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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Entertainment
Jessica Murray

‘So proud’: praise for Strictly winners as show regains family TV crown

Chris McCausland holding up his arms and cheering as Dianne Buswell lifts the trophy, with the pair surrounded by other dancers
The Liverpudlian comedian Chris McCausland, who danced with Dianne Buswell, was the show’s first blind contestant. Photograph: Guy Levy/PA

It has been a difficult year for Strictly Come Dancing. Just six months ago, questions were mounting about whether the show should be axed after a string of allegations of bullying during rehearsals, and there were fears controversy would hang over its 22nd season when it launched in September.

But as Chris McCausland lifted the glitterball trophy in Saturday night’s final, those fears appeared unfounded. Strong viewing figures and a overwhelmingly positive reaction to this year’s lineup suggest the show has regained its place at the heart of Saturday night family entertainment.

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