Strictly's Nikita Kuzmin hailed an 'inspiration' for 'representing' those with this health condition after going shirtless for final dance with Tilly Ramsay

Strictly’s Nikita Kuzmin has been hailed as the ultimate “inspiration” as he proudly represented those with his health condition during his topless final dance with Tilly Ramsay. 

Ever since the Strictly Come Dancing 2021 line-up was introduced, long-term fans were excited to see this year’s youngest contestant Tilly Ramsay take to the dancefloor. Partnered by Strictly’s Nikita Kuzmin, who was also new to the show this year, the popular couple entertained the Strictly Come Dancing 2021 judges week after week. But sadly, after another brilliant performance in Week 10, it was Tilly and Nikita who were the ones who left Strictly Come Dancing after landing in the dreaded dance off for the third time.  

Taking to the ballroom, Strictly’s Nikita and Tilly gave it their all in their final dance on the show. And whilst their first performance was already enough to get you in the party mood, the couple’s second go at their fun Samba to Dua Lipa’s Levitating was another level.

Both threw themselves wholeheartedly into their performance, with Nikita even spontaneously removing his vibrant flowery shirt during the dance. It was then that eagle-eyed viewers caught a glimpse of a very significant detail as Nikita Kuzmin appeared to be wearing a white disc-shaped patch. 

Though the dancer hasn’t officially confirmed it, this is believed to be a glucose monitor known as a Libre Sensor. These are used to help those with Type 1 Diabetes monitor their glucose levels at all times, helping to give people peace of mind.

And it’s a detail that’s not gone unnoticed by fans, with many quick to express appreciation for the professional dancer “representing” the diabetic community, especially during Diabetes Awareness Month 2021. One viewer took to Twitter to describe Strictly’s Nikita as a “role model” as they reflected on how “proudly” he displayed his device. 

“Spoiler alert Sorry to see @bbcstrictly’s Tilly go. But what an amazing role model Nikita has been for the #diabetes community not letting having #t1d get in the way of achieving his dreams and displaying diatech proudly throughout #DiabetesAwarenessMonth”, they powerfully declared. 

Whilst another revealed that their child had been inspired by his performance, writing, “Has Nikita got diabetes?” Was the question my daughter asked on Saturday ⁦@bbcstrictly⁩ what a wonderful role model for so many young people. A fantastic addition to the show and a very talented dancer!”

“[S]eeing nikita have his libre on show is such a boost for the diabetic community and it made my mum feel so proud tonight to see the representation on tv. whether you know what was on nikita’s arm or not, its a win for people with diabetes having some representation tonight <3”, another person shared, echoing these sentiments. 

A fourth fan was even brought to tears by Strictly’s Nikita and Tilly’s exit from the show as they revealed watching the professional dancer proudly show his diabetes monitor has made them love him “even more”. 

They explained, “First time I’ve cried when someone’s left #strictly. Tilly and Nikita have been delightful to watch and seeing Nikita show off his diabetes libre sensor has just made me love him even more. #scd #type1d”. 

Whilst Strictly’s Nikita Kuzmin might not have directly addressed this poignant response to his final dance, they’ll be many who continue to be inspired by the professional dancer. And though he and Tilly might not have made it to the upcoming Strictly Come Dancing 2021 final, they’ve certainly given us plenty of unforgettable moments this year!