The glitter, glamour, and gossip are back — Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is officially underway, and the ballroom is already buzzing with excitement. As the BBC’s flagship entertainment show waltzes into its 21st series, viewers across the UK are once again captivated by its dazzling routines, unexpected controversies, and the irresistible charm of its celebrity cast.
From emotional performances to fiery behind-the-scenes drama, this season has it all. Whether you’re a Strictly superfan or a casual Saturday night viewer, here’s everything you need to know about the latest Strictly Come Dancing news — from shock eliminations to romance rumours and trending highlights dominating UK social media.
A Star-Studded Line-Up for 2025
The Strictly Come Dancing 2025 cast is one of the most diverse and dynamic in recent years. The BBC revealed a line-up that perfectly balances household names with rising stars, ensuring broad appeal across generations.
Among this year’s standout contestants are television presenter AJ Odudu, Olympic gold medallist Tom Dean, EastEnders actress Danielle Harold, and pop sensation HRVY, returning for an all-stars twist. Joining them is Joe Westerman, the rugby league star known for his resilience and fan following — his participation follows a series of headlines that made him a trending topic across sports and entertainment pages (read more about Joe Westerman here).
BBC producers have clearly aimed for a mix of talent and personality, creating a cast that reflects modern Britain — confident, charismatic, and diverse.
Early Favourites and Standout Performances
It’s only the early weeks, but some couples have already captured the audience’s hearts. AJ Odudu, partnered with Giovanni Pernice, continues to impress judges with her fluid movement and natural stage presence. Meanwhile, Tom Dean’s disciplined approach, paired with the elegant Dianne Buswell, has brought a surprising athletic flair to the ballroom.
The season’s first perfect 10 came earlier than expected, when HRVY’s fiery samba electrified the dancefloor. Social media erupted with praise, pushing the performance to the top of UK Twitter trends.
However, not everyone has had an easy start. A few contestants have struggled with the demanding rehearsals. The tension is rising — and fans love it. Strictly thrives on its emotional rollercoaster, and this year, it’s delivering more than ever.
Behind the Glitter: Backstage Gossip and Romantic Rumours
Of course, Strictly Come Dancing wouldn’t be Strictly without a healthy dose of backstage buzz. This year’s biggest whisper surrounds the on-screen chemistry between HRVY and actress Bonnie Blue, who’s no stranger to online attention thanks to her thriving social media presence (discover more about Bonnie Blue here).
While the two have denied anything beyond friendship, eagle-eyed fans claim their body language tells a different story. The “Strictly curse” — known for sparking unexpected relationships — has been a long-standing part of the show’s mythology. Each year, tabloids watch for the next headline-grabbing pairing.
Elsewhere, fans have been discussing the off-screen friendship between Pete Wicks — known for his appearances on TOWIE and rumoured relationship updates (read more on Pete Wicks’ girlfriend here) — and Giovanni Pernice. Their social media banter has only fuelled curiosity, showing how Strictly continues to blur the lines between dance show and celebrity reality TV.
Judges in the Spotlight: New Faces and Familiar Critiques
This year’s judging panel blends familiar expertise with a touch of freshness. Shirley Ballas and Craig Revel Horwood return, bringing their signature balance of elegance and sharp critique. However, a major talking point has been the addition of Oti Mabuse, who joined the panel full-time after guest appearances in previous seasons.
Oti’s inclusion has received widespread praise from fans and former contestants alike. Her deep understanding of choreography and ability to connect emotionally with dancers have made her a favourite.
Craig, meanwhile, remains as sharp-tongued as ever. His “fab-u-lous” catchphrases continue to dominate social media memes, and his no-nonsense approach ensures that standards remain sky-high.
Strictly’s Ratings Triumph: The Show Still Rules Saturday Nights
Despite the rise of streaming platforms and shifting viewing habits, Strictly Come Dancing continues to dominate Saturday night television in the UK. According to BARB data, the opening show of the 2025 season drew 9.6 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched entertainment programmes of the year so far.
BBC executives credit the show’s success to its timeless mix of glamour, emotion, and relatability. Strictly appeals to families, young viewers, and older fans alike — a rare feat in today’s fragmented TV landscape.
Moreover, its social media presence has become a powerful engagement tool. The official Strictly TikTok page recently surpassed one million followers, thanks to exclusive behind-the-scenes clips and trending dance challenges.
Fashion, Glamour, and the Return of Ballroom Grandeur
One of Strictly Come Dancing’s enduring attractions is its fashion. This season’s wardrobe department has outdone itself, showcasing dazzling sequins, feathered gowns, and vibrant Latin costumes inspired by vintage Hollywood and modern couture.
Fans particularly adored the dramatic ballroom outfit worn by Danielle Harold in week two, designed by the same creative team who have previously worked with icons like Frankie Dettori — the legendary jockey whose larger-than-life persona continues to inspire showbiz style (learn more about Frankie Dettori’s legacy and net worth here).
Strictly’s visual flair is as integral to its charm as the dancing itself. Each week feels like a live fashion show, blending elegance with theatrical spectacle.
Strictly and Reality TV Crossovers: The Celebrity Factor
This year, the BBC appears to have embraced the crossover between Strictly and other reality franchises. Several contestants have prior connections to popular British shows such as I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! — a series that continues to attract millions every year (read about the latest I’m A Celebrity season here).
The overlap between these worlds has helped Strictly attract a younger demographic, many of whom follow reality TV personalities online. By mixing sports icons, TV presenters, and digital influencers, Strictly 2025 has created a melting pot of pop culture relevance.
Social Media Buzz: Fans Drive the Conversation
In the age of social media, Strictly Come Dancing has evolved from a weekly TV event into a 24/7 online conversation. Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok explode with commentary every Saturday night, as fans dissect routines, judge scores, and behind-the-scenes footage.
Popular Strictly hashtags such as #Strictly2025 and #TeamGiovanni trend almost instantly after each live show. The programme’s official BBC accounts amplify engagement with polls, backstage interviews, and teaser clips, keeping viewers hooked between episodes.
This digital-first approach mirrors strategies seen across global entertainment — similar to how European football fixtures, like the Barcelona vs PSG 2025 Champions League thriller, drive online buzz long before and after the matches themselves.
Strictly’s Impact on UK Culture
Few TV shows in Britain have maintained cultural relevance like Strictly Come Dancing. It has inspired countless amateur dancers, boosted the careers of professional choreographers, and even influenced school dance programmes.
The show’s emphasis on inclusivity has also been widely celebrated. In recent years, Strictly has featured same-sex partnerships, diverse body types, and contestants with disabilities — breaking new ground for representation in mainstream British entertainment.
Moreover, Strictly’s economic footprint is significant. From costume designers to lighting crews, the show supports hundreds of UK creative jobs each season, contributing millions to the local arts economy.
Upcoming Week: What to Expect
As the competition heats up, viewers can expect more dramatic storylines and emotional performances. Rumours suggest a “movie night” theme is on the horizon, with contestants preparing cinematic routines inspired by British film classics.
Meanwhile, tension in the rehearsal rooms is mounting. Reports from the BBC’s It Takes Two spin-off indicate that one partnership may be on the verge of breaking down due to creative differences. Fans are already speculating about who might face the dreaded dance-off next.
FAQs: Strictly Come Dancing 2025
1. Who is leading the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 leaderboard?
As of mid-October, AJ Odudu and Giovanni Pernice lead the scoreboard with an impressive average of 36 points per performance.
2. When does the Strictly 2025 final take place?
The grand final is expected to air in mid-December 2025, live from Elstree Studios.
3. Who are the judges on Strictly Come Dancing this year?
Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and new addition Oti Mabuse form the judging panel for 2025.
4. Has anyone been eliminated so far?
Yes, two couples have already left the competition following the first two public votes. The results show continues to draw strong viewership.
5. Can I vote for my favourite Strictly couple online?
Yes. Viewers can vote via the official BBC website or the BBC One app during live shows.
Final Thoughts
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 proves that even after two decades, the BBC’s crown jewel continues to shine. Its blend of entertainment, emotion, and elegance captures something uniquely British — a shared joy in creativity, competition, and connection.
As celebrities twirl, dip, and dazzle under the spotlight, Strictly reminds us why live television still matters. It’s not just a dance show; it’s a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the power of performance to bring people together on cold British evenings.
Whether you’re rooting for AJ and Giovanni or tuning in for the gossip, one thing’s certain — Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is set to be another unforgettable chapter in British TV history.
