The new presenting team for Strictly Come Dancing, Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh Widdecombe, feature in a fresh trailer for the upcoming series, sharing the screen with professional dancers and the judging panel.
The promotional clip for the BBC’s flagship entertainment show sees the professionals and judges dancing together, with Craig Revel Horwood smashing a disco ball during a performance set to a cover of Peter Gabriel’s Sledgehammer. The action unfolds on a set decorated with vintage cars and other props before taking a Latin turn, culminating in a light flash as Radebe, Willis and Widdecombe emerge from an illuminated frame.
Launch Show to Feature New Pairing Format
Viewers will see the full routine from the trailer during Strictly’s launch show, which introduces a new way of pairing couples. Each celebrity and dancer will learn who their partner is in front of the studio audience through three specially-choreographed group dance routines.
The launch show will also offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse at preparations and rehearsals, including an appearance by last year’s champion, former England footballer Karen Carney, who will perform a jive with her professional partner from the previous series, Carlos Gu.
New Professionals and Confirmed Celebrities
Strictly has also announced five new professional dancers joining the show this year: Aleksandra Isaeva, Cristian Priori, Lethabo Monametsi, Maddie Ingoldsby and Mark Karmalita. They will make their debut in the opening routine alongside the 14 returning professionals.
Celebrity contestants confirmed for the new series include former Love Island winner Dani Dyer-Bowen, actress Melanie Walters, former England footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, and Australian singer Delta Goodrem. Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke will also return.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 7.25pm on Saturday September 19, airing every weekend until Christmas.
