Strictly Come Dancing’s Susan Calman had to be consoled after becoming emotional following her performance on Saturday night.

The comedian, 43, and partner Kevin Clifton danced a tango to Katy Perry’s Firework in week eight of the competition, but dropped their normal comedic approach to performing.

Their move paid off with head judge Shirley Ballas saying Calman had made “huge strides” since her first dance on the show.

She added: “I’m used to seeing you in a comic role … Not only did you bring it, you had lovely footwork.”

Ballas also told the comic she had danced from the heart to which a tearful Calman, and fans on Twitter, agreed.

@BexianaSmith tweeted: “Can breathe again now. Brilliant Tango – thought Susan was going to cry halfway through – a very emotional and intense dance.”

@Manicboo wrote: “Susan Calman nailed that tango, actually made me do a small cry. Undermarked by Craig and Darcy in my opinion.”

@TheBrokenKindle posted: “Aww, Susan – don’t cry sweetie! You looked amazing.”

@MhairiQ tweeted: “Awesome @SusanCalman!! Love how you put your heart out there each dance #Strictly #tangoface.”

The couple picked up 27 for the performance after Craig Revel Horwood and Darcey Bussell scored them a five and six respectively.

Ballas and Bruno Tonioli opted for an eight apiece for the dance.