Strictly Come Dancing 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Series 23

The Return of Britain’s Beloved Dance Show

Strictly Come Dancing, Britain’s premier dance contest show where celebrities partner with professional dancers, holds the Guinness World Record for being the world’s most successful reality television format. The show is expected to return for its twenty-third series with a launch show on 20 September 2025 on BBC One, with live shows beginning a week later on 27 September.

Judges and Hosts

The BBC has confirmed that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will return as hosts for the new season, alongside the judging panel consisting of head judge Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton du Beke. The announcement was particularly special as Tess and Claudia were recently awarded MBEs.

Celebrity Line-up

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, aka Nitro, was announced as the first contestant for Strictly 2025. The athlete expressed his excitement, stating: “I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly family this series and I’m ready to give it all I’ve got. I’ll be bringing tons of energy to light up the dance floor. Let’s hope I’m as quick picking up the routines as I am on the track.”

Other confirmed celebrities include reality TV star Dani Dyer, actor Alex Kingston, and Dutch footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. The show is making history this year with Ellie Goldstein becoming the first person with Down syndrome and La Voix the first drag star to take to its glittering dancefloor.

Professional Dancers

The BBC has confirmed two new professional dancers will join the cast for 2025: Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon. Spanish dancer Gorka Marquez will not be partnered with a celebrity this season as he will be judging on Bailando Con Las Estrellas, the Spanish version of Strictly, though he will still participate in group numbers and return for the final weeks.

Looking Ahead

The reality series has been going strong for more than two decades, with celebrities competing for the coveted glitterball trophy. While an official release date is yet to be confirmed, the show will return in the Autumn on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, maintaining its traditional September scheduling.