However, viewers were quick to say the same thing as Strictly didn’t go straight into its usual introduction with the iconic theme tune.
They complained about the big text used to share Erivo’s achievements and introduce her, saying it felt like they were watching the now-retired singing competition The X Factor.
This Cynthia intro is giving X Factor results VT #Strictly
— Jake (@JakeThomasLong) October 11, 2025
Strictly viewers share same complaint about introduction to show
On X, formerly Twitter, one viewer said: “Thought I was watching x factor for a sec #Strictly”.
This person shared: “This Cynthia intro is giving X Factor results VT #Strictly”.
Another commented: “Stop trying to make #strictly the xfactor producers… #StrictlyComeDancing”.
“#strictly… this is giving x factor”, said another viewer.
Someone else shared: “Sorry why is the intro for Cynthia giving X-Factor
“Esp the text #StrictlyComeDancing #Strictly”.
The 38-year-old actress and singer from London is appearing during movie week, having previously appeared on the show as a guest judge for two weeks in 2021, covering for Craig Revel Horwood and later Motsi Mabuse.
Tonight’s (October 11) show also opened with the professional dancers performing a Wicked-themed dance to As Long As You’re Mine which will be sung by Erivo’s character Elphaba opposite Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero in the upcoming Wicked For Good sequel.
Despite the complaints, other viewers were pleased to see Cynthia on the show with one saying: “Cynthia Erivo is such a QUEEN, this is so so iconic”.
Another shared: “CYNTHIA LOOKS INCREDIBLE! #Strictly”.
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The singer and actress, who rose to worldwide prominence last year for her role in Wicked, was also nominated for the BET Her Award, which recognises empowering songs that focus on women, for her rendition of Defying Gravity.
Erivo released her second studio album, I Forgive You, in June this year and she revealed that the “Britpop” elements in her songs were inspired by Blur and Oasis.
She said the album was also influenced by the likes of Enya, the Spice Girls and Brandy, while speaking at a preview playback event for the record.
