Everything you need to know about Strictly Come Dancing 2024
The series will return later this year!
It's now been a massive 20 years since popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing first hit our screens, but some how every year the show just gets better and better, with bigger names and more entertainment!
After Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola were crowned the winners in 2023, fans are gearing up for the new series, with bosses also announcing a special one-off episode to celebrate the show's 20th anniversary.
As we await any more details about the 2024 series, check out everything we know so far.
When does Strictly start?
There's been no official start date given just yet, but the series usually runs between September-December.
The 2023 series kicked off on Saturday 16th September.
Who is taking part in this year's Strictly?
No names have been confirmed just yet, with bosses keeping tight-lipped about the 2024 line-up. However, this hasn't stopped the usual rumours, with names such as Phillip Schofield, Alan Carr and Jill Scott MBE all being tipped to take part.
Check out the Strictly 2024 rumours below:
Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz
According to reports in early 2024, Strictly bosses are keen to make history on the show by signing up married couple Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz to both appear! The rumours are suggesting David and Victoria Beckham's son Brooklyn will be in direct competition with his wife Nicole. Now this would be a huge signing if bosses can pull it off!
Jill Scott MBE
After being crowned Queen of the Jungle during the 2022 series of I'm A Celebrity, former England footballer Jill Scott was heavily rumoured for the 2023 series of Strictly, but after Jill didn't feature, will 2024 be her year?
Phillip Schofield
Rumours have circulated that Phillip Schofield could be taking to the Strictly dancefloor for years, but since his departure from This Morning after 21 years, they've stepped up a notch - with publications reporting that offers have been more "aggressive" this year than for previous series of the show.
Gino D'Acampo
He's loved by the masses, so it's no surprise Strictly bosses are keen to get TV chef Gino D'Acampo on the 2024 series. Gino has been asked to do the show in the past, but he turned the offer down. Will he accept this year?
Louis Theroux
Louis Theroux appeared on The Jonathan Ross show last year, where he said: "I know I've had too many drinks when I'm in the kitchen dancing while listening to something on the smart speaker, often hip-hop, and I start doing the funky robot and then I start doing MC Hammer spins.
"And that's where it happens and I start thinking I should really go on Strictly."
Now we would pay to see that - sign him up!
Sophie Morgan
Loose Women star and TV presenter Sophie Morgan is rumoured to become the first ever wheelchair user to take part in Strictly. A source said: "She is the ideal star to take on the role. Plus, she is very glamorous so will look amazing in the sequined costumes. She already has a huge fan base from Loose Women and is a huge advocate of using her platform to promote inclusivity. It's still very early stages and the crew will officially start on pre-production in the coming months."
Alan Carr
Funny man Alan Carr would make a great addition to the show! Alan appeared on Loose Women where he confirmed he'd been asked to take part in the past, so will we see him on the 2024 series?
Rosie Jones
Comedian and actress Rosie Jones recently admitted watching deaf contestant Rose Ayling-Ellis win the series in 2021 inspired her.
Speaking to metro.co.uk, she said: "I'd say what drives me, is when I was growing up, having cerebral palsy I didn't see anybody like me on TV.
"In recent years, people like Rose Ayling-Ellis on Strictly have just shown that having a disability isn't a disadvantage and it will never stop me!"
Vicky McClure
Following the popularity and success of shows like Line of Duty and Trigger Point, actress Vicky McClure has been linked to the 2024 series of Strictly.
Perri Kiely
Diversity star and KISS FM Breakfast presenter Perri Kiely confessed a few years ago he'd love to take part on the show. Speaking to Digital Spy, the former BGT winner said: "If it was on a technical level, that would be horrendous, so I'd definitely love to give it a go. But I'm not sure people would see that. They'd probably see an unfair advantage. People thought I was cheating on Dancing on Ice, let alone Strictly Come Dancing."
Tom Malone Jr
After leaving Gogglebox in 2021, Tom Malone Jr has expressed his interest in appearing on Strictly in the past. He told the Express: "If the opportunity came up to go on Strictly as a contestant, I've never done Ballroom in my life, so it'd be interesting to see how as someone who breaks."
Munroe Bergdorf
Model Munroe Bergdorf revealed last year she wants to make history by becoming Strictly Come Dancing's first ever transgender contestant.
She told the Make It Reign podcast: "I've always said that 'Strictly' is the only one that I've got a desire to do. I've got a plan. I want to get everything done that I want to achieve, then I can start doing those shows. It's really exciting."
Tommy Fury
After showcasing his 'moves' on his spin-off show The Boxer and the Ballroom Dancer with Love Island co-star Curtis Pritchard, fans have been urging Strictly to sign up boxer Tommy Fury.
Michelle Keegan
Since her husband Mark Wright made it into the Strictly final in 2014, every year rumours have been rife that actress Michelle Keegan will sign up.
But Mark set fire to the rumours even further when he took part in Christmas special back in 2019, telling the Radio Times: "Never say never, but I just think her nerves would go to another level."
Andrew Ridgeley
Wham! star Andrew Ridgeley confessed in July last year he'd love to take part in Strictly, admitting he'd love the chance to learn how to dance properly. He'd be a great signing for 2024!
What is the anniversary special?
15th May 2024 marked 20 years to the day since Strictly Come Dancing first hit our screens, way back in 2004.
To celebrate the last two decades of the show, BBC bosses have commissioned a special one-off show which will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC said: “Strictly Come Dancing is more than just a TV show, it has become an integral part of British culture, bringing families together and inspiring viewers of all ages to embrace the joy of dance. Throughout its 20-year history, the show has launched careers, sparked trends, and touched the hearts of millions with its dazzling performances, emotional journeys, and unforgettable moments and we will be showcasing it all in this very special programme.”
No air date has been given for the anniversary special at the moment.
Who won Strictly 2023?
Former Coronation Street actress Ellie Leach and her professional partner Vito Coppola were crowned the 2023 winners of Strictly Come Dancing.
After each performing three dances during the final, Ellie and Vito won the Glitterball Trophy following a public vote, ahead of Layton Williams and Bobby Brazier.
When is the Strictly final?
No date has been set for the 2024 final just yet, but the 2023 final took place on Saturday 16th December.
What channel is Strictly Come Dancing on?
Strictly Come Dancing airs on BBC One on Saturday and Sunday nights, with the spin-off show Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two, broadcasting on BBC2.
Who are the judges on Strictly Come Dancing?
Although not confirmed just yet, it's understood Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Motsi Mabuse will return for the 2024 series.
Which professional dancers will be on Strictly?
The professional line-up for the 2024 series is yet to be announced, but fans will be hoping to see the likes of Gorka Márquez, Katya Jones, Johannes Radebe, Dianne Buswell and Karen Hauer all return.
In 2022, four brand new dancers joined the show, in the form of Vito Coppola, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley and Michelle Tsiakkas.
Aljaž Škorjanec announced in 2022 that he'd left the show.
Sharing a montage of photos alongside his past celeb partners, he wrote: 'On a beautiful sunny day in May 2013 one phone call changed my life forever!
'It went like this... We would like to offer you a position on @bbcstrictly as a professional dancer. A dream became a reality and it was the biggest opportunity for a 23 year old boy from Slovenia. It didn’t matter how many beautiful ballrooms I performed in during my competitive career, stepping onto the sacred Strictly floor was the most nervous I had ever been.
'A little while ago I made the tough decision that Strictly 2021 would be my last. The show has given me an opportunity and freedom to create and express myself in front of millions of people every weekend for the last 9 years. The love and support I got from the team of producers was second to none. @jasongilkison, @sarahjamesface, @kimwinston, @jack.will.g are just a few of the unsung heroes behind the success of the show - I am forever grateful to them!
'Being a part of a group of professionals that inspire and push you to be better every step of the way is humbling and I will carry that inspiration with me forever. Every year the lineup of dancers would change but one thing stayed the same, WE WERE THE BEST! And this is one thing that I know will never change on Strictly!
'Strictly also has the BEST backstage team - the hair and make-up team, costume department, lighting, sound, props and special effects, camera operators… THANK YOU!
'My beautiful partners.. It's hard to put into words how many beautiful memories we have had. I LOVE YOU ALL!
'To my bucka.. from picking songs, creating stories and choreographing steps we always did it as a team. Your talent and selflessness knows no bounds. We got to perform with Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, BBC Symphony Orchestra.. moments I will keep in my heart forever. I LOVE YOU!
'And finally, thank YOU, the people that watch Strictly who have been so kind to me all these years. Every comment, vote, kind message never went unnoticed. You are the reason we all do it, thank you!
'I have lots of exciting stuff planned that I will fill you in on soon. I can't wait to see what the future holds!
'KEEEEEP DANCING! Aljaz x'. (sic)
Who is hosting Strictly Come Dancing this year?
The lovely Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are set to the return for the 2024 series, but this hasn't been confirmed just yet.
After presenting the Sunday night results show for a number of years, Claudia took over Bruce Forsyth's role as co-presenter alongside Tess in 2014.
Who hosts Strictly: It Takes Two?
Strictly Come Dancing spin-off show Strictly: It Takes Two has become nearly as popular as the main show since it first hit BBC Two in 2004.
After four years presenting the show, Rylan Clark confirmed in April 2023 that he's quit his hosting role, leaving fans wondering who will replace him.
Following the news, it was later announced that last year's contestant Fleur East would join Janette Manrara to host the show. It's not yet been announced if Fleur and Janette will return for the 2024 seires.
How does the Strictly Come Dancing voting work?
The voting on Strictly Come Dancing combines both the judges scores and the public votes, meaning no couple is safe, even if they receive the top score of 40 from the judges.
After all couples have performed, phone lines open for the public to vote for their favourite couple, then the judges scores and the public votes are added together. The couple ranked the highest will be given a number of points equal to the number of couples competing that evening.
Who has won Strictly Come Dancing in the past?
There's so far been 22 different winners of Strictly...
Series 1 winner – Natasha Kaplinsky
BBC newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky was the first celebrity to dance her way to victory in the summer of 2004 with professional dancer Brendan Cole. She finished 39 points ahead of her fellow finalis, Christopher Parker, and received the highest points for eight out of the 10 dances on the series.
Since the competition, Natsha went on to have two children, Arlo and Angelica and was awarded an OBE for her services to the Holocaust Commission. She continued her career in journalism leaving the BBC in 2008, before joining Channel 5 and then ITV.
Series 2 – Jill Halfpenny
Also in 2004 (but this time in December) soap actress Jill Halfpenny also became a Strictly champion alongside her dance partner Darren Bennett. Their Jive was the first ever Strictly routine to score a full house of 40 points, so we're not surprised she went on to win!
Jill was most well known for starring as Rebecca Hopkins in Coronation Street and Kate Mitchell in EastEnders. After Strictly she continued her acting career before stepping onto the West End, performing in plays such as Uncle Vanya and even Chicago. Now, she's a broadcaster for BBC Radio 2, which she's been doing since 2017.
Series 3 – Darren Gough
English cricketer Darren Dough stole the glitterball trophy from the likes of Zoe Ball and chef James Martin, despite never reaching the top of the Strictly leaderboard with his dance partner, Lilia Kopylova. The pair also went on to win the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special in 2005.
Darren retired from his cricketing career in 2008. The following year he became a presenter on the sport radio station Talk Sport, which he is still currently doing.
Mark Ramprakash
You may remember England cricketer Mark Ramprakash was the first ever contestant to restart a routine on Strictly after his microphone got caught in his dance partner's dress. However despite the hiccup, they still received the highest score! He was the second cricketer to bowl through and take home the glitterball in 2006. The sportsman soon departed from playing on the cricket pitch to coaching on it instead, and became the batting coach for the England cricket team. He then departed this role in 2019.
Series 5 – Alesha Dixon
Former R&B singer Alesha Dixon lifted the glitterball in 2007 alongside her dance partner Matthew Cutler in what was a very close final, as she finished just two points ahead of actor Matt Di Angelo.
Since her time on the dance floor, we've seen Alesha sit on the Strictly judging panel herself from 2009 to 2011, before leaving to judge on Britain's Got Talent, America's Got Talent and then Australia's Got Talent.
Series 6 – Tom Chambers
Holby City and Casualty actor Tom Chambers' Strictly win alongside Camilla Dallerup became somewhat controversial, as despite scoring the lowest of the three finalists the public still made him their winner.
Tom clearly enjoyed his time on the dance floor, as he starred in a stage version of the musical Top Hat, before returning for two Strictly Christmas Specials in 2008 and 2015.
Series 7 – Chris Hollins
Ola Jordan helped breakfast presenter Chris Hollins dance his way to victory in 2009. After the show he continued with his presenting career at the BBC for various shows including The Rescues, Cash In The Attic, and The Food Inspectors. He is also a presenter for BT Sport Live.
Series 8 – Kara Tointon
It wasn't just the glitter ball that Eastenders actress Kara Tointon left with at the end of her time on Strictly, but a new love with her professional dance partner Artem Chigvintsev. The pair even celebrated their win with a kiss - how romantic!
Since Strictly Kara continued a successful acting career taking to the stage too. Her most notable role was playing Eliza Doolittle in Pygmalion in the West End and the ITV live production of The Sound of Music, where she played Maria.
Sadly, Kara and Artem's Strictly romance didn't last and the couple decided to part ways in 2014.
Series 9 – Harry Judd
McFly drummer Harry Judd stole the winning spot in series 9 with professional dancer Aliona Vilani, beating fellow finalists Chelsee Healey & Jason Donovan. Harry fought hard to take the winning spot and didn't top the leaderboard until week 7, but from then on he received high 30s throughout the rest of the competition.
Since Strictly, Harry returned to the band McFly and released new music with them in 2020. More recently he welcomed baby number three into the world with his wife, Izzy Judd.
Series 10 – Louis Smith
Louis took home bronze and glitter in 2012 after his success at the 2012 Olympics and on the Strictly dance floor, with dance partner Flavia Cacace. In the final he danced against Denise Van Outen and Girls Aloud's Kimberley Walsh, receiving the lowest score from the judges. But it didn't matter, as the British public voted for him to be their winner. Louis continued to represent Great Britain in the Olympics before retiring and swapping gymnastics for the theatre. He even continued doing some dancing too and took part in this years series of The Masked Dancer and won!
Series 11 – Abbey Clancy
Abbey Clancy and Aljaž Skorjanec's routine regularly stole the show, so we weren't surprised when the pair were crowned the Strictly winners in 2013.
After the show Abbey went on to become a judge Britain's Next Top Model and welcomed her fourth child with husband Peter Crouch in 2019.
Series 12 – Caroline Flack
Caroline Flack and partner Pasha Kovalev became the first and still are the only Strictly couple to receive 40 points for all three dances in the final. Caroline continued a successful TV career after the show, presenting on the X-Factor alongside Olly Murs and on ITV's Love Island. Sadly, Caroline took her own life in February 2020 and our thoughts are with all who knew her.
Since Caroline's passing, her mum Christine has become an advocate for mental health.
Series 13 – Jay McGuiness
Jay McGuiness was one of four members from boy band The Wanted and won with partner Aliona Vilan. The singer credited much of his success to his dance partner and on winning told her: "You deserve it so much, you really do." After taking a musical break for seven years, The Wanted are now back together and are embarking on a UK tour in 2022.
Series 14 - Ore Oduba
The TV and radio presenter was known for wearing his heart on his sleeve throughout the competition, regularly getting emotional throughout the series. But he shed tears of joy after beating Louise Redknapp and ex Hollyoaks star Danny Mac, which saw him take home the glitter trophy.
In 2019 he began his musical theatre career, starring in the UK Tour of Grease and made his West End debut in January 2020.
Series 15 - Joe McFadden
Joe McFadden was the second Holby City actor to win Strictly with partner Katya Jones. He may not have been a natural dancer at the start, but he certainly came out on top beating Alexandra Burke, Debbie McGee and Gemma Atkinson in the final. After Strictly he performed in the UK tour of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert.
Series 16 - Stacey Dooley
The journalist and broadcaster beat show favourite, Joe Sugg, with her dance partner Kevin Clifton. The couple had clearly fallen for each other while on the show as shortly after it was announced they were a couple.
Stacey went on to make two more documentaries and made appearances on other TV shows, including Glow Up and most recently presented DNA Family Secrets alongside Turi King, which helps people find out secrets about their families through DNA tests. Stacey and Kevin are also still together.
Series 17 - Kelvin Fletcher
Despite entering as a replacement for reality TV star Jamie Laing who injured his foot, former Emmerdale actor Kelvin stole the show and came out on top with his dance partner Oti Mabuse. Kelvin is a self-confessed 'petrol head' and has taken part in many motorsport races, including the British GT Championships.
Series 18 - Bill Bailey
Bill blew everyone's socks off and became the oldest contestant in Strictly history to take home the glitterball trophy. It was a big moment for his partner Oti Mabuse too, as their victory marked her second win.
Bill's back to doing what he loves best, which is making us laugh, as well as playing his guitar and spending lots of time outdoors.
Series 19 - Rose Ayling-Ellis
EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, who was the first ever deaf contestant to take part in Strictly, and her professional dancer Giovanni Pernice beat GBBO star John Whaite and Johannes Radebe for the Glitterball after a tense 2021 finale.
Rose, who plays Frankie on the BBC soap, was applauded by deaf communities over the world for raising awareness of sign language and how being deaf doesn't affect your ability to dance.
Series 20 - Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal
Wildlife cameraman and presenter Hamza Yassin won the 20th series of Strictly Come Dancing with his professional partner Jowita Przystal. A firm favourite due to his high energy, great enthusiasm and incredible lifts, he beat radio presenter and singer Fleur East, singer and actress Molly Rainford and TV presenter Helen Skelton to the Glitterball Trophy.
Series 21 - Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola
Former Coronation Street actress Ellie Leach was crowned the 2023 winner alongside her professional partner Vito Coppola. Ellie was in the final alongside Layton Williams and Bobby Brazier, and despite not topping the leaderboard during the final, the public voted for her to be crowned the 2023 winner of the Glitterball Trophy.
Strictly Come Dancing will return later in 2024.
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