb (i would add Vincent into the last bit aswell, but his antics were in the paper so maybe that and his flirting saved him ) i am glad cos i love Vincent but still feel very sorry for the others