Sarah Hadland Shines on Strictly Come Dancing
Sarah Hadland, best known for her role in the comedy series Miranda, has drawn both praise and controversy during her stint on Strictly Come Dancing. In the latest episode, which aired from the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom, Hadland delivered a powerful Couples Choice performance to Kylie Minogue’s “Padam Padam.” The 53-year-old actress expressed the deep emotional significance of the dance, revealing how it resonated with numerous women her age who feel discouraged from dancing again.
With tears in her eyes, Hadland told the camera, “Other people aren’t telling me what I can and can’t do. I am,” urging women everywhere to challenge their self-imposed limits. Her heartfelt performance garnered a near-perfect score of 39, her highest of the season, with head judge Shirley Ballas praising her achievement for women.
However, Hadland’s routine received criticism from judge Craig Revel Horwood, who labelled it as “a bit too perfect,” leaving fans baffled. Despite his remarks, which were met with boos from the audience, other judges awarded her three 10s, illustrating a division in opinion.
Hadland, who has a rich background in dance, trained from the age of three and actively performed in West End musicals before stepping into the current competition. This experience has sparked debate among viewers regarding the fairness of her participation. Addressing comments regarding her age, Hadland expressed a desire for society to change the narrative surrounding older women’s capabilities, championing visibility and acceptance in the performing arts.
As she continues to shine in the competition, the support of her family, including emotional tributes from her mother, adds to the narrative of resilience and empowerment that has become central to her journey on Strictly Come Dancing.

Strictly’s Sarah Hadland in tears as she explains meaning behind Couples Choice dance
‘I didn’t know this is what I needed,’ the ‘Miranda’ star said
www.independent.co.uk
Strictly Come Dancing star faces backlash over two-word comment to Sarah Hadland
BBC viewers were left unimpressed as Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood told Sarah Hadland and her partner Vito Coppola that their routin
www.mirror.co.ukStrictly’s Sarah Hadland begs viewers to stop commenting on sensitive topic
Star of Miranda Sarah Hadland who is currently competing on Strictly Come Dancing has asked viewers to stop commenting on her age.
www.thenational.scot
Strictly star Sarah Hadland's previous dance experience revealed
The Miranda star is a trained dancer
www.hellomagazine.com
Strictly Come Dancing's Craig Revel Horwood shocks crowd with Sarah Hadland gripe
Is it possible to be too perfect?
www.radiotimes.com
Strictly Come Dancing fans 'switch off' as they rage at judge's comment to star
Strictly Come Dancing fans were left fuming at their TV sets on Saturday night following judge Craig Revel-Horwood's comments made towards Sarah Hadla
www.dailyrecord.co.uk
Sarah Hadland and Tasha Ghouri jointly top Strictly leaderboard at Blackpool
The results show airs on Sunday.
www.expressandstar.com
Sarah Hadland's mum makes emotional admission about her 'as a mummy'
The Miranda actress was supported by her family as she danced in the special Blackpool show
www.birminghammail.co.uk
Strictly Come Dancing backlash after four-word comment to star
It wasn't 'good job, well done'
www.devonlive.com