Strictly Come Dancing launch date confirmed by BBC as show returns for 20th series

Strictly will kick off in early September, the 20th series featuring a spectacular group routine with 20 pro dancers to mark the BBC ’s 100th anniversary.

Tess Daly, 53, and Claudia Winkleman, 50, will return to host the Launch Show, which will be recorded on September 7.

But on August 24 lucky fans who win tickets to the recording will see the pro dancers performing the group number with “special guests” to mark the BBC’s centenary year.

In a post explaining how to enter the draw, the Strictly team said: “ Strictly Come Dancing is celebrating 100 years of the BBC! The professional dancers will be throwing a party like only they know how, with a group number full of all the usual sparkle and glamour.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will host the show (Ray Burmiston)

Claudia has hosted Strictly since 2010 after initially stepping in as substitute for Bruce Forsyth (Guy Levy)

“There may well be a surprise or two as well, with special guests and fun tributes to some of your favourite BBC shows.”

With the recording of the Launch Show scheduled for September 7, fans are likely to know which celebrity is paired with which pro around the weekend of September 10. In another post telling fans how to get hold of tickets for the recording of the Launch Show, the BBC said: “Dust off your dancing shoes, Strictly Come Dancing is back!

Strictly Come Dancing will be back with its 20th series (PA)

“The stunning 20th series returns, bringing glamour and show-stopping dancing back to Saturday nights on BBC One – and we’re extremely excited to be able to welcome an audience back to the studio for this year’s shows.

“Hosted by the very talented and glamorous Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the show will once again come live from Elstree Film and Television Studios.

“Registration is now open to be part of the exciting Launch Show, which is recording in advance of this year’s live shows on Wednesday, September 7.”

In May, the BBC confirmed Craig Revel Horwood, 57, Motsi Mabuse, 41, and Shirley Ballas, 61, will return to the judging panel alongside Anton Du Beke, 56, following his successful stint stepping in for Bruno Tonioli, 66, in 2021.

Anton, a former pro dancer on the show, said at the time: “This is brilliant news. I’m utterly delighted to be continuing as a regular judge.”

Shirley said: “Being a judge on Strictly is such a joy and honour for me and I can’t wait to be back at the studio waving my paddle.

“Every year the wonderful production team surpass themselves.”

Last month, the BBC confirmed Strictly will feature 20 pro dancers to mark the 20th series, the biggest pro dancer line-up in the show’s history.