Strictly Come Dancing 2024 Line-Up: Here’s The Full Cast Of This Year’s Series

Posted on 14/09/2024 by Boris Clair

Strictly Come Dancing hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly

The leaves are starting to brown, the dark nights are drawing in and there’s an unmistakeable nip in the air.

Bit depressing, really, isn’t it?

Well, don’t fret, because the arrival of autumn also means the return of Strictly Come Dancing, the new series of which kicks off on Saturday night with the annual pre-recorded launch show.

It’s looking like a big year for Strictly, not just because it’s the first series back since the headline-grabbing BBC investigation the show’s been under for the past few months, but also because it’s celebrating 20 years since the very first episode aired.

So yeah, safe to say there’s a lot going on.

The 15 stars getting their dance shoes on this time around were confirmed last month, but just in case you need a quick refresher, here’s our guide to the Strictly 2024 cast…

Chris McCausland

Comedian Chris McCausland is set to make history as the first blind contestant to ever compete on Strictly Come Dancing.

After becoming the first of this year’s celebrities to be unveiled, he joked: “I don’t dance, I haven’t danced, I can’t dance, I can’t see the dancing I will have to do. What can possibly go wrong?”

JB Gill

Chart-topping singer JB Gill first rose to fame on The X Factor, as part of the boyband JLS. After finishing in second place, the group went on to score a string of hits, including five UK number ones, and two Brit Award wins.

JB is no stranger to the dance floor, having won Strictly’s Christmas special back in 2012. He also competed in ITV’s short-lived Strictly rival Dance Dance Dance back in 2017, finishing in third place alongside his wife Chloe.

“I danced in the Strictly Christmas special over a decade ago and loved it, so when I got the call to join Strictly this year, it was an immediate yes from me,” he revealed.

“I’m raring to go to and looking forward to showing off some new skills to the JLS boys. From muddy wellies on the fields of my farm to sequins and Glitterballs – I’m here to embrace it all!”

Wynne Evans

When Welsh performer Wynne Evans was revealed as the third celebrity on the Strictly Come Dancing line-up, he was referred to as a “broadcaster, presenter, and professionally trained opera singer”.

All of that is true, of course, but they failed to mention what we best know him for – portraying the operatic Gio Compario in the car insurance site Go Compare’s long-running ad campaigns.

He said he’d be representing “every portly, middle-aged father out there” on the Strictly dance floor, adding: “Me, taking part in Strictly Come Dancing?! I’m not entirely sure how I’ll get along, if all else fails I’ll just have to learn the art of distraction.

“What I do know is I will give it my all and aim to make Wales proud. I’m definitely going to try and combine my love of Opera into one of my routines.”

Toyah Wilcox

British music legend Toyah Wilcox is known for hits including It’s A Mystery, Thunder In The Mountains and I Want To Be Free.

She explained: “This is going to be a wild and wonderful ride, and I’m here for every sparkly second.”

“I’m used to performing for big crowds but this is completely fresh for me. How I will do? It’s a mystery,” Toyah joked, adding: “I just want to get cracking and learn some dance routines now!”

Dr Punam Krishan

GP-turned-TV-personality Punam Krishan will be a familiar face to viewers of the BBC’s Morning Live, where she’s the daytime show’s resident medical expert. She’s also the author of books including How To Be A Doctor And Other Life-Saving Jobs and the upcoming The Superhero’s First Aid Manual.

Punam admitted her forthcoming Strictly stint “still doesn’t feel real”, revealing: “I am overjoyed to be a contestant on this year’s show. I have watched Strictly every year with my family and it feels extra special that it’s the 20th year, I can’t believe I will be the one getting Strictly-fied now.

“This is so out of my comfort zone, but I’m up for the journey and will give it my absolute all.”

Tasha Ghouri

To most of us, Tasha Ghouri is best remembered for her stint on Love Island in 2021, making it all the way to the final alongside her boyfriend Andrew Le Page.

Before entering the Love Island villa, Tasha was already a trained dancer, appearing in one of MNEK’s music videos as part of a dance troupe made up entirely of performers who were deaf or hard of hearing. She also briefly dated departing Strictly professional Giovanni Pernice.

She said she hoped to “represent and make everyone proud” in the Strictly ballroom, sharing: “I’ve been watching the show since I was little – it’s a firm Ghouri family favourite – so this is a total dream come true.”

Pete Wicks

Reality star Pete Wicks first made a name for himself when he joined the cast of The Only Way Is Essex, remaining with the docusoap for seven years.

His other reality show appearances have included Celebs Go Dating, where he struck up a friendship with fellow media personality Sam Thompson, as well as Celebrity MasterChef, The Celebrity Island, Celebrity Island With Bear Grylls and two seasons of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, after having to pull out of his first run due to an injury.

“Dancing live in front of the nation every Saturday? Absolutely terrifying,” he confessed. “But anyone who knows me knows I love a challenge and trying new things, so I’m genuinely looking forward to getting stuck in.”

Tom Dean

After his success at the Paris Olympics, the swimmer let slip that he had signed up for the new series of Strictly.

The gold medallist’s name also appeared on a leaked line-up published by The Sun ― after which Tom’s Strictly signing was finally confirmed on Matt Richardson and Mollie King’s Radio 1 show, to less-than-shocked fans.

He previously claimed: “I thought it would be really exciting to try something a bit different. I’ll be doing that and straight back into training after it. It’s something to look forward to.

“I’ve not seen [fellow Olympic swimmer and Strictly alum Adam Peaty] yet. He did brilliantly on it so I’ll be getting a few tips from him, for sure.”

In the more formal (read: not accidental) announcement, Tom said, “I am taking part in Strictly Come Dancing 2024!”

He added: “You may have heard me accidentally say it poolside first… but now I can officially talk about how excited I am to get stuck into something new, meet some brilliant people and get dancing. Bring it on!”

Shayne Ward

Former X Factor winner and actor Shayne Ward has appeared on Coronation Street as Aidan Connor, and is currently the lead in Channel 5′s The Good Ship Murder.

Announcing his upcoming Strictly appearance on Lorraine, the That’s My Goal singer said: “I’m buzzing to see all of the sparkles and magic that is Strictly in real life.”

He added: “I’m no stranger to live TV, but dancing Latin and Ballroom in front of millions is a whole new level.”

“No promises on my dancing ability, but I will give it my best shot!”

Sarah Hadland

You probably know her best as Stevie in the hilarious sitcom Miranda (although if you loved CBBC’s Horrible Histories show as much as we did, you might recognise the actor from her long-running role in that, too).

She’s also appeared in The Job Lot, Quantum of Solace, and multiple plays.

Sarah told the world about entering Strictly in the same Lorraine interview as Shayne.

“I cannot believe I am part of Strictly,” the star gushed. “I feel particularly excited to be part of such an iconic show in its 20th year. I’m so ready for the glitz, glam and glitter and hopefully I can make everyone watching at home proud!”

Jamie Borthwick

The actor, who plays Jay Brown on EastEnders, has already won the 2023 Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special ― so hopes are pretty high for his upcoming appearance on the show.

Like Tom Dean’s announcement, the news was revealed on Matt and Mollie’s Show on BBC Radio 1.

The soap legend said: “I had a ball doing the Strictly Christmas special last year, so when I was asked to join for this series it was the easiest yes!”

He added: “This is a fresh challenge and it will be so different to be learning a new dance every week and for the public to have their say.”

“I’m hoping to be Salsa-ing around Albert Square in no time and I’ll be asking my Walford Strictly alumni for some words of wisdom. See you on the dance floor!”

Montell Douglas

If the name Montell Douglas doesn’t ring a bell, perhaps her Gladiators alter-ego Fire will.

As well as appearing in the hit BBC challenge show, Montell is also a celebrated athlete competing in the summer and winter Olympics in the sprinting and bobsled events, respectively.

She said: “Fire is here to light up the Ballroom. Wow I am so honoured to have been asked to do the show. It is such an amazing thing to be a part of and I can’t wait to get started.

“Hopefully a few of my Gladiator moves will come in handy with the Tango or Paso Doble!”

Nick Knowles

Best known for his work on home improvement shows like DIY SOS, Nick Knowles is no stranger to reality TV, having previously participated in I’m A Celebrity back in 2018.

“I’m so, so excited to be doing Strictly this year,” he enthused. “People may be more used to me getting stuck in on a building site or travelling the world, but dancing live on TV will be a whole new adventure.

“I’ve spent my whole life learning new skills and I’ve never been afraid of a challenge – there’s life in the old dog yet to take on one more big one – being taught how to dance! I’ll give it my everything… and try not to embarrass my kids of course!”

Sam Quek

Retired hockey player turned sports pundit Sam Quek is bringing some more Olympic gold to the 2024 Strictly line-up.

“As a former hockey player I’m used to playing as part of a team, but the thought of dancing on the Ballroom floor in front of a live audience is quite daunting!” she admits.

“I’m chuffed to be a part of this legendary show and Quickstep into the shoes of a performer, it feels absolutely surreal but I’m ready for every bit of the adventure.”

Paul Merson

Completing the line-up this year is Paul Merson, the former footballer who most of us know now for his commentary on the sport.

While joining Strictly is apparently “a whole new ball game for me” (get it? ’Cause football!), he says he’s “going to tackle this challenge” (get it? ’Cause football!) head on (GET IT? ’CAUSE FOOTBALL! A pun hat-trick, you might say…).

He added: “I’m ready to swap the pitch for the Ballroom floor, so here’s hoping my two left feet can learn some moves and you never know, maybe I’ll be taking home the Glitterball Trophy!””

Strictly Come Dancing returns on Saturday 14 September on BBC One.

‘Ridiculous’: Craig Revel Horwood Addresses Rumours About Strictly’s Future Amid Ongoing Drama

Posted on 19/08/2024 by Boris Clair

Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has dismissed calls for the show to be cancelled following a number of recent controversies.

Craig is currently gearing up for this year’s series of Strictly, which will be his 22nd as part of the judging panel.

In the last few months, the long-running BBC dance show has been dominating the headlines thanks to an internal investigation sparked by complaints made by a number of former contestants.

During a new interview with The Times, Craig was asked about the fact that “some have called for it to be cancelled”, a suggestion he branded “ridiculous”.

“It’s a wonderful show that’s in 61 countries,” he insisted, before noting that he “like everyone else” is eager to “know the results of the investigation”.

Craig went on to say he was “shocked” to read reports about certain allegations behind the scenes of Strictly, explaining: “At every rehearsal there is lighting and sound, a crew member, as well as the pro, celeb and a choreographer, so there’s a lot of people in those rooms. And they have windows too.”

“That’s why I can’t wait for the investigation because it could be all blown out of proportion or it could be… anything,” he added. “But we want the results sooner rather than later.”

The Strictly Come Dancing judging panel as of 2021

Elsewhere in the interview, Craig said he welcomes new measures being introduced to the show aiming to protect both its celebrity contestants and their professional partners.

“All I can say is that, first, chaperones are a good idea. Second, thank goodness things have changed,” he said, referring to the harshness that has long existed in the world of dance.

Craig claimed last month that he was following the drama “like everybody else, through the press”, and was “just finding out” about the accusations.

“For us, it’s complete news. Every day that I read about something I think, ‘That can’t be right’, so I’ll wait and see what happens with the investigations, but certainly we have nothing to do with that,” he said.

Strictly will return to our screens next month, with the 15 contestants being unveiled earlier in the month.

The BBC previously detailed the new changes being implemented this time around, which are intended to “strengthen welfare and support” for all on-screen talent.

Director general Tim Davie has also publicly apologised to any former Strictly stars who had an experience on the show that was not “wholly positive”.

Strictly Come Dancing Star Shirley Ballas Doubles Down On Comments About Giovanni Pernice Drama

Posted on 01/07/2024 by Boris Clair

Shirley Ballas has reiterated her support for former Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice.

Last month, the Strictly judge weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the show, after the BBC began investigating complaints made by three of Giovanni’s former celebrity dance partners (including actor Amanda Abbington) about his conduct behind the scenes of the show.

The Italian dancer – who will not be returning to Strictly in 2024 – has refuted the claims that have been made about him, and vowed to “clear his name” in the investigation.

Over the weekend, Shirley and Giovanni took part in a dance workshop together, where the Daily Mail reported that she told those in attendance: “I’ve known him for 10 years and we’re good friends.”

She reportedly added: “I will be one person who will be by his side forever. What you see is what you get with him.”

Giovanni at a Strictly Come Dancing launch event in 2018

Two weeks ago, Shirley was quoted by The Mirror as saying: “I don’t condone bullying on any path, but also I don’t believe gossip and what you read in the newspapers, because things get escalated and they are blown way out of all proportion and it can turn into a great big snowball.

“My feeling for Giovanni is, let them do this investigation, or whatever it is they are doing, and the truth will come out. So we don’t judge anybody until I know absolutely 100 percent. I won’t pass on the gossip unless I know 100 percent it is true.”

Insisting she’s “never ever ever experienced any ill will or bad feeling or bad sportsmanship or rudeness” from Giovanni, Shirley apparently added: “I can only talk from my own perspective. He has always been to me – and I will make that clear, to me – a perfect gentleman.”

Giovanni told fans last month: “I am co-operating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth.

“As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.

“I am so happy to be back on tour. Thank you all for your continued support – [your] messages and love mean so very much to me. I will hopefully see many of you very soon and I look forward to clearing my name.”

Meanwhile, the BBC has issued a rare statement amid the investigation, although they did not explicitly name any individual or show.

“It is a longstanding position that the BBC does not comment on specific matters related to individuals,” a spokesperson said. “Nor ordinarily, would we comment on whether we are reviewing any individual complaints.

“Recently, we have seen a number of media reports about a high profile show. We would urge people not to indulge in speculation. Anyone involved in a complaint has a right to confidentiality and fair process.

“If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken.”

“This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint – that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about,” the statement added.

“Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned.”

Strictly Come Dancing Bosses Confirm Giovanni Pernice Will Not Be Back For New Series

Posted on 10/06/2024 by Boris Clair

Strictly Come Dancing bosses have confirmed that Giovanni Pernice will not be returning to the show for this year’s landmark 20th series.

Giovanni’s future on the show has been in doubt for a number of weeks now, with the BBC currently investigating complaints made about him by a number of his former celebrity partners.

Prior to this, it was reported by The Sun that the Italian dancer had made the decision to bow out after 10 series, citing an undisclosed “source”, who claimed the former champion had chosen to leave Strictly as a result of the “scrutiny” he had found himself under.

On Monday afternoon, the BBC confirmed the line-up of this year’s Strictly professionals, with Giovanni’s name absent from the list.

Giovanni previously told his Instagram followers: “You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week. Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.

“Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me. I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win – for me and my dance partners.”

Meanwhile, the BBC has also issued a rare statement alluding to the matter, which said: “It is a longstanding position that the BBC does not comment on specific matters related to individuals,” a BBC representative said. “Nor ordinarily, would we comment on whether we are reviewing any individual complaints.

“If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken.”

The statement – which did not mention Giovanni, any of his former partners or Strictly Come Dancing directly – continued: “This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint – that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about.

The cast of the Strictly professionals tour in 2022

The rest of last year’s Strictly dancers will all be back for the upcoming season, including reigning champion Vito Coppola and runner-up Nikita Kuzmin, whose future on the show was also previously in doubt following his appearance on Celebrity Big Brother back in March.

Also returning to the show will be Amy Dowden, who missed much of the 2023 run while she underwent cancer treatment.

Strictly Come Dancing Announces Exciting Plans As Show Celebrates Its 20th Birthday

Posted on 15/05/2024 by Boris Clair

Strictly Come Dancing has announced it will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in style.

Wednesday marks 20 years since the first episode of Strictly began airing on the BBC, back when Tess Daly was co-hosting with the late, great Sir Bruce Forsyth and the judging panel was made up of Craig Revel Horwood, Dame Arlene Phillips, Bruno Tonioli and Len Goodman, who died in April 2023.

To coincide with Strictly’s big birthday, the BBC has announced a one-off special will be airing later in the year celebrating the show’s impact in the last two decades.

Fresh from Strictly’s win at the TV Baftas over the weekend, a BBC press release has teased that the “unmissable one-off programme” promises “a journey through 20 years of unforgettable entertainment featuring iconic performances and plenty of heart-warming interviews with past celebrity stars, professional dancers, and judges”.

This nostalgic special hopes to “showcase why Strictly Come Dancing has captured the hearts of the nation for the past 20 years”, and helped it become one of the broadcaster’s “best known and well-loved programmes”.

Kalpna Patel-Knight, the BBC’s Head of Entertainment, enthused: “Strictly Come Dancing is more than just a TV show, it has become an integral part of British culture, bringing families together and inspiring viewers of all ages to embrace the joy of dance.

“Throughout its 20-year history, the show has launched careers, sparked trends, and touched the hearts of millions with its dazzling performances, emotional journeys, and unforgettable moments and we will be showcasing it all in this very special programme.”

Meanwhile, as well as this one-off special, Strictly will be returning for its 22nd series later in the year, with actor Nicola Peltz Beckham, boxer Tommy Fury and all-round national treasure Hannah Waddingham among those tipped to be taking part.

Last year’s series was won by Coronation Street actor Ellie Leach and her partner Vito Coppola, beating Layton Williams and fellow soap star Bobby Brazier in the live final.

Strictly Come Dancing Viewers Overjoyed To See Amy Dowden Back In The Ballroom

Posted on 16/12/2023 by Boris Clair

Amy has been unable to compete in the current series of Strictly as she was undergoing treatment for cancer, but has made repeated appearances in the studio.

In the lead-up to the finale, the Welsh star revealed she’d intended to perform a surprise routine on the show, but these plans were scuppered when she broke her foot.

However, she did appear in Saturday’s opening group number, dancing with her fellow professionals to welcome this year’s finalists and serving up some fabulous fan-ography.

Strictly viewers were delighted with Amy’s surprise appearance, with many writing they’d been moved to tears seeing her back where she belongs…

Amy first joined Strictly’s team of professional dancers in 2017.

“An afternoon of chemo and then I’m so lucky and grateful to be able to ring that bell!” she wrote on Instagram. “[I] will never take it for granted! Thank you to the incredible Sheldon Unit! You are all amazing.”

Strictly Come Dancing: 11 Contestants Who Were Forced To Hang Up Their Dance Shoes Early

Posted on 25/10/2023 by Boris Clair

Amanda Abbington has pulled out of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing after five weeks, due to “personal reasons”.

The former Sherlock actor expressed her “deepest regret” at having to leave the show, admitting it was not a decision she came to “easily or lightly” in a statement she posted on social media.

However, Amanda is far from the first Strictly contestant to leave the show early. Rare as it might be, there are actually 10 more stars who’ve had to hang up their dancing shoes over the years…

Nicola Adams

In 2020, Nicola Adams made history as one half of Strictly’s first ever same-sex partnership.

Unfortunately, her time on the show also fell in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, and after just a few short weeks in the competition, her partner Katya Jones contracted Covid-19, meaning they both had to step down.

Fortunately, they were later given one last moment to shine, performing a brand new routine in that year’s Strictly final.

John Sergeant

John Sergeant’s hilarious routines became a thing of Strictly legend when he competed on the 2008 series alongside partner Kristina Rihanoff.

But while he might not have been blessed in the dance department, the British public kept saving him from elimination week after week – much to the despair of the judges.

Arlene Phillips even said that if he walked away with the Glitterball, it would leave her feeling “desolate”.

When he made it through to week 10 of the competition, the BBC News journalist took matters into his own hands and withdrew, fearing that he may actually win the whole series, which he claimed would have been “a joke too far”.

John called his Strictly experience “a wonderfully enjoyable thing”, but added: “If the joke wears thin, if in fact people begin to take it very seriously, and if people really are getting so wound up that it’s very difficult to carry off the joke, then I think it is time to go.

“It’s like when you decide when you leave a party, and the time to leave a party is before the fight starts, and I think that’s really what’s happened on this occasion.”

He also returned to the ballroom for a farewell dance that week.

Kelly Brook

Kelly Brook had been an early favourite on the 2007 series, but she cut short her Strictly experience when her father died eight weeks into the competition, following a long battle with cancer.

She had originally intended to continue rehearsals in her dad’s memory, but found it “too difficult”, and ended up pulling out ahead of the competition.

A spokesperson said at the time: “Kelly has been a fantastic part of the programme and will be sorely missed by everyone on the show.”

Will Young

Original Pop Idol winner Will Young withdrew three weeks into the competition in 2016.

At the time, he cited “personal reasons” for leaving abruptly, later disclosing that his mental health was suffering while taking part in Strictly.

“I was really ill. I was dragging myself to rehearsals. I just couldn’t do it any more,” Will told Bryony Gordon’s Mad World podcast. “It was so bad I thought – I’m not joking – I thought about breaking my leg.

“I decided to take on Strictly because I bloody love dancing. And I bloody hated it [in the end], because I was so ill.”

Jimmy Tarbuck

Comic Jimmy Tarbuck was forced to drop out of the fourth series of Strictly in 2006 on doctor’s orders.

Having made it through to the second week of the competition with partner Flavia Cacace, he was “devastated” when ill health meant he had to hang up his dance shoes.

He said at the time: “I would like to thank my wonderful partner Flavia who has taught me so much and been patient in trying to turn this old cart-horse into a proper dancer. I will really miss training with her.”

Jade Johnson

Former Olympic long jumper Jade Johnson’s time on the show was cut short after she suffered an injury to her knee when it “popped” during training.

The athlete was left in tears when she was forced to sit out week nine of the competition, and told host Tess Daly: “It’s very emotional. Just sitting here is really hard for me. The knee is quite sore.”

After being given a bye allowing her through to the following week, Jade had still hoped to dance, but was forced to withdraw completely when BBC doctors advised her not to risk further injury.

Jade was later quoted as saying that Strictly had damaged her chances at the London 2012 Olympics.

“Strictly has cost me my place in the Olympics. I thought the show injury had healed and I was ready to compete,” she said. “Sadly it flared up just before the trials and made it impossible to get through them.”

Jamie Laing

Jamie Laing’s Strictly dream looked to be over before it had really even begun, after the Made In Chlesea star was forced to withdraw from the competition due to injury in 2019.

He pulled out after hurting his foot while filming a group number for the pre-recorded launch show.

Kelvin Fletcher was later brought in in his place, teaming up with Jamie’s dance partner Oti Mabuse, with the couple eventually going on to win the series.

However, there was a happy ending for Jamie eventually, as he was invited to return for the 2020 series, where he was paired up with Karen Hauer and made it all the way to the final.

Will Bayley

Just six weeks into the 2019 series, disaster struck again when Paralympian Will Bayley acquired a knee injury while rehearsing for the show.

He was initially given a one-week bye in the hope he would recover and be able to return to the competition the following week.

However, when his knee failed to get better in time, Will was forced to withdraw.

Will said he was “gutted” at having to bow out early, explaining: “I’ve loved being part of the show and am so grateful for the phenomenal support we have received.

“I want to say a special thank you to Janette [Manrara, his professional partner], for believing in me, and giving me the confidence to believe in myself. The things we achieved, from our Couple’s Choice dance, through to our lifts in our Salsa, will stay with me forever. I’ve had the time of my life.”

He later returned to the ballroom during the final as part of a group routine.

AJ Odudu

AJ was devastatingly forced to pull out of the 2021 series just days before the final after suffering an injury to her foot.

The TV presenter said she was “deeply upset” to have to withdraw from the final, where she was due to battle it out for the Glitterball with Rose Ayling-Ellis and John Whaite, but was unable to dance due to a torn ligament in her right ankle.

AJ and her partner Kai Widdrington did make an appearance at the final, however, where they joined host Claudia Winkleman for an emotional chat reflecting on their time in the competition.

Robert Webb

Robert Webb’s Strictly journey was also cut short earlier in the 2021 series after the Peep Show actor was advised to leave the competition for medical reasons.

In a statement, Robert – who had been paired with professional dancer Dianne Buswell – explained: “Two years ago I had open heart surgery and although I believed I was fit enough to take on Strictly and its demanding schedule, it became clear that I had bitten off more than I could chew for this stage in my recovery.

“I had begun to feel symptoms that led me to seek an urgent consultation with my heart specialist, and it was her view that it would be better for the sake of my health to step back from the show.”

Robert later declined the invitation to return for the series finale, but insisted he had “no bad feeling towards the show”.

Gorka Márquez Is A Genuine Dead Ringer For Ryan Gosling As Strictly Teases Epic Barbie Routine

Posted on 05/10/2023 by Boris Clair

Well, the moment is finally upon us. And we’re happy to report that it looks like our prayers have been answered.

On Thursday morning, the official Strictly Instagram page shared a teaser clip of the show’s resident Kens lip syncing to Ryan Gosling’s big solo number from the hit movie.

And no, that’s not Ryan himself they’ve drafted in for the occasion, but long-serving professional Gorka Márquez, who is more than “Kenough” in his fur coat, headband and, of course, custom Ken pants.

Fingers crossed that this means we’ll get to see Nadiya Bychkova taking the lead as Disco Barbie in a Dance The Night performance this weekend…

In addition to a return trip to Barbieland, Strictly’s Movie Week promises to be as weird and wonderful as ever.

Meanwhile, the rest of the cast will be performing routines inspired by films as varied as Grease, Bridget Jones’s Diary, Batman, Men In Back and… The Super Mario Bros Movie. Check out the full list here.

Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday night at 6.30pm on BBC One.

Strictly Pro Neil Jones Reveals How He Really Feels About Not Having A Partner On Past Seasons

Posted on 12/09/2023 by Boris Clair

Strictly Come Dancing professional Neil Jones has insisted he has no issues with not having a celebrity partner in previous seasons of the show.

The British dancer joined Strictly in 2016 alongside his then-wife Katya Jones, but while she has been part of some of the show’s most memorable pairings ever in her seven-year tenure, Neil has notably only ever competed on the main show on a handful of occasions.

Speaking to Radio Times ahead of this year’s Strictly launch, Neil insisted he had no problem with his experience.

“I think this is going to be my eighth series, and I’ve had two partners on the main show,” Neil explained.

“I would honestly say to you, I love when I have a partner, and I love when I don’t have a partner.”

Defending his role within the Strictly team, he added: “When you don’t have a partner, a lot of people think you just sit at home. But you really don’t.

“On Strictly, they make sure you’ve got plenty to do. We’re doing group numbers and music acts, we help out other pros.”

Neil received a Strictly partner for the first time in 2019, when he was paired up with former Lioness Alex Scott.

He and Alex eventually made it to the quarter-finals, and two years later he received his second partner in actor Nina Wadia, although they were eliminated first in their series.

Throughout his time on Strictly, Neil has also danced with stars including Rosie Ramsey, Mel Giedroyc, Konnie Huq and Judy Murray on various Christmas and charity specials.

It’s yet to be revealed whether Neil will receive a partner on the upcoming series of Strictly. This year’s pairings will be unveiled during the pre-recorded launch show which airs on Saturday at 6.35pm on BBC One.

An Unexpected Strictly Star Stole The Show As The Cast Showed Off Their Moves For The First Time

Posted on 01/09/2023 by Boris Clair

With the summer nearly over (although if we’re being honest, did it ever actually ever start?), we’re now fully open to embracing whatever autumn has to throw at us.

And by that, we mostly mean pumpkin spice lattes and the return of Strictly Come Dancing.

The countdown to the new series is now officially on, and to mark the occasion, the BBC has shared a first-look video at this year’s cast in action.

In a social media post, the stars of Strictly 2023 were all invited to show off their signature dance moves, with Krishnan Guru-Murthy offering up a rather subdued shuffle and Zara McDermott showing off her best “inflatable mascot outside a car dealership” moves.

And while others tried out flossing, twerking and the caterpillar, we have to hand it to Angela Rippon, whose moves were probably the closest thing to what the Strictly judges are looking for.

“To go with my age, the Charleston!” the former Come Dancing host announced, before demonstrating a rather impressive swivel.

Angela Rippon showing off her Charleston technique

While the BBC has yet to confirm when Strictly will be back on our screens, fans reckon they’ve worked out that the pre-recorded launch will air on Saturday 16 September, followed by the first live show on Saturday 23 September.

The 15 stars taking part have now been confirmed, with the judging and presenting line-up remaining the same.

Almost all of last year’s Strictly professionals will also be returning to the show, with two notable exceptions.

Cameron Lombard revealed earlier this year that he was stepping down from Strictly, while Amy Dowden is unable to compete as she is currently undergoing treatment for cancer.

However, Amy has insisted she will still be part of Strictly “in some way”, previously telling The Mirror: “Whether it’s on It Takes Two, or being up in Claudia’s area waiting for the scores, I’ll be there.”

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