Strictly Come Dancing 2024 – a milestone series that marked two decades of dazzling dance, sartorial splendour, and the sheer joy of watching celebrities transform into ballroom behemoths. From its launch night glitz to the emotional Grand Final, the 22nd series of the nation’s favourite dance competition captivated millions, reaffirming its status as a cornerstone of British television. As the programme celebrated its 20th birthday, the pressure was on to deliver a spectacle worthy of the occasion, and thankfully, it did not disappoint, weaving a narrative rich with surprising talent, poignant moments, and the unavoidable buzz that only Strictly can generate.
A Star-Studded Line-Up
The anticipation for the 2024 line-up was palpable, with viewers eagerly speculating who would dare to don the sequins and face the formidable judging panel. The BBC, keen to mark the 20th anniversary with a diverse and engaging cast, unveiled a fascinating mix of personalities, each promising a unique journey on the hallowed dancefloor. Among those who stepped into the spotlight were comedian Chris McCausland, making history as the show’s first blind contestant; JLS singer and TV presenter JB Gill, whose boyband background hinted at natural rhythm; and Olympic athlete Montell Douglas, known to many as ‘Fire’ from Gladiators, bringing a competitive edge.
The cast was further bolstered by familiar faces from across the entertainment spectrum. From the dramatic depths of Albert Square, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick joined the ranks, fresh off his Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special 2023 win, setting high expectations. Soap opera fans also welcomed Coronation Street‘s Shayne Ward, while the world of comedy was represented by actress Sarah Hadland of Miranda and Horrible Histories fame. Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri brought a touch of reality TV glamour, and opera singer Wynne Evans, a beloved voice on BBC Radio Wales, promised a melodic presence. The line-up was completed by media medic Dr Punam Krishan, Olympic swimmer Tom Dean, former footballer Paul Merson, retired hockey player and pundit Sam Quek, and veteran TV presenter Nick Knowles, ensuring a wide appeal and a fascinating blend of backgrounds.
Crucially, the professional dancer line-up for 2024 was equally under scrutiny, particularly after some notable changes. While familiar and much-loved faces like Dianne Buswell, Vito Coppola, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Márquez, Johannes Radebe, Jowita Przystał, Michelle Tsiakkas, Lauren Oakley, Carlos Gu, and Nancy Xu returned, the significant absences of Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima sparked considerable discussion. The BBC addressed these changes by implementing enhanced safeguarding measures, including production team members present at all rehearsals and two new welfare producers, a move that reassured many viewers and demonstrated the show’s commitment to contestant well-being. Adding to the excitement was the much-anticipated return of Aljaž Škorjanec after a two-year break, and the truly heartwarming comeback of Amy Dowden following her cancer treatment, a moment celebrated with a special group dance that brought tears to many an eye.
The pairings on launch night are always a moment of collective gasp and delight, and 2024 delivered some truly intriguing combinations. Chris McCausland was paired with the ever-inventive Dianne Buswell, a partnership that quickly became a fan favourite. JB Gill found a dynamic match in Amy Dowden (who was later replaced by Lauren Oakley due to injury), while Tasha Ghouri’s journey began with the graceful Aljaž Škorjanec. Each pairing sparked immediate discussions on social media, with fans dissecting potential chemistry, dance styles, and early predictions for Glitterball glory.
The Journey to the Ballroom
The early weeks of Strictly Come Dancing 2024 set the tone for an unpredictable and thoroughly entertaining series. Week one saw the celebrities take their inaugural steps, a mix of nervous energy and raw potential. While some, like Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec with their impressive Cha-cha-cha, immediately showcased a natural flair, others embraced the “journey” narrative from the outset. Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell, despite initial low scores, quickly endeared themselves to the public with their infectious enthusiasm and ground-breaking performances that often incorporated innovative ways for Chris to learn and perform without sight.
As the series progressed, the celebrities’ dedication in the training room began to bear fruit, leading to visible improvements and some truly standout routines. Week after week, viewers witnessed incredible transformations. Jamie Borthwick, initially appearing as a dark horse, steadily climbed the leaderboard with consistently strong performances alongside Michelle Tsiakkas. Sarah Hadland, paired with the charismatic Vito Coppola, brought a delightful blend of comedy and elegance to her dances, surprising many with her hidden talents.
The narratives of growth and resilience became central to the series. Dr Punam Krishan and Paul Merson, while not always topping the leaderboard, embodied the spirit of Strictly, bravely stepping outside their comfort zones and winning over hearts with their sheer effort. Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in their faster Latin routines, demonstrating a dedication to mastering the technical challenges of ballroom. Meanwhile, Wynne Evans, with Katya Jones, proved to be a constant source of entertainment, his theatricality shining through in every performance, even amidst early criticisms and later, personal challenges. The public’s affection for these developing dancers was a significant factor, proving that improvement and personality often trump perfection in the early stages.
Blackpool’s Grand Return
Blackpool Week, a beloved tradition and a pivotal moment in any Strictly series, returned in 2024 with its usual crescendo of excitement and sparkle. The iconic Tower Ballroom, with its unique atmosphere and sprung dancefloor, provides a special kind of magic, and the celebrities and professionals certainly rose to the occasion. The sheer scale of the venue often inspires some of the most memorable and ambitious routines of the season.
In 2024, Blackpool delivered in spades. Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec performed a mesmerising routine that truly captured the grandeur of the ballroom, earning high praise from the judges. Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola continued their impressive run with a performance that cemented their place as serious contenders. Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell once again pushed boundaries, showcasing an incredible partnership that defied expectations and left the audience in awe. The performances under the famous chandeliers often serve as a litmus test for who truly has the stamina and performance quality to go all the way, and the 2024 cohort certainly proved their mettle in this glittering spectacle. The palpable energy from the live audience in Blackpool, often seen trending across social media, added an extra layer of excitement to what is always a highlight of the Strictly calendar.
Dramatic Twists and Turns
No Strictly series is without its share of drama, and 2024 was no exception, providing moments of unexpected twists, emotional exits, and the occasional dose of controversy that keeps the nation talking. The dreaded dance-off claimed its victims weekly, leading to emotional farewells for popular celebrities. Early departures like Olympic swimmer Tom Dean and singer Toyah Willcox, while sad for their fans, are an inevitable part of the competition, opening the door for others to shine. Nick Knowles also had an early exit, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the public vote.
However, it was the controversies swirling around opera singer Wynne Evans and his professional partner Katya Jones that truly captured headlines and sparked intense debate across traditional and social media platforms. Reports of “inappropriate behaviour” during the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour launch and a “silly inside joke” between the pair during a live show led to apologies and significant public discussion. The independent’s reporting on Wynne Evans being “dropped by BBC after ‘inappropriate’ Strictly behaviour” illustrated the intense scrutiny that celebrities face, even after their series run concludes. This incident, along with earlier allegations of bullying against professional dancers Giovanni Pernice (who did not participate in the 2024 series) and Graziano di Prima (who was dropped from the 2024 series for an isolated incident with Zara McDermott), highlighted the ongoing importance of welfare and conduct within the show’s demanding environment. While these issues cast a shadow, the show and its participants largely navigated them with grace, with head judge Shirley Ballas herself affirming the “magical” quality of the series despite the behind-the-scenes challenges.
Injuries, a perpetual concern in a show demanding such physical exertion, also played a part. The temporary withdrawal of Amy Dowden, while thankfully not due to a dance injury, highlighted the vulnerabilities within the professional cast and the show’s readiness to adapt, with Lauren Oakley stepping in seamlessly. These moments of adversity often bring out the best in the remaining contestants and professionals, fostering a sense of camaraderie and resilience that viewers deeply connect with.
Judging the Glitterball Hopefuls
The iconic judging panel of Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke returned for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, bringing their unique blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and acerbic wit. Head Judge Shirley Ballas, the “Queen of Latin,” continued to provide insightful technical critiques, often offering profound observations on musicality and footwork. Her passionate responses and occasional tears were a testament to the emotional investment she brings to every performance.
Motsi Mabuse, with her infectious energy and joyous pronouncements, remained the panel’s cheerleader, consistently celebrating effort and improvement, often providing the much-needed emotional lift for contestants. Craig Revel Horwood, the king of the cutting remark and the raised eyebrow, delivered his “Dah-ling!” and “A-MAZ-ing!” pronouncements, keeping dancers on their toes and providing the quintessential Strictly villainy that viewers secretly adore. His strict adherence to technique ensures the high standards of the competition. Anton Du Beke, having transitioned seamlessly from beloved professional dancer to insightful judge, offered a unique perspective, combining technical understanding with empathy for the celebrity journey, often providing a refreshing and encouraging voice.
The interplay between the judges is a vital part of the Strictly appeal, and 2024 saw plenty of memorable moments. Debates over scores, disagreements on performance quality, and the occasional good-natured banter kept the judging segment lively and engaging. The judges’ feedback, whether harsh or effusive, heavily influenced public perception and often sparked intense discussion on social media, with fans frequently aligning with or vehemently disagreeing with particular critiques. The scores, of course, were only half the battle, as the public vote continued to be the ultimate decider, leading to some surprising dance-offs and unexpected eliminations that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
The Road to the Grand Final
As the weeks dwindled, the competition intensified, and the contenders for the Glitterball trophy began to emerge. The semi-final was a particularly nail-biting affair in Strictly Come Dancing 2024, with each remaining couple performing two high-stakes routines, pushing their technical and performance boundaries to the absolute limit. This crucial stage saw dramatic improvements from all the remaining celebrities, making the judges’ decisions and the public vote even more challenging.
The narrative arcs of the finalists were particularly compelling. Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell defied all expectations, their unwavering commitment and Dianne’s ingenious choreography leading them to the final as genuine contenders, winning over hearts with every paso doble and quickstep. JB Gill, partnered first with Amy Dowden and then seamlessly with Lauren Oakley, consistently delivered strong performances, showcasing a natural talent and a powerful stage presence that made him a formidable finalist. Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola, with their blend of elegance and joyful abandon, carved out a unique space, surprising many with their consistent excellence. Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec, often at the top of the leaderboard, demonstrated incredible artistry and technical precision, proving themselves to be exquisite dancers capable of breathtaking routines. Each couple had a distinct journey, making the final showdown a clash of varied talents and popular support.
The Grand Final: A Sparkling Showdown
The Grand Final of Strictly Come Dancing 2024, broadcast live on December 14th, was a glittering culmination of months of dedication, sweat, and tears. The remaining four couples—Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell, JB Gill and Lauren Oakley, Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola, and Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec—each performed three dances: a favourite routine, the judges’ choice, and a showdance designed to encapsulate their entire Strictly journey.
The tension in the ballroom was palpable as each couple laid it all on the line. The showdances were particularly anticipated, offering a final opportunity for the celebrities to express themselves freely and emotionally. Chris and Dianne’s showdance, a poignant and visually imaginative piece, was a testament to their unique partnership and brought the audience to its feet. JB and Lauren delivered powerful and intricate choreography, showcasing JB’s growth as a dancer. Sarah and Vito’s performance was a delightful blend of their charming dynamic and refined technique, while Tasha and Aljaž delivered a technically brilliant and emotionally resonant routine that highlighted their exceptional skill.
The judges, though offering scores, ultimately took a backseat as the power shifted entirely to the voting public. After a nail-biting wait, filled with spectacular group numbers from the professional dancers and musical performances, the moment of truth arrived. In a truly historic win, Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell were crowned the champions of Strictly Come Dancing 2024, lifting the coveted Glitterball trophy. Their victory was met with an outpouring of emotion from the audience and viewers at home, widely seen as a triumph of spirit, hard work, and the transformative power of dance. Chris’s journey from being the show’s first blind contestant to lifting the trophy resonated deeply, making their win one of the most heartwarming and memorable in Strictly history.
Beyond the Ballroom: The Live Tour and Lasting Impact
While the television series concluded with a bang, the magic of Strictly Come Dancing 2024 extended beyond the small screen. The hugely popular Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2025 was quickly announced, bringing the glitz and glamour to arenas across the UK in January and February. Featuring many of the celebrities and professional dancers from the 2024 series, alongside the beloved judging panel of Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood, and hosted by Janette Manrara, the tour allowed thousands more fans to experience the energy and excitement of Strictly live.
For Chris McCausland, while his individual stand-up tour commitments prevented him from joining the main Strictly Live Tour, the desire for him and Dianne to reunite for future projects was a strong fan theory, with Dianne herself teasing future collaborations. This underscores the lasting connections formed on the show and the ongoing public interest in the partnerships that capture the nation’s hearts.
The 2024 series, marking the show’s 20th anniversary, cemented its place not just as a Saturday night staple, but as a cultural institution. It continued to break down barriers, celebrated diversity, and reminded everyone of the joy and artistry that dance can bring. The series also maintained its status as the most-watched programme on Saturday nights, a testament to its enduring appeal despite slight shifts in overall viewing figures. From the controversies that sparked conversation to the inspiring journeys that brought tears to our eyes, Strictly Come Dancing 2024 was a truly golden anniversary, reminding us why, year after year, we all keep dancing.
FAQs
Who won Strictly Come Dancing 2024?
Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell were crowned the champions of Strictly Come Dancing 2024, marking a historic win for the show’s first blind contestant.
When did Strictly Come Dancing 2024 start and end?
Strictly Come Dancing 2024 typically launched in late September and concluded with its Grand Final in mid-December.
Who were the celebrity contestants in Strictly Come Dancing 2024?
The celebrity line-up for 2024 included comedian Chris McCausland, JLS singer JB Gill, Olympic athlete Montell Douglas, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, Coronation Street‘s Shayne Ward, actress Sarah Hadland, Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri, opera singer Wynne Evans, media medic Dr Punam Krishan, Olympic swimmer Tom Dean, former footballer Paul Merson, retired hockey player Sam Quek, and TV presenter Nick Knowles.
Which professional dancers returned for Strictly Come Dancing 2024?
Familiar professional dancers such as Dianne Buswell, Vito Coppola, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Márquez, Johannes Radebe, Jowita Przystał, Michelle Tsiakkas, Lauren Oakley, Carlos Gu, and Nancy Xu returned. Aljaž Škorjanec also made a welcome return, and Amy Dowden made a heartwarming comeback after her cancer treatment.
Were there any major changes to the professional dancer line-up in 2024?
Yes, Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima did not participate in the 2024 series, leading to discussions about professional dancer welfare and conduct.
Who were the judges on Strictly Come Dancing 2024?
The judging panel remained the same, featuring Head Judge Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke.
What were some of the biggest moments from Blackpool Week 2024?
Blackpool Week always delivers iconic performances. In 2024, memorable routines included those from Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec, Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola, and Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell, all performing under the grandeur of the Tower Ballroom.
Was the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour happening in 2025?
Yes, the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2025 was announced and took place in arenas across the UK in January and February, featuring many of the 2024 series’ celebrities and professionals.
Did Chris McCausland join the Strictly Live Tour?
Due to prior commitments with his stand-up tour, Chris McCausland was unable to join the main Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2025.
Final Thought
Strictly Come Dancing 2024 wasn’t just a television series; it was a testament to the power of perseverance, the beauty of human connection, and the sheer exhilaration of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. As the Glitterball found its rightful home, the series left an indelible mark, proving that two decades on, the show still can surprise, inspire, and unite the nation in a celebration of dance.
To read more, Click here
