Fans wasted no time in flocking to social media and sharing their joy at Strictly Come Dancing being back on screens. In a change, the hit BBC One show returned on Friday night (September 23) with its pre-recorded launch show.
The 20th series of the popular dance contest was due to return last Saturday night but the BBC took the decision to postpone following the death of the Queen until after her state funeral which took place on Monday.
And things got off to a beautiful start when the show opened with a stunning ballroom performance from the fabulous professional dancers to the Nina Simon track, Feeling Good. Following a racuas applause it was time for Claudia Winkelman and Tess Daly to return to the ballroom.
Claudia welcomed back the audience to the show, saying: "It is so lovely to be back and for the first time in two years we have a full studio audience…" They then welcomed judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas all back onto the panel.
Former professional-turned-judge Anton said the new crop of contestants were “terrified” backstage, but added: "They’re going to be fine, nervous but fine." Head judge Shirley said she was expecting a “slow build-up” but told the contestants to "enjoy every single moment" of the journey.
And social media was alight with comments from viewers sharing their joy at the show's return. @emsemsr shared: "Strictly is back and I couldn’t be any happier! #Strictly." @bookloverJo tweeted: "Tears were shed at this beautiful opening, welcome back #Strictly." @sandypand said: "#Strictly is back and everything is right with the world again."
But there were also plenty making the same comment about what Strictly's return really means. @jonwatt876 tweeted: "The countdown to Christmas begins NOW!!! #Strictly." @AaronLR1991 said: "And the countdown to Christmas begins! #Strictly." @hollyy_17 wrote: "@bbcstrictly… oh how I’ve missed you. My Christmas countdown has officially BEGUN #Strictly."
@joshualawlor penned: "Strictly is on - Merry Christmas everyone #Strictly." @Geordie_Obroni typed: "Christmas is on the way because #Strictly is here." @JulieOwenMoylan shared: "Glitter balls at the ready. My Xmas run up begins. #Strictly." @Researchdogbody added: "#Strictly time - must be safe to put up the Christmas tree."
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