I'd Do Anything - Niamh's time to leave

The pressure is really building now as tonight five Nancys became four. It already seems really odd to see so few of them performing the opening number. The comments of the panel and the Lord are clearly upsetting quite a few of the girls – unsurprisingly. Jodie was in tears following Andrew’s comment that her dancing was like Meatloaf and Niamh retorted to Barry that it was actually going to be rather difficult for her to grow in stature. The panel, and Andrew in particular, seem to be much harsher with their comments than on previous shows – and the criticism is not always constructive.

The eight remaining Olivers sang “I Dreamed a Dream” tonight and it was a vast improvement on their S Club 7 offering from last night’s show. There are several who really stand out as being Oliver to me – Laurence, Alex, Jonny and Chester – whilst Harry still looks more like a Dodger! Next week the final three Olivers will be announced – no doubt so that each one can then perform with the three final Nancys the following week.

The girls’ mission tonight was stand-up comedy under the supervision of Phil Jupitus. With the exception of Jodie and Rachel, I found myself cringing at their attempts at telling jokes – but I will concede this is probably the hardest role in show business. Luckily Nancy doesn’t have too many pure comedy moments!

The group song tonight was “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out Of My Hair” from South Pacific and here Jodie, Jessie and Sam were singled out by the panel as having leading lady quality.

When it came to the results, Sam, Jodie and Jessie were all declared safe, leaving Rachel and Niamh to sing “Another Suitcase in Another Hall” – a beautiful song to which both did real justice in my opinion. Andrew chose to save Rachel, telling Niamh that she wasn’t quite ready for a full-blown West End leading lady role but could easily see her taking on something big in a couple of years. That being the case, I do wonder why he puts the young ones through to the finals if that is his attitude?

However, next week is the semi-final – four Nancys fighting for three places in the final. Who will they be? You can continue to discuss the show in the meantime at I'd Do Anything forum