Originally Posted by *Topaz*:
“I agree with the comments that Ola and James themselves probably wouldn't mind moving on from the Strictly - I know they both have their shortcomings but on balance I like them both and I would miss them if they left, but as already stated they've both had a long tenure on strictly and even I have to admit they were both looking slightly jaded last series - although I guess this wasn't helped by Ola having the frustrations of dealing with a celeb that looked like a contender on paper but in reality had limited training time due to filming scedules/impending fatherhood/being knackered and er James having a celeb perceived as annoying/challenging.
It's a pity James has never got to hold the mirror ball - but other pros that have not won and left are still remembered fondly.
If they do leave - I'd like it to be presented as an amicable/mutual decision between them and the strictly producers a la Karen Hardy, Flavia, Vincent, Erin etc and not the badly handled firings of Darren, Lilia and Aliona (before she was rehired), because that just creates bad feeling. So I hope if they leave they both remain within the 'family' - and are still offered roles such as appearances on Christmas Specials and ITT.”
Yes, I agree, even if it's just PR. Not keen on James personally but he's been a real hard-worker for ages, so deserves respect for dragging some of his lesser Celebs beyond their normal limits; Ola is divine and will find lots of opportunities for years to come, so they can capitalise on their fame/achievements beyond Strictly.
While I still miss Darren, Lilia & Ian Waite, I DO like the idea of this show being a Rolling Showcase for the Best in the 'Ballroom' circuit, and changing the pro's every few years gives fair opportunities to more. Once they've 'scored' with The Public, they've a good career ahead plus we've a chance to see those we particularly admired. So it can be A Good Thing, depending how they use it.