'I'M A 10 IN SHIRLEY'S EYES!'

Comedian Eddie Kadi fills us in on his special connection with Strictly's head judge and how he's training hard to impress pro partner Karen

- JEN PHARO

Strictly Come Dancing is famous for conjuring strong bonds between the professional dancers and their celebrity partners – but in Eddie Kadi’s case, it’s head judge Shirley Ballas who has captured his heart.

The comic, 40, who is partnered with Karen Hauer, blew Shirley a kiss during show one and was thrilled to get one back. In show two, Shirley praised Eddie’s “thrust”. Now he says they have a “connection”.

Sadly, Eddie’s flirtation with Shirley isn’t translating into high scores.

“Everyone saw me blow that kiss to Shirley,” says Eddie. “Not because she’s the head judge but because we connect. I’m a 10 in her eyes, she’s a 10 in mine but politically she had to give me a six!”

Eddie has come in for some heavy criticism from the judges, but he’s taken it all on the chin and is trying to become the best dancer he can – while bringing joy to the programme.

“I want them to understand where I’m coming from and the person I am,” says Eddie. “All I want to leave is a legacy of joy.”

Eddie’s certainly bringing joy to his dance partner Karen, and the pair laugh a lot during their training sessions.

“He has this amazing energy,” says Karen. “We literally have laughed so much. I’ve cried! Not because he’s doing the wrong stuff, but because he’s actually making me laugh.”