'It just doesn't make sense to have a top on': Louis Smith's last-ditch attempt to take home the Strictly Come Dancing crown.. performing shirtless in the final
By SARAH BULL
He's already the bookies' tip to take home the Strictly Come Dancing trophy on the final on Saturday night.
But being the odds-on favourite isn't enough for Olympic gymnast Louis Smith, who has revealed he will be going shirtless in a last-ditch attempt to get viewers to vote for him in the last show.
Explaining his decision to shed his costume for his routine, Louis, who is currently 8/15 to win, told Heat magazine that a lack of clothing is vital to making his routine work.
Last ditch attempt: Louis Smith will be going shirtless on the Strictly Come Dancing final on Saturday night in a bid to be crowned the winner
He said: 'It's quite contemporary music and dance and it doesn't make sense to do it in baggy trousers and shoes. So we have gone with tight trousers.
'And then it doesn't make sense to have a top on. When you watch it you will understand.'
Louis is competing against Denise Van Outen, Kimberley Walsh and Dani Harmer in the final of the show on Saturday evening.
Can she beat him? Kimberley Walsh is second favourite to take home the trophy, closely followed by Dani Harmer
Not quite there: Denise Van Outen is the least likely finalist to be crowned the winner according to current odds, with her recent injuries also holding her back
And Girls Aloud star Kimberley is close on Louis' tail, according to current betting odds from William Hill, with odds of 2/1 that she will win the show.
STRICTLY COME DANCING ODDS, OUTRIGHT WINNER (WILLIAM HILL)
Louis Smith 8/15
Kimberley Walsh 2/1
Dani Harmer 12/1
Denise van Outen 14/1
Tracy Beaker actress Dani Harmer is third likeliest to win, with odds of 12/1, with Denise Van Outen rounding off the pack at the bottom with odds of 14/1 that she will win.
But a spokesperson for William Hill told MailOnline things could still change, adding: 'This has been one of the most unpredictable Strictlys in history.
'Louis, Kimberley and Denise have all been favourites over the course the series.
'Dani has snuck in under the radar somewhat but she has been very well backed in recent weeks and any one of the four finalists would be a worthy winner.'
However, it remains to be seen how Denise will do in her final routine given her recent spate of injuries - which include a dislocated rib.
Who will be crowned champion? But it is ultimately up to viewers who wins the show
After the news of her injury broke on Friday, Denise wrote on Twitter: 'To all of you. Thanks so much for your kind words and support. Whatever happens tomorrow me & @The_JamesJordan are so grateful to you all x'
But Denise appeared slightly more positive on Saturday morning, tweeting: 'On my way to BBC for Strictly final preparations. Can't believe its the last day!'
The Strictly Come Dancing final airs on BBC1 on Saturday night at 6.30pm, with the results airing later at 8.50pm.
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