BBC makes exciting Strictly Come Dancing update on 20th anniversary - details

Virgin Radio

15 May 2024, 09:59

Strictly Come Dancing 2024 might still be a few months off but the BBC have confirmed they’ll be celebrating 20 years of the ballroom series with a new one-off special. 

The anniversary show promises a “journey through 20 years of unforgettable entertainment featuring iconic performances and plenty of heart-warming interviews with past celebrity stars, professional dancers, and judges.”

The exciting news comes on the exact 20th anniversary of Strictly Come Dancing’s first episode, with viewers tuning in on the evening of Saturday 15th May 2004.  

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Strictly is also having a rather good time at the moment, having just picked up the TV BAFTA Award for Best Entertainment on Sunday (12th May). This new special will dive into the competition becoming not just a national treasure, but also a global phenomenon too, with it being licensed to 61 territories across the world. 

As reported by the BBC, Strictly is the broadcaster’s biggest Entertainment title, with an average of 9.0 million viewers turning into the main show. 

It’s not yet known what else will be in store for the Strictly Come Dancing anniversary special, including the who the interviewees will be and when it will be available to watch, but given September will welcome in the 22nd series of the beloved competition, it’s likely this tribute show will feature later this year. 

Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC, said in a statement: “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.”

Suzy Lamb, Managing Director, BBC Studios Entertainment, added: “From glittering Ballroom numbers to high-energy Latin routines, the show continues to push the boundaries of dance and entertainment and we want viewers to join us in raising a toast to 20 years of sparkle and shine in the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom.”

While there are still a few months to wait before we find out who will be hitting the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom this year, professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova did reveal which member of the royal family would love to compete one day.

The super popular BBC series has always had some royal fans, including Queen Camilla, but has never featured a member of the monarchy on the dance floor - instead opting for soap stars, singers and TV personalities.

Nadiya has revealed that hardworking royal Princess Anne wants to be the first, in a new chat with The Sun. 

“I met her at a ballet event,” the choreographer explained. “She is a Strictly fan and she wants to go on the show — she told me.”

“I think she would be good – there’s a lot of personality there, isn’t there?,” she added. 

The Strictly Come Dancing 20th Anniversary special will air later this year.