Speculation has erupted amongst BBC Strictly Come Dancing enthusiasts following Sunday evening's results programme, where professional dancer Johannes Radebe delivered what numerous viewers interpreted as a farewell to the entire series.
The 38-year-old South African dancer's words during his elimination alongside celebrity partner Alex Kingston sparked immediate concern across social media platforms.
Mr Radebe's emotional address to his "Strictly family" struck many as more than a typical departure speech following a couple's exit from the competition.
The professional dancer, affectionately known as "Jojo", appeared to bid farewell not merely to this year's contest but potentially to the programme itself, according to multiple viewer interpretations.
BBC Strictly: Fans believe Johannes Radebe might be leaving the show
|BBC
His phrasing and delivery prompted widespread discussion about whether the beloved professional might be departing the BBC show permanently.
During the emotional moment, Mr Radebe expressed gratitude to Ms Kingston, stating: "Thank you because I've never grinned as much in my life as I have in the last couple of weeks. Thank you, Alex, for being a trooper. I appreciate the laughs. I will hold on to the memories."
Following Ms Kingston's comment that "these memories are just the beginning for us," Mr Radebe turned towards his professional colleagues.
"To my Strictly family, I'm very grateful," he declared, before repeating his thanks multiple times.
BBC Strictly: Johannes Radebe's exit speech left fans concerned
|BBC
The heartfelt address prompted an audible reaction from fellow professional Carlos Gu, who partners Karen Carney this series.
"We love you," Gu could be heard calling out to Mr Radebe during the poignant moment.
The exchange concluded with Mr Radebe expressing appreciation to both Ms Kingston and presenter Tess Daly.
Viewers immediately took to social media platform X to express their concerns about the speech's implications.
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BBC Strictly: Johannes Radebe has been a favourite since joining the show in 2018
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"That sounded like a final farewell from Johannes! Is he going? Due to musical theatre," one fan posted.
Another viewer commented: "I got the feeling that it's Johannes last series? Because it seemed like he said goodbye to the pros and judges and everyone? Really sad if he does go, but I wish him well."
A third person observed: "Why did that sound like a final goodbye from Johannes?!?"
One fan noted Radebe's demeanour throughout the current series, writing: "I so hope not but he's been very subdued this series. He's my favorite pro dancer."
Additional viewers expressed similar sentiments, with one stating: "That also felt like a goodbye from Johannes too and that is a very sad thing to contemplate."
Mr Radebe became part of the Strictly professional roster in 2018, having previously performed on the South African edition of the programme.
His first celebrity partnership came in 2019 with Coronation Street performer Catherine Tydlesley, followed by pairings with Caroline Quentin, John Whaite, Ellie Taylor, Annabel Croft, Gladiators presenter Montell Douglas and Kingston.
The dancer created television history in 2021 when partnered with Great British Bake Off champion Whaite as the programme's inaugural same-sex pairing.