Thank you and a glittery goodnight
Phew, what a final. What a worthy, heart-warming winner. That concludes tonight’s livebloggery-pokery but please feel free to continue the cha-cha-chat in the comments section. And thanks for being such wonderful company all series.
Don’t go getting dance withdrawal symptoms just yet. We’ve got not one but two hoofing dates for your diaries. It’s Strictly Come Dancing: 20 Fabulous Years at 7pm next Saturday.
This is followed, of course, by the Christmas Special at 3.55pm on Christmas Day. There won’t be a full liveblog because, probably like you, I’ll be snoozing in an armchair with a paper crown on my head and Quality Street wrappers at my feet. However, we will publish an article and have an open comments thread, so our sparkly community can discuss the action live and wish each other a glittery Christmas. Please rejoin me then for festive fabulousness.
In the meantime, I’m @michaelhogan on the platform formerly known as Twitter and @michaelhogan100 on Bluesky/Threads, so please feel free to say hi and give me a follow. I post TV and film recommendations for every evening, much like those on these blogs.
Thanks again for watching along with me this year. Merry Strictmas and a Sparkly New Year. For the final time this series: keeeeeep dancing! Nighty night and stay safe.
Our Canadian correspondent writes
Iain Crofts in Montreal writes:
Chris McCausland can now rebrand himself as Chris McAwesome. All the finalists were worthy potential winners. Strictly’s 20th year ends on a very high note. Until next series, keeeep dancing.
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From my sequin-spangled email inbox
Regular reader Peter Gibbs says:
Tasha’s showdance was a proper ‘wow’. Just can’t deny it. Then the surprise brother from Oz. I hadn’t really connected with Tasha but I’m in a puddle. Chris and Dianne’s dances floored me too. Shout out to Dame Laura Kenny’s fab-u-lous threads.
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And finally from the comments section, some of your thoughts on Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell, our brand new glitterball champions. acanthe says: “I am just enjoying how much Chris has got into this. He was so cool at the start, ironic and witty and now he’s whooping with the best of them.
1991fab says: “Loving the Chris and Craig masterclass, and Craig teaching in an accessible way!”
ButterflyBlu says: “Anton saying Chris has the best musicality he’s ever seen in 20 years is laughable and so insincere. I know they want him to win but reign it in a bit, guys.”
Somersetlass says: “Veering between broad smiles and tears here. That certainly was a party. Dianne must have so much trust in Chris to include those lifts. Chris may not be the best dancer but he’s what Strictly is all about.”
YodaknowsAll says: |I don’t care that Chris went a little wrong. I think of all the extra things that he has battled and I well up. Then I smile. He has my vote.”
Storm says: “Watching the little things Dianne does to let Chris know exactly where she is – a hand, her foot one week when she stepped over him – it’s something many people wouldn’t notice or understand but she understood what he needed and provided it in spades.”
irreverentnurse says: “Chris feeling the exhaustion of it all now, emotionally and physically. Well done Chris. Thank you!”
Johnno64 adds: “Chris for Strictly win, Sports Personality of the Year, Eurovision, and the Grand bloody National.”
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On Sarah Hadland, Jockette61 says: “Wish they’d picked a different dance for Sarah. I didn’t like that American smooth first time. Too many lifts, not enough dancing. Not much different this time. She’s such a gorgeous dancer, I wanted to see her dancing more.”
JoMK73 says: “Yes, I did rewind to see how long Vito danced with his wardrobe malfunction. And yes, it was quite a long time. Poor Vito!”
Gardener_Maidhc says: “Vito is clutching the trousers for all he is worth but the natural hand-waving exuberance keeps making him forget.”
girlpanic says: “Wow, great end lift there from Sarah & Vito. She looked a little nervous during a lot of the dance though and a bit of an error in the middle which was a shame. A great showdance but not my favourite tonight.”
Poppieshen says: “Maybe it’s because I love a bit of Fosse when it comes to choreography but that Cabaret showdance didn’t do it for me/”
Pancake01 says: “Feel a bit sorry for Sarah, coming after all that. It felt a bit low-key as a consequence. At least we see Vito in PVC again.”
ABH2018 says: “Very good as cha-chas go but not my favourite dance of theirs. I wish they’d done the Charleston.” Hard agree, ABH2018.
VelvetinaB adds: “Kudos to Sarah for having the most dance variety this evening. Ballroom, Latin and a showdance containing other styles. Loved her cha cha cha and Vito’s trousers were the (very tight) icing on the cake!”
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On the high-quality, high-scoring Tasha Ghouri, ABH2018 says: “I haven’t been a huge fan of Tasha but that was FAB-U-LOUS. What terrific styling too. Love Sing Sing Sing. Well done indeed.”
bewilderedpenguin says: “Well, that is easily my favourite Tasha dance! Absolutely gorgeous armography.”
VelvetinaB says: “Aljaz in tails doing ballroom? I am in heaven! This is truly a showdance (didn’t need the lifts at the end). She won’t win but I have really enjoyed watching Tasha dance.”
AuRun1 says: “Jaw on floor! Showdance for the ages. Aljaz looked great, Tasha was the star.”
MikeMoonlight adds: “The only thing missing from that shameless ‘Here’s your long-lost brother from Australia’ moment was Cilla Black bursting into a chorus of Surprise Surprise...’”
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Some of your thoughts on the outstanding JB Gill now. Somersetlass says: “So happy to see JB and Lauren’s Viennese Waltz again, but this is even better this time. Pure joy and style. Hasn’t JB gained in confidence? What a start to the final.”
indigoviolet says: “Oh, that was gorgeous (again). Enjoyed it more without the extra dancers. Well done, JB and Lauren.”
SparklingDormouse says: “Wow! Well I’ve got a huge smile on my face now. Motown is fab and that had groove. Needed a bit more time to tidy it up but I LOVED LOVED that!”
paperview says: “The thing I love about the way JB has started dancing in these last few weeks is the way in which he can make some of those moves look like they just appeared spontaneously, rather than being learned. He just seems to enjoy all the dancing he’s doing.”
JoMK73 says: “Just loved that showdance from JB and Lauren. Gave me goosebumps. Understated, no tricks, just joy in the music and the dance. Adored it.”
Sparkleston60 adds: “Fab-u-lous. JB deserves to win - but the emotion and admiration for Chris makes it, I think, unlikely. That was a great dance.” Mewwy Cwistmas indeed.
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Your feedback on the final
Here’s a rapidfire round-up of your climactic comments. LazyMillennial says: “I’ll never get tired of the references to Donny ‘TEN BABY’ Osmond.”
tiredgiraffe says: ‘Really wish I’d never told the husband that Anton was ‘the Uncle Albert’ of Strictly. Every time he’s called, I hear ‘during the war…’”
whistledownthewind says: “As it’s the last show, I’ll repeat: why oh why is Craig not head judge? Entertaining, professional and he knows when to use a ten paddle. Plus I’m getting used to the beard.”
Cubana0104 says: “Strong final - everyone kept raising the game. Too busy watching to comment! But just wanted to say that Chris and Dianne’s final dance and the response to it is quite likely my TV highlight of the year. This is why I keep tuning in to Strictly. At its best, it can be truly humbling.”
Phoebe adds: “I have really enjoyed this series, more than any other I think, because we have had such great contestants who were upbeat, cheerful, optimistic and not whiny moaners about the miseries in their lives. As a consequence it has been a joyful, fun show and a pleasure to watch their astonishing (in most cases) progress and warm, friendly relationships develop.”
Series repaired Strictly’s reputation
“The Great Unpleasantness” suddenly feels like a very long time ago. After a scandal-plagued summer, inquiries were launched, safeguarding measures were introduced and question marks were raised over the show’s future. Strictly needed a strong series to bounce back, dispel doubts and silence BBC bashers. Happily it delivered.
Helped by the heroic Chris McCausland, this proved a vintage contest. The standard was sky-high. The humour shone through. Glitz, glamour and infectious warmth radiated from the screen. It never felt too competitive, with the couples all supporting each other.
The result was crowd-pleasing primetime entertainment with not a whiff of toxicity (one alleged wandering hand aside). In its landmark 20th year, the sparkly Strictly magic remained intact. Fab-u-lous. And frankly, phew.
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Runners-up can count themselves unlucky
You’ve got to feel for our three runners-up. In many other years, they’d all have been champion. They didn’t reckon for the feelgood phenomenon that was Chris McCausland.
Pop star-turned-farmer JB Gill was arguably the one who came closest. He was the in-form dancer and only dropping a single point across three routines. He had bounced back from a dance-off fright and coped seamlessly with a mid-series change of partner when Amy Dowden withdrew with injury and Lauren Oakley stepped in. “J-Ballroom” came out of his shell, learning to love dance, relax and let go, blossoming as he did so. He can console himself that he’s the highest-scoring boyband member in Strictly history, ahead of previous winners Harry Judd and Jay McGuiness. Both his partners can take a lot of credit.
Actor Sarah Hadland would have also made a fine champion. The pocket rocket formed a firecracker partnership with reigning pro champ Vito Coppola. Her showbizzy routines were full of drama, theatricality, flawless legs and fearless lifts. They became the most consistent couple in the competition, always scoring in the high 30s and finishing near the top of the leaderboard. Along with Chris McCausland, Sarah was the only celebrity never to appear in the dance-off. She flew the flag for midlife women, dedicating her success to her fellow school gates mums, and finally notched a perfect 40 tonight. Strictly has transformed her confidence. What has she done to make herself feel proud? A helluva lot, actually.
Last but not least comes Tasha Ghouri. Technically the best dancer in the field by far – and possibly in Strictly history, said Anton Du Beke – yet she was never likely to win. The Love Island alumna, who has a cochlear implant, had too much prior dance experience and was simply too good, often looking like a professional and lacking the “journey” that voting viewers love to watch. Paired with popular returning pro Aljaž Škorjanec, Tasha was the contest’s highest scorer throughout but the fact that she’d survived the dance-off for the past two weeks showed she was lacking public support when it mattered. A shame because she was an exceptional dancer, like another Ashley Roberts. The best dancer doesn’t always win - that’s the beauty of Strictly.
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Over-marking became bonkers
Yes, it was the final. Yes, it was arguably the highest standard ever. Yes, a rousing climax was the order of the day. But did we really need quite so many 10s?
Craig Revel Horwood was the only judge to even remotely critique the routines. The other three judges just gushed and raised their 10 paddles to literally every dance. After a while, all those maximums became meaningless. Less is more, guys. You’re judges, not cheerleaders. Here endeth my Scrooge grumble.
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Young guns and late thesps on TV tonight
As we all get our breath back, you can now flip to Wham! Night on BBC Two or Dame Maggie Smith: A Celebration on ITV1. At 9pm, it’s the finale of Norwegian drama State Of Happiness on BBC Four. At 9.25pm, Moonflower Murders also reaches it’s conclusion on BBC One.
If you need a film to unwind after all that glitter, tonight’s picks are The Notebook (9pm on ITVBe), The Silence of the Lambs (10.30pm on ITV4) or Mad About The Boy: The Noel Coward Story (11.20pm on BBC Four).
Dianne deserved it too
She was already a two-time finalist, having finished runner-up with both Joe Sugg and Bobby Brazier. However, this was truly Dianne Buswell’s year. She has took on what many thought was an impossible job and worked miracles. Never has a Strictly pro deserved that glitterball more.
The upbeat Australian had no idea how she’d teach someone who’d never seen the dances and didn’t know the show. She admitted being scared but said Chris McCausland taught her that fear isn’t always a bad thing. With imaginative training techniques, patience and warm humour, they’ve built a partnership on trust, togetherness and cracking chemistry. Her look of pride at the end of every single routine said it all.
For Chris to master difficult styles - and constantly improve while doing so - demonstrates how Dianne is a phenomenal teacher. Pulling off those spectacular lifts so flawlessly and fearlessly has been awe-inspiring. Throughout it all, they had a blast. The bubbly redhead from Bunbury made it third time lucky, in the process proving what a Strictly star she is. Fair dinkum, Di.
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Chris was a worthy winner - and he’s helped save Strictly
He was already the people’s champion. Now he’s the actual champion too, inheriting the glitterball trophy from Ellie Leach. And my word, how Chris McCausland deserved it.
Blazing a trail as Strictly’s first ever blind contestant, it’s hard to believe the Liverpudlian comic came into this contest with no idea of how he would learn to dance and predicting an exit by week two. Ten weeks later, he wasn’t just still in the ballroom. He was lifting the trophy. Forming an extraordinary partnership with Dianne Buswell - more on her in a moment - Chris improved hugely throughout the contest. He always had fantastic rhythm, timing and musicality. His footwork became a wonder to behold. His frame and posture have transformed beyond all recognition.
He had duly delivered some unforgettable routines: the Fred Astaire-style American smooth in Blackpool, their euphoric Couple’s Choice with lights-out moment, their emotive You’ll Never Walk Alone waltz - and exceeded all expectations. He was the lowest scoring of the four finalists and never topped the leaderboard. Not even tonight, despite scoring his first perfect 40. However, his huge popularity means that he’s never been in the dance-off either. By the time this grand final arrived, breakout star Chris had become the odds-on bookie’s favourite.
He duly waltzed to victory on a wave of goodwill and positivity. What a story. What an inspiration. What a beautiful dancer he became. He’s shown what’s possible with a lot of hard work, a lot of courage and a determination not to be pigeon-holed. With his self-deprecating quips and backchat to the judges, he has also been flat-out hilarious.
Chris has connected with people and won the nation’s hearts. He has restored the feelgood factor to Strictly and helped repair the franchise’s reputation after that unedifying summer of scandal. Not a bad autumn’s work for a bloke who “sits on a stool and tells jokes for a living”.
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The Golden Glitterballs: grand final edition
Who needs the actual trophy when there’s our coveted liveblog baubles to win? Here are the last gong-getters of the series…
Best dance: For technique, Tasha’s showdance. For everything else, Chris McCausland’s three numbers.
Worst dance: There wasn’t one. If you held me at gunpoint, how about the cast reunion dance? No-shows from Paul Merson and Nick Knowles didn’t help.
Best music choice: A tie between Benny Goodman’s big band number and Tommy Blaize’s magnificent rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone.
Worst music choice: Madonna’s Like A Prayer missed a line.
Best outfit: Tasha’s red showdance dress.
Worst outfit: JB’s brown pleather samba slacks. Honourable mentions for Sarah Hadland’s ropy bobbed wig and Vito’s trouser malfunction.
Best VT: The judges’ masterclasses.
Worst VT: The soppy ones before the showdances. Emoting! Swelling music! Sincerity overload! But if you can’t get away with it in the final, when can you?
Best judges’ comment: Motsi when she cried and ruined her make-up: “300 hours spent on my face and all for nothing.” Also, Chris McCausland “officially breaking” Craig.
Best Claudia quip: On Craig awarding his 100th perfect 10 after 20 years: “It took Anton six weeks. Donny Osmond did it in one actual show.”
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Credits roll
The cast invade the dancefloor to hoist the winner shoulder high. Dave Arch and his band perform Never Forget by Take That. Tune. We are invincible actually.
For the last time this series (sob), Tess and Claud cuddle up, sway and tell us to “Keeeeeep dancing!”. Please stay with us for analysis, reaction and a round-up of your grand final wisdom.
Glitter cannons fire and confetti falls as they lift that “tasteful” trophy. And Chris lifts Di. Both tearful.
So there we have it. Chris McCausland becomes the 22nd Strictly Come Dancing champion in the contest’s milestone 20th year. His dance partner Dianne Buswell wins the coveted title in her third final. What a partnership. A widely predicted result but the right one, I think.
“It’s astonishing,” says Chris. “I thought I could go out in the first week or two but we’ve lasted and lasted. Dianne has got so much out of me and deserves this so much. It’s for her and everyone out there who’s been told they couldn’t do something. With opportunity, support and determination, anyone can do anything.”
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Chris McCausland is the Strictly 2024 champion
To widespread jubilation, comedian Chris and his pro partner Dianne Buswell are announced as the winners.
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Glitterball winner about to be unveiled
Right, that’s enough filler VTs and heart-hands, thank you. Here we go, gang. Time for tension-building… looooong… pauses…. as we discover the identity of the new Strictly champion. And the winner is…
Pro routine sees Raye return
She appeared on last weekend’s results show and now the genre-defying, record-breaking Raye is back in the ballroom for a performance of her hit Oscar Winning Tears. John Williams-esque Bond theme vibes.
She’s joined by the Strictly professionals in an understatedly glamorous number, choreographed by Jason Gilkison. Eight black-and-gold-clad dancers pair up for a passionate, intense and intricate jazz-theatre routine. There are tricks, lifts and chair work. Counterbalancing and sharp moves. A stylised stunner. And crikey, Raye has some pipes on her.
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The vote is now closed
Being counted and “independently verified” as we speak. Love an independent verification.
Wynne Evans busts out some Charleston and a song. Pete Wicks is back in “those” trousers. Still eye-watering. Montell Douglas does some Couple’s Choice moves. Great hair too.
It’s pandemonium on that packed floor but colourful, camp-as-Christmas fun and an infectious reminder of what a superb series it’s been. Great Unpleasantness? What Great Unpleasantness?
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Sam Quek slips back into her Rocky Horror sauce-wear. Dr Punam Krishan will see us now. Jamie Borthwick visibly delighted to be back, complete with ketchup bottle.
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They're back, back, back
Swimmer Tom Dean (remember him?) busts out some pink-clad, chlorine-scented cha-cha steps. Just me or does he faintly resemble Wallace of Gromit fame? Toyah “Annoyah” Willcox waggles her head and crawls around.
Paul Merson and Nick Knowles aren’t there, sadly, so they have masks on sticks instead. Shame, as Merse in particular was great value in the VT.
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Strap in for Strictly class of 2024 reunion
Another traditional highlight of the final now as this year’s eliminated contestants return for a special celebratory group number. Proper high school reunion vibes.
Happy 20th ballroom birthday
A trailer now for Strictly Come Dancing: 20 Fabulous Years – a one-off anniversary special, celebrating two decades of glitterball glory and airing next Saturday. Old faces! Memorable dances! Danny Mac’s chest! Oppa Ed Balls style!
Final leaderboard in full
The judges’ scoring is just for guidance, of course. The public vote alone will decide the result. But here’s how they stand after all three of tonight’s dances are combined:
Tasha and Aljaž - 39 + 40 + 40 = 119 points
JB and Lauren - 40 + 39 + 40 = 119 points
Sarah and Vito - 39 + 39 + 40 = 118 points
Chris and Dianne – 38 + 36 + 40 = 116 points
Dozen dances rewound
A recap of all 12 of tonight’s routines on-screen now. Those celebrities must have sore feet and sequin fatigue. They’ll sleep well tonight, as nannas used to say.
And into a world exclusive peak of the Anglo-Welsh romcom’s Christmas Day finale. Limbo dancing! Gaviscon! The drama, Mick, I love it!
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Nessa from Gavin & Stacey on the Ts & Cs
Up in the Clauditorium, Ruth Jones in character is the last VIP guest of the series to read out the voting smallprint. She accuses a gleeful Claudia of copying her hairstyle and effortlessly puts down a heckle of “What’s occurring?”.
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Judges’ scores for Sarah and Vito: 10, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 40 points. Her first maximum, right at the last. Third place on a dizzyingly high-scoring leaderboard. Vito gives a sweet speech about women being superheroes.
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Judges’ comments for Sarah and Vito: Anton says “this has been the best final ever and you’ve blown me away week after week, thank you for getting the leather trousers and leotard wedging out again, Vito”. Craig says “you kicked that routine up the bottom, darling, marvellous”. Motsi says “amazing”. Shirley concludes “you’ve gone from unsure of yourself to a leading lady, sensational”. She scored 37 points in week seven. Can she go better? Even three points better?
Sarah and Vito’s cha cha cha
For their Couple’s Favourite, “Team Tiramisu” are taking it to cha-cha-church again with their Madonna number from Icons Week. A cloak but no pratfall like Madge at the Brit Awards, thankfully. Sarah Hadland whips it off to reveal a cone bra and leaps down the stairs into Vito Coppola’s arms. He’s sporting those black PVC fetish trousers that he borrowed from Anton’s Zoolander costume, not to mention his painful-looking vest-body thingy #chafing. They launch into a fast, rhythmical and technically tricky party dance. Sarah getting right into character. Empowered, sassy and dynamic. Shirley wanted more fluidity and flexibility last time around. Has she delivered it this time? Looked a bit hurried at times but poptastic and power-packed.
Song: Like a Prayer by Madonna. The 1989 dance-gospel single with the infamous provocative ideo, which featured a dream sequence of Madonna kissing a blank saint in church. The Vatican condemned it, TV stations banned it and religious groups organised a boycott of Pepsi, which used the song in an advert and subsequently cancelled their sponsorship deal with La Ciccone. Always preferred the other brand of cola anyway. Yes, I mean Tab.
Judges’ scores for Chris and Dianne: 10 (yay), 10, 10, 10 for a total of 40 points. Saved his best for last.
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Judges’ comments for Chris and Dianne: Emotional scenes all round. Motsi says “I’m not the only one crying now, you’re a role model for all of us, not just the blind community, showing us everything is possible if you keep pushing”. Shirley says “totally on top of your game” and gives Di a congratulatory cuddle for being “an amazing teacher”. A tearful Anton says “crikey Moses, you’re an exceptional man and changing people’s lives” and gives a shout-out to “another proud Liverpudlian, Tommy Blaize”. Craig concludes “I’ve written you a little poem in a Christmas card” which mentions sticky-out bums but hails him as a “light that shines for all to see” and runs out to give them a cuddle. A lot of love in the ballroom.
Chris and Dianne’s waltz
Their Couple’s Favourite is their spine-tingling You’ll Never Walk Alone waltz from back in week five - the earliest dance from the series which we’ll see tonight. It meant a lot to Chris, representing his football team and his home city. So powerful that even Everton fans liked it. Lovely vocals from Tommy Blaize again (a Liverpool fan himself). Chris has improved his posture enormously over the last two months. Stronger legs too, although dry ice concealed some of the footwork. Slow and controlled with rise and fall, changes of direction. Heart-melting ending where he walks alone across the floor and rejoins Dianne. It moved Shirley to tears and scored their first nines for a 35-point total last time. Expect that to rise, not fall.
Song: You’ll Never Walk Alone by Gerry and the Pacemakers. The showtune from Carousel which became a Liverpool FC anthem after it was recorded by the Merseybeat band in 1963 and topped the charts for four weeks.
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Judges’ scores for Tasha and Aljaž: 10, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 40 points. Like JB, she’s only dropped one point across three dances.
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Judges’ comments for Tasha and Aljaž: Tess does a “your little face”. Craig does a “one word: fab-ew-lous”. Motsi says “I felt it so deeply”. Shirley says “a treat, you are very special”. Anton concludes “shame it has to come to an end, I think you’re about the best we’ve ever had, an amazing talent”. A nailed-on 40, right?
Tasha and Aljaž’s American smooth
Their Couple’s Favourite scored the first perfect 40 of the series, just three weeks ago. It will be hard to match it, let alone improve upon it. Moving as one in a heartfelt dance, dedicated to Aljaž Škorjanec’s toddler daughter Lyra. Ballroom boy Aljaž’s favourite dance is the foxtrot, so he’s in his element with these Rolls-Royce steps. Dreamy, expressive and emotional, equally at ease in or out of hold. Precise with lovely long limbs. An impressive standing leg-flex and a spinning lift which made Tasha Ghouri dizzy last time, partly due to her cochlear implant. They need to extend the lines and polish their technique. They indeed did. Craig described it in one word last time (“fab-u-lous”) and Anton got weepy. He just might again.
Song: Someone You Loved by Lewis Capaldi. The Glaswegian troubadour’s 2018 chart-topper, written in response to the death of his grandmother. His distant relative, actor Peter Capaldi, starred in the video. Cue Doctor Who “attack eyebrows” and Malcolm Tucker sweariness.
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JB says that lifting the trophy would make the perfect “Mewwy Cwistmas”, just for us fans of Harry Hill’s TV Burp. Good lad. That’s my TV highlight of the weeeeeeeeek…
Judges’ scores for JB and Lauren: 10. 10, 10, 10 for a total of 40 points. JB came into this final as the in-form dancer and he’s only dropped one point across three routines. Glitterball-worthy?
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Judges’ comments for JB and Lauren: Shirley says “who chooses to do a samba three times? Even cooler, timing off the charts, your whole body screamed samba”. Anton says “fluid and brilliant, you’re an exceptional dancer, wonderful to watch”. Craig says “a samba sen-say-tion, darling”. Motsi concludes “you’re a role model, in my eyes you’re a champion”. Another 40 en route for JB’s last dance?
JB and Lauren’s samba
The Couple’s Favourite is their samba from week eight - the one that saw JB Gill crowned the “samba king” by Motsi (alomg with Danny Mac and Kelvin Fletcher, obv) and prompted Shirley to say he was “in it to win it”. A fortnight later, he and pro partner Lauren Oakley won Strictly’s inaugural samba-thon, so this a canny choice. Wriggly hips and natural groove. Expressive shimmies and shakes. Living the dance, full of expression. Lovely ripples, rolls and undulation. High-energy and feelgood which suits the final. A Latin carnival, full of bounce for the big occasion. It scored 37 points, with only Anton giving it a 10, so JB needs to fine-tune the details to win over the other three judges. I’m not sure he entirely did but let’s see.
Song: Mas Que Nada by Sergio Mendes. This 1966 hit became one of the Brazilian musician’s signature songs. Mendes died this year, aged 83.
Judges’ scores for Sarah and Vito: 9, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 39 points. Sarah called that “the big fancy”.
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Judges’ comments for Sarah and Vito: Motsi says “speechless, knocked me off my feet, iconic”. Shirley says “fantastic quality, didn’t miss a beat, a joyous number”. Anton says “a showstopper, this is a ridiculously great final” and then makes some random noises. Craig concludes “didn’t sink into the 50s jazz style for me (boo!) but perilous lifts were extraordinary”. Another 39-pointer?
Sarah and Vito’s showdance
Devised with choreographer Matt Flint, this Cabaret number recalls her Fosse-style Couple’s Choice from Blackpool. A theatrical and dramatic feel so Sarah Hadland can flex her acting chops and express herself. Looking fierce with a blonde bob and white-and-silver beaded dress. Notes of quickstep, jazz and tap. Lifts and tricks. A bit stop-start but that’s a stylistic choice. A representation of their journey through the contest, almost Chicago-esque at times. High kick up to her head. “If Vito thinks I can, I can,” says Sarah. Gorgeous. Sparks fly for a big finish.
Song: Cabaret by Metropole Orkest. This song from the 1966 musical was sung by Liza Minelli in the 1972 film version, of course, and Judi Dench in the West End production. This version is by the Dutch jazz orchestra, conducted by Britain’s own Jules Buckley.
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Judges’ scores for Chris and Dianne: 8 (boo!), 10, 10, 10 for a total of 38 points.
Judges’ comments for Chris and Dianne: A tearful Shirley says “things don’t need to be perfect to be special, you’ve broken new ground across the whole series, confident and intricate, I applaud you both”. Anton says “Dianne gives it the full biffta, which is testament to you, the most extraordinary person we’ve ever had on Strictly”. Craig says “totally into the music, total conviction and loved the Latin finger”. Motsi concludes “such strong connection between you, you’ve found a home in her arms”.
Chris and Dianne’s showdance
Chris McCausland is most comfortable and confident in hold, so he’s relishing this celebration of classic ballroom. Retro pop show graphics and some air guitar from Chris to start. Dianne in a La La Land turquoise frock and Chris in a sparkly waistcoat. It’s a greatest hits of every style, kicking off with foxtrot, then into quickstep, tango and Viennese waltz. Some Charleston steps. A few footwork fumbles but high-energy, full of joy - and not a Latin style in sight. A clap-along party of a showdance. A choreographic pick ’n’ mix, all served up on a ballroom platter. Confetti and knee-slide to finish. Sweet and smile-inducing.
Song: You Get What You Give by New Radicals. This chugging 1998 power-pop banger was written by frontman Gregg “not Wallace” Alexander after he had a dream about Joni Mitchell - who later praised the song as one of her favourites. Pleasing.
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Tasha’s brother Alex surprises her on the balcony. She thought he was in Australia but he’s just landed. Aww, that was like something off Surprise Surprise. A lorra lorra tears.
Judges’ scores for Tasha and Aljaž: 10, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 40 points. “Knockout,” says La Winkle. Joint top with JB as it stands.
Judges’ comments for Tasha and Aljaž: Anton says “my dream dance, you did it just for me, the perfect showdance”. Craig says “sassy, style, superb, Broadway-ready, loved it”. Motsi says “you zoomed off and didn’t let up”. Shirley concludes “magical, serene ease of movement, loved it and loved it some more”. Aljaž looks exhausted. Again. But a 40 should pep him up…
Tasha and Aljaž’s showdance
A big band tune for a delightfully jazzy dance. Tasha Ghouri prefers ballroom to Latin and this showdance is suitably old-style and classic in feel. Looking every inch the golden age Hollywood starlet in a flowing red dress and evening gloves, set against the black-and-white skyline. Elements of quickstep, foxtrot, Charleston, waltz and musical theatre. It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing and this has it in spades. Anton’s bound to say he wished he’d danced this. Upbeat and gloriously grin-inducing. A bobby dazzler, worthy of Fred and Ginger (not Neil). Wow, I could watch that again right now.
Song: Sing, Sing, Sing by Benny Goodman. AJ Odudu and Kai Widdrington quickstepped to this 1930s jazz standard three series ago.
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Judges’ scores for JB and Lauren: 9, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 39 points. His former partner Amy Dowden hugs them both. There’s lovely.
Judges’ comments for JB and Lauren: Craig says “a little bit heavy in places but rhythm and groove is totally you, your energies matched, loved the jazz bit”. Motsi says “you put soul on the dancefloor”. Shirley says “Craig is getting confused between heavy and grounded, swag and cool”. Anton concludes “unbridled joy”. A 39-pointer? Aston Merrygold (robbed! never forget!) is in the audience.
JB and Lauren’s showdance
Showdance o’clock now. Exciting. Theatrical choreographer Tommy Franzen has collaborated with JB Gill and Lauren Oakley on this Motown mash-up. Retro 1970s styling with orange and giant TV prop. Side-by-side sections and into an impressive splits by JB. A jazzy, funky grab-bag, full of groove, with nods to their street/commercial Couple’s Choice number from Icons Week. A bit of hustle and hip-hop. Nice partnering work. Lifts and tricks. Freedom of movement and serious swag. JB is really showcasing what he’s learnt here. Huge fun. A proper party dance but flagged a bit in patches for me.
Song: Motown medley. It includes a blast of Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, the 1967 hit for Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, later recorded by The Supremes. It was written by husband-and-wife team Ashford & Simpson, duet specialists who had a hit of their own 17 years later with Solid.
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Voting is… drum roll please… open!
The public vote is announced and the usual prop-based pandemonium kicks off in the Clauditorium. Viewer votes alone will decide the winner, remember, so use yours wisely. That concludes this party non-political broadcast.
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Dame Laura Kenny on the Ts & Cs
Up in the Clauditorium, our most successful female Olympian of all time is the last VIP guest of the series to read out the voting smallprint. A fittingly golden figure for the final. Sparkly frock too.
Judges’ scores for Sarah and Vito: 9, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 39 points. Their joint best. Sally Phillips cheering her on in the ballroom. Sarah does a decent Shirley impression but Fleur East’s is better.
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Judges’ comments for Sarah and Vito: Vito’s had a trouser malfunction. Be still our beating slacks. Shirley says “superb, you remembered all the details”. Anton says “clean and captivating”. Craig says “a little bit of gapping but flow and footwork impressive, lifts were spec-tac-u-lar, darling”. Motsi concludes “lovely lightness, great job”. It scored 33 points last time and deserved better. I suspect it will get it now.
Sarah and Vito’s American smooth
Their Judges’ Pick sees Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola reprising their week eight routine to the song that has soundtracked Sarah’s career since Miranda. Wind machine side-by-side section, then into a long lift. Foxtrot steps and softened knees for that smooth and floaty feel. Vito reintroduces his cartwheel lift. Anton wanted him to tuck his bottom in and point his toes last time, while Shirley said Sarah got tight in the upper body. They’ve been working on getting her breathing right, being more airy and nailing the details with no gapping. An upbeat, celebratory ballroom number with wow-factor lifts. Such fun.
Song: Proud by Heather Small. Since its 2000 release, the M People diva’s debut solo single has become a rousing motivational anthem, often used at the Olympics and London Marathon. It also became an in-joke from sitcom Miranda, of course. What have you done today? I’ve walked the dog and prepped for this liveblog. Do I feel proud? In a way, yes.
Judges’ scores for Chris and Dianne: 8, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 38 points. Chris is “overwhelmed” and says “Craig is a sweetheart”, despite “giving a score to his own teaching”.
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Judges’ comments for Chris and Dianne: Craig says “transitions smoother, hip action fantastic, full of showbiz pizzazz”. Motsi says “I’m a mess because of you, I said I wouldn’t cry, you bring the joy”. Shirley says “extraordinary flexibility and great details, genuine improvement”. Anton concludes “just wow, embellishments, extraordinary musicality, I’d give it 12 if I could”. Lee Mack is in the studio audience cheering on his mate Chris. No, really. Would I lie to you?
Chris and Dianne’s Couple’s Choice
The Judges’ Pick is their Couple’s Choice from week eight. Dianne was ill with a stomach bug but soldiered through brilliantly. Now she can enjoy it more. All-white outfits. Starts off standing on a table and chair, then hops down onto the floor for a euphoric mix of jazz and musical theatre. Slight mistake with top hats, maybe? Joy and showmanship, really selling it hard. He’s improved his shapes and is giving it plenty of pizzazz. That blackout moment to represent his blindness and immerse us in his sightless world hasn’t lost any of its power, followed by a spinning lift and a euphoric finish. You’re a superstar, Chris, that’s what you are. It got 33 points last time. Higher, higher!
Song: Instant Karma (We All Shine On) by John Lennon. In 1970, this Phil Spector-produced track became the first solo single by a Beatle to sell a million copies in the US. It’s one of the fastest-released songs in pop history, arriving in record stores just 10 days after it was written. As Lennon said: “I wrote it for breakfast, recorded it for lunch and we’re putting it out for dinner.”
Judges’ scores for Tasha and Aljaž: 9, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 39 points. Same as last time.
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Judges’ comments for Tasha and Aljaž: Motsi says “beautiful, all about the emotions, your grace and freedom made it look easy, you have star quality”. Shirley says “you have a magical musical body, improved and in the zone”. Anton says “spectacular and exceptional, you’re quite possibly the best dancer we’ve ever had”. Craig concludes “needed a little bit more earth but stunning”. Another 40 incoming? Or will Craig make it a 39?
Tasha and Aljaž’s Couple’s Choice
Their Judges’ Pick is their contempo-waft Couple’s Choice from Icons Week. Because P!nk totally counts as an icon, as does Bruno Mars. Ahem. The song means a lot to Tasha Ghouri as an empowerment anthem. Choreographed by Lukas McFarlane, who has worked with P!nk herself, it’s contemporary and lyrical in style. Barefoot and beautiful with lovely lifts and full of feeling. Exquisite elevation and extensions. Aljaž Škorjanec said it was his favourite story he’s ever told on Strictly. It scored 39 points last time, so there’s room for improvement *glares at Craig*. Tasha just needs to let herself go, feel the lyrics and show that extra layer of emotion. I think she has, although a few of the transitions looked a tiny bit lumpy to me.
Song: What About Us by P!nk. The 2017 electro-pop chart-topper has politically charged lyrics about Trump’s government failing the American people. Happy New Year, voters!
Craig's century of 10s
He gets a special pair of commemorative deeley boppers from Claudia.
Judges’ scores for JB and Lauren: 10, 10, 10, 10 for a total of 40 points. A (kite) flying start.
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Judges’ comments for JB and Lauren: Anton says “amazing, I’m delighted, loved it, better than before, I’m an amazing teacher, more sway and your head line had improved”. Craig says “not happy, I couldn’t find anything wrong with it, elegance and quality”. Motsi says “elevated and improved it, light footwork, beautiful partnering, shone like a star in the solo sections”. Shirley concludes “a grand start to a finale”. Are we about to see our first perfect 40 of the final?
JB and Lauren’s Viennese waltz
First up is the Judges’ Pick. This one’s from Musicals Week, just a fortnight ago, but nobody will mind seeing this Mary Poppins-themed showstopper again. JB Gill and Lauren Oakley spin and twirl romantically around the floor in an immaculate routine, full of flair and fun. No extra backing dancers this time, so we can focus on their nostalgic characterisation and all the technical details. Swing, sway and flow. Bags of style. Practically perfect in every possible way. They scored 39 points last time, only a oivot and a sticky-up thumb away from perfection. Surely he’s fixed that and Craig will give JB the thumbs-up this time?
Song: Let’s Go Fly a Kite from Mary Poppins. The breezy song from the 1964 musical was written by the Sherman brothers, inspired by their father Al, who was a keen amateur kite-maker.
Our Strictly stars™
We get our first sighting of the four finalists. Not much fancy dress but their outfits do provide clues to their first dances. Cor blimey, Mary Poppins, up the apples and stairs.
Grand entrance by the judges
The esteemed paddle-raising panel arrive in all their finery for the last time this series. Motsi Mabuse is zebra print, Shirley Ballas ina gold ballgown. Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood in tuxedos. Tess and Claud join in the welcome dance – and don’t mess it up this time. Attagirls.
Frockwatch
Here come our hostly duo, so time for the last couture comparison of the series. Tess Daly is in red bodycon. Claudia Winkleman is monochrome. Claud goes out on a win.
Our finalists dance into view, all in blue. For Ipswich Town FC, I imagine.
Capes akimbo. They might need them in this nippy weather.
Dancing gets started straight away
We open with a group number from the Strictly pros. It’s set to Dreamer by Livin’ Joy (tune) with sparkly gold outfits and spicy Latin moves. And here come our finalists as part of the action.
Roll VT to ratchet up the tension. How many times will we hear the J-word (journey) tonight? More or less than the B-word in Blackpool, do we reckon?
And we’re off!
Cue clap-along credits. Our last chance to enjoy this year’s title sequence. What’s your favourite bit? For me, it’s a dance-off between Pete Wicks’ hair toss, Paul Merson’s bum-bump and Sarah Hadland booping Vito’s snoot.
Last chance for a drink refill and some light limbering up from a seated position. We’re about to go live to the Elstree Studios ballroom for the last time this series…
Will we get our first two-time male pro champ?
A male professional has never lifted the glitterball trophy twice but both Aljaž Škorjanec and Vito Coppola are bidding to do just that tonight, having previously triumphed with Abbey Clancy and Ellie Leach respectively.
Meanwhile, Lauren Oakley or Dianne Buswell would become first-time winners. Who’ll get pro bragging rights? Five minutes and counting down…
The Wrong Trousers
And for once, we don’t mean Pete Wicks’ pink ones from Blackpool. A rerun of Wallace & Gromit’s Oscar-winning 1993 animation is on BBC One now, warming us up for their comeback on Christmas Day. Just me or does Feathers McGraw look a bit like Anton du Beke?
Mere minutes to wait now, my hoofing hombres…
Can Sarah notch a perfect 40 at last?
Sarah Hadland has scored between 36 and 39 points on seven occasions this series. Can she score her first maximum when it really counts? Tasha Ghouri has scored two perfect 40s and JB Gill one. They’ll be trying to tempt out those precious paddles again tonight.
It’s 10 minutes until glittery go-time…
One of the biggest TV nights of the year
Strictly’s Saturday night audience has been pretty steady at around the 9million mark this series. That’s expected to rise to 11million-plus for tonight’s final.
Proof that despite rumours of its demise, terrestrial TV remains unbeatable at creating communal, nation-uniting events like tonight. Expect even more whopping ratings for Gavin & Stacey on Christmas Day, for example.
It’s 10 minutes until the glitterball starts spinning…
On your dance cards tonight
We’ll see a typically Strictly mix of styles in tonight’s final. There’s two ballroom routines (a waltz and a Viennese), a pair of Latin numbers (a samba and a cha-cha), plus two American smooths, two Couple’s Choices and, of course, those four eagerly awaited showdances.
Hold tight. Scream if you want to go faster. It’s 15 minutes until ballroom blast-off…
Let’s play Strictly final bingo!
Eyes down for one last game. Tick them off when you see them on screen! Take a drink for each! Wake up wrapped in tinsel under the Christmas tree with a mystery Bailey’s stain on your novelty jumper! Here’s your last 10-point spotter’s guide of the series…
Craig declares a dance as “one word: a-may-zing” or “one word: fab-u-lous”
Miranda Hart or a member of JLS cheers on their friend from the studio audience
Heartstring-tugging messages from loved ones designed to make the finalists cry
Vito amuses Claudia with a tortuous food or animal analogy
Paul Merson rides a horse, kicks a football or both during the reunion routine
A finalist unconvincingly insists they don’t mind the result because “I’m already a winner”
Someone describes their “journey” as a “rollercoaster”
A celebrity describes their pro partner as “part of the family” or “a friend for life”
Ginger Neil, Katya Jones and Carlos Gu elbow their way to the front of Clauditorium and hog the camera
Tess tells a celebrity “the crowd are on their feet” or “look at your little face”
Pete Wicks makes a rapid return
In last weekend’s semi-final, it was lion-maned, otter-damp reality star Pete Wicks and his pro partner Jowita Przystal who departed the dancefloor. Pete went from novice to semi-finalist, scored everything from a three to a 10, and wore everything from a loincloth to those infamous pink pleather slacks.
After a surprise 12-week run, he rightly went home - but he’ll be back tonight for that climactic reunion routine. Will those trousers reappear too?
Chris McCausland is hot bookies’ favourite
The much-loved Liverpudlian comedian is the overwhelming odds-on favourite with bookmakers to lift the trophy tonight. JB Gill is their second-placed tip, with Sarah Hadland in third and Tasha Ghouri as the rank outsider. But we’ve had upsets in finals before and it’s all to dance for.
We’ll get our first clues in 20 minutes…
A commenter writes
Email just in from regular reader Peter Gibbs, who says:
All the finalists have said how much dance will continue to be part of their life from now on, no matter what. Which is exactly what I said about making my own bread after a weekend sourdough course. And no, I didn’t.
Thank you, livebloggers and commenters, for a wonderful ride. You’re all so knowledgeable, kind, patient and positive.
For any polling, I would prefer the winner to be Chris or JB (very patriarchal, though it’s so influenced by JB’s partner for me). Maybe Tasha third but she will come last of the finalists, I guess. I’m a dreadful cynic, but you and your blog community is making me a better person. Or trying to be one. Enjoy the show everyone!
Four couples with three chances to wow us
Our final four will perform three routines apiece tonight: their own favourite from the series, one chosen by the judges and, of course, the only dance us viewers haven’t seen before – their showdance. It’s a chance to show us what they’ve learned over the last 13 weeks and for their pro partners to flex their choreography muscles.
There are no rules. No limits on how many styles they can combine. Tricks and lifts aren’t just allowed, they’re positively encouraged. Expect our pairings to throw everything (including the kitsch in-sync) at their last chance to impress. Can’t wait but I’m afraid we have to. It’s still 25 minutes until the sparkly curtain comes up…
Who will take the glittery bauble home for Christmas?
Somebody’s mantelpiece is about to acquire some extra festive sparkle. Good evening and welcome to the big one. The huge one. It’s the grand glitterball final of Strictly Come Dancing 2024.
I’m Michael, your cyber dance partner. I’d love you to watch along with me as our four finalists launch their valiant last bid to lift that coveted mirrored trophy.
If they thought learning two full routines for last week’s semi-final was tough, their sore feet ain’t seen nothing yet. Tonight they will tackle three dances apiece. Two they’ve performed earlier in the contest. The third, of course, is the anything-goes showdance - always a series highlight and a keenly awaited treat for the showpiece occasion.
Tonight’s epic live show also sees the brilliant Rae back in the ballroom and the Strictly class of 2024 return for one last razzle-dazzle group routine. It promises to be a spectacular two-and-a-half hour climax to a memorable series. The judges’ scores are for guidance only and the result is solely down to the public vote, so anything can happen on the night.
An early start means it’s showtime at 6pm on BBC One. I’ll be liveblogging from 5.30pm, providing build-up, rolling coverage, analysis, insta-reaction, slightly nerdy stats and ballroom backchat. So for the last Saturday night of the year, pour a pre-festive libation, stock up on snacks and I’ll see you on the sofa.
As always, I’d absolutely love to hear from you too. You can tweet me @michaelhogan, email me michael.hogan.freelance@guardian.co.uk and the comments section below is open for glitterball business. I’ll keep a Shirley Ballas-style beady eye on it all (but without the tiny shoes) and quote a selection of your comments up top.
In Strictly’s landmark 20th year, will our champion be Sarah Hadland, JB Gill, Tasha Ghouri or Chris McCausland? It’s nearly time to staaaaart glitterball-winning!
