IT’S not the first time the dancer has felt the need to protect Chris from criticism

DIANNE Buswell has slammed a Strictly viewer who suggested the only reason Chris McCausland hasn’t been voted off is because he’s blind.

The comedian, and dance partner Dianne, are through to the show semi-final, after coming through musicals week.

5

Diane Buswell and Chris McCausland are through to the strictly semi-finalsCredit: PA
Chris and Dianne’s quickstep to You’re The Top, from Anything Goes, was enough to see them progress in the competition.

And Dianne has taken issue with the suggestion that the only reason they remain on the show is because Chris is unable to see.

In response to one fan on X, saying of the 47-year-old: “He’s only through because he’s blind.”

Dianne clapped back with: “He absolutely is not!”

It’s not the first time the 35-year-old Aussie has come to Chris’s aid.

On Saturday night’s show, she had a go at judge Craig Revel Horwood, for commenting on Chris’s posture after their dance.

She said: “We mustn’t forget that for 20-odd years Chris’s safe space has been down here, so for him to stand up actually makes me quite emotional.

“It’s a big thing that we’ve overcome, and you’ve done so well.”

Struggling to contain his excitement after they got through, Chris took to X to thank fans for their support.

He wrote: “We’ve only gone and reached the b****y #Strictly  semi-final! I am so proud of what we have achieved.

“We have always challenged ourselves and given 100%. Thank you for all of your votes and support.

“It’s honestly overwhelming. Lots of love X.”

Montell Douglas was the celebrity eliminated this week, meaning Chris, JB Gill, Tasha Ghouri, Sarah Hadland and Pete Wicks complete the semi-final line up.

5

Dianne Buswell has defended Chris McCausland more than onceCredit: PA

5

Chris is the show’s first blind contestantCredit: PA

5

Diane didn’t like Craig Revel Horwood commenting on Chris’s postureCredit: PA

5

Chris has thanked fans for votingCredit: PA