The Holby City star has become the favourite to win the BBC series, but when he jokily insisted that Gemma, 33, and Aljaž Škorjanec be removed from the running, it seemed to suggest deeper worries. 

Speaking to Express.co.uk and other media, Joe failed to hide his rivalry when discussing the potential winner of the BBC series.

When Aljaž, 27, was reminded of his success in winning the coveted trophy once before alongside contestant Abbey Clancy in 2013, Joe, 42, couldn’t resist making his views known. 

“So he can’t!” he blurted out firmly with a laugh. 

The actor went on to admit that he feels like he’s “already won” however, and thanks his lucky stars for simply having the opportunity to take part.

“Just being chosen to do the show, I was completely over the moon and felt like a winner,” he admitted. “Like the guys said, we already feel like winners because we’re here, we got to do every stage, we’re on the best show on television and it feels like we’ve already won.”

Joe assured that he’s still rooting for his sensational dance coach, hopeful that her impressive choreography will be recognised.

He continued: “Of course it would be nice if Katya [Jones] won because I think she is amazing, [but] no one deserves it any more than anyone else I don’t think, and ultimately it’s up to the public whatever they think. 

“It’s for them and we’re doing it for them, so it’s whatever they think.”

Finishing with an innocent jibe back at her competitor, former Emmerdale actress Gemma added: “But vote Gemma and Aljaz, yeah?”

Strictly Come Dancing the final airs tonight at 6.30pm on BBC One.