Strictly's Jamie Borthwick discusses show bromance and addresses Tom Dean's departure

EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick has opened up about his time on Strictly Come Dancing and the "close bond" he shares with his co-stars - including a 'bromance'

Strictly Come Dancing's Jamie Borthwick has shed light on his close friendship with co-star Shayne Ward, while also addressing Tom Dean's departure from the show.

The 30-year-old joined the spin-off programme It Takes Two to chat about his journey on the popular BBC series and his progress in the competition. Alongside dance partner Michelle Tsiakkas, they reflected on their sensual rumba routine from the previous week.

However, host Janette Manrara was keen to delve into another budding relationship behind the scenes.

She said: "But Jamie the partnership with Michelle is not the only partnership you've got going on this series, is it?". Sharing a video of Jamie singing Shane's winning X Factor singer alongside him, the EastEnders star watched the clip and smiled in awe.

While chuckling at the video and joking about releasing an album with Shane, Jamie said: "We are such a really close group and it's so sad with Tom going last week, we've lost him and every week someone is going to go. Janette added: "It doesn't get any easier. It gets harder and harder," reports the Express.

"It's horrible," Jamie concurred. In other parts of their discussion, Janette touched upon Jamie and Michelle's rumba that sparked controversy amongst judges. Craig had notably critiqued the routine harshly at the time. He remarked: "I felt it lacked an emotional connection between both of you! It felt like you were dancing by numbers."

He continued, pointing out that the performance seemed overly calculated and failed to "lift". He added: "I felt like we lost the story. I felt like we lost everything that rumba is about."

However, reflecting on his divisive routine which left the judges at odds, the actor expressed his disagreement with Craig's critique, taking solace in head judge Shirley Ballas' appreciation of the dance. It Takes Two viewers also weighed in with their opinions.

One fan commented: "The dance flowed really well and Rumba walks and use of arms was good as well. There was also good chemistry. He needs to work on details but no Rumba is perfect for Week 2. I enjoyed this dance and love this partnership."

Another wrote: "It's great how much Jamie loves the Rumba. I always loved it too but so many of the celebs don't seem to. It's a beautiful dance when it's done well."

Meanwhile, another informed fellow fans: "Jamie and Michelle's Rumba was the 25th Week 2 Rumba on #Strictly. They matched the score of Lesley Garrett and Anton du Beke from the very first series and just seven couple's have scored higher in W2. Only one male celebrity too. The great Ricky Whittle in Series 7."

Strictly's It Takes Two airs weekdays at 6:30pm on BBC Two.