Launch Show

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman return to the ballroom for the launch of Strictly Come Dancing 2021. Dusting off their paddles are returning judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse, alongside the newest addition to the panel, Strictly's longest-serving professional dancer Anton Du Beke.

Fifteen new celebrities are paired with professional partners before taking to the floor for the first time in a huge group number. There are two routines from the Strictly professionals, one of which introduces our four brand new dancers. Not to be missed are the return of reigning champion Bill Bailey and a spectacular music performance from Anne Marie. It’s time to start dancing!