EASTENDERS star Jamie Borthwick has defended Strictly Come Dancing after a series of scandals rocked its 20th year.

The actor, 30, broke ranks at the Live Tour’s final show to demand its future be “protected”.

Screenshot of judges and contestants at a dance competition.
5

Jamie Borthwick made the comments on stage during the final tour showCredit: The Sun

Kai Widdrington and Tasha Ghouri at the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour photocall.
5

Jamie was dancing with professional Michelle TsiakkasCredit: The Mega Agency

Wynne Evans in a blue suit at the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour launch.
5

Wynne Evans was axed from the Strictly Live TourCredit: Rex
It comes after BBC star Wynne Evans, 53, was kicked off for making a joke about having a threesome with tour host Janette, 41.

Speaking to the London O2 crowd on Sunday night, Jamie said: “Strictly is such a fantastic show. The people on this show are amazing.

“And I think we all agree, as Strictly fans, that it should be protected and looked after because we love it and it brings so much entertainment to people.”

Strictly judges Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse began to clap, as well as Anton Du Beke, but Craig Revel Horwood did not join in.

Jamie continued: “I’ve honestly had the most amazing experience with every single person, including my lovely new sister Michelle. She’s absolutely fantastic.

“And I just want to thank every single person for all their support all through the show. It’s been brilliant. Thank you so much.”

Jamie went on to win the tour’s glitterball trophy on the final night of the live shows.

Tasha Ghouri looked stunned to miss out on the award – having won it the most alongside Sarah Hadland.

The 2024 series winner Chris McCausland was not on the tour, but gave fans a special video message to apologise for missing out.

The tour got off to a difficult start when Go Compare ads opera singer Wynne was heard using the term “spit roast” to Jamie while standing beside Janette.

He has since appointed lawyers over his axing from the tour after making lewd jokes.

Wynne was then taken off air from BBC Radio Wales and replaced by Robin Windsor.

Sources say the 53-year-old is being advised over the potential to sue for breach of contract and loss of earnings.

He apologised at the time saying: “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise.”

The incident was the most recent upset in one of the most disastrous years in the contest’s history.

Two of its most popular dancers, Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima, were axed following allegations that they caused great distress to their famous partners.

Zara McDermott and Amanda Abbington both accused the dancers of bullying behaviour.

Wynne also faced backlash after his dance partner Katya Jones was spotted pushing his wandering hand off her waist.

They issued an apology after the awkward moment on live TV, telling fans: “It was a silly joke.”

Jamie Borthwick leaving a hotel with luggage.
5

EastEnders star Jamie will now return to the soap after finishing the Strictly tourCredit: Splash

Screenshot of a dance competition judging panel and a couple embracing.
5

The judges applauded Jamie’s commentsCredit: The Sun