Strictly Come Dancing returns with a dazzling season 21, where host Tess Daly reveals her “secret” trick to predicting the final winner from the opening night. “From that moment, I’ve learned to spot who has the potential to go all the way,” Tess confidently shares.
Co-hosting with Claudia Winkleman, Tess praises her as “the best person” – though Claudia’s antics during script meetings sometimes leave Tess laughing until her “mascara runs.” Claudia admits her pre-show “nerves” ritual: munching potato chips and clinging to Tess for calm. “Working with her is pure joy,” Claudia says.
A fresh lineup storms the stage: Alex Kingston, Vicky Pattison, Ellie Goldstein, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, Balvinder Sopal, George Clarke, La Voix, Chris Robshaw, Tom Skinner, Stefan Dennis, Karen Carney, Lewis Cope, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Dani Dyer, and Ross King. The iconic judges – Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke – eagerly await transformative performances.
Standout moment: last year’s champion Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell’s emotional Waltz to “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” giving judges goosebumps. Motsi Mabuse raves, “That’s Strictly’s spirit – emotion, connection, and story.” Shirley Ballas adds, “It’s etched in my heart forever.”
Despite scandals – from a cocaine probe involving two stars, Wynne Evans’ tour exit over remarks, to bullying allegations against Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima, plus Tom Skinner’s admitted affair – Strictly retains its allure through “a magical blend of heart and sparkle.” Anton Du Beke notes, “Viewers love the contestants’ journey.”
The new season airs tomorrow at 6:40 PM on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, promising drama and surprises!
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