Strictly Come Dancing returned for Icons Week on Saturday night, with celebrities and their dance partners honouring legendary names from Aretha Franklin and David Bowie to James Brown and Elton John. Minutes into the live show, hosted by Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe, fans were left "crying" by the judges' entrance.
Judges Dazzle in Themed Costumes
The presenters welcomed viewers before introducing judges Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke, who surprised fans by dressing to match the theme. While Shirley appeared as Lady Gaga and Motsi as Beyonce, it was Craig and Anton who drew the most attention, wearing bucket hats, dark glasses and parkas as a tribute to Oasis stars Liam and Noel Gallagher.
Their appearance prompted an immediate reaction on X, formerly Twitter. One fan wrote: "Anton and Craig. My god! Who’d have thought it. Liam and Noel Gallagher on #Strictly." Another posted: "Craig and Anton dressed as the Gallagher brothers is killing me #strictly." A third commented: "CACKLING at craig and anton as oasis." Another said: "CRAIG AND ANTON AS LIAM AND NOEL GALLAGHER?! I am absolutely crying." A fifth added: "Nearly spat my drink out when I saw Craig and anton come on out there."
Delta Goodrem Withdraws with Injury
The show then opened with John Nellis and Katya taking to the dance floor, but one star was missing this week. Delta Goodrem was forced to withdraw with a rib injury, though she and dance partner Kai Widdrington received a pass through to next week.
"I’m absolutely gutted that a rib injury means I won’t be able to dance on Strictly this week. I’ve been loving every second of this experience, so having to sit this one out is heartbreaking - especially after the high of Saturday night," Delta said in a statement. "I cannot tell you how much I love being a part of this magical show. I’m going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully I’ll be back on that dancefloor very soon. Thank you so much to everyone for all the love and support," she added.
Madonna Tribute and Results Show Plans
Madonna and her eras will be celebrated during the results show on Sunday, October 18, with a special routine from the professional dancers. Singer Belles will also be in the studio covering Dolly Parton's Jolene as a tribute to the late singer, who she duetted with earlier this year.
Last weekend's dance off saw Gavin & Stacey star Melanie Walters and her pro partner Aljaz Skorjanec become the second couple eliminated from the contest. Strictly Come Dancing airs on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
