Strictly Come Dancing's Nikita Kuzmin issued an emotional plea to viewers after he and Amber Davies appeared in the semi-final. Nikita spoke in defence of Amber (Image: BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing professional Nikita Kuzmin sparked controversy amongst viewers after he pleaded with them to "be kind" to his dance partner Amber Davies .

Following their Couple's Choice routine to RAYE's version of Fly Me to the Moon, Nikita, 27, and Amber received the full 40 points from judges Craig Revel Horwood , Shirley Ballas , Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke. This result placed them second on the leaderboard, having already earned 27 points earlier in the evening for their Tango.

After their performance, Nikita and Amber chatted with presenter Claudia Winkleman , where the professional

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