Strictly Come Dancing has announced that four former finalists will return to the ballroom for a special group dance during this year's Blackpool specials, airing on 22 and 23 November. Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams will join the show's professional dancers for a routine celebrating their most iconic moments on the dance floor.
The performance will take place in the famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom and will feature elements of Jay and Ashley's Jives, Danny's Samba, and Layton's Quickstep. Jay McGuiness won the series in 2015, while Danny Mac and Ashley Roberts were finalists in 2016 and 2018 respectively, and Layton Williams reached the final in 2023. All four previously danced in Blackpool during their respective series.
The routine, choreographed by Jason Gilkinson, will air during the Sunday results show. The Saturday live show will open with a performance from Steps, accompanied by the professionals, celebrities and judges. Lewis Capaldi will also perform on the Sunday show with the Strictly Professionals.
Speaking about their return, Ashley Roberts said: “I’m so excited and grateful to be back on the shiny floor in Blackpool again. Nearly a decade later, let’s see if these jive legs can still do their thing!” Danny Mac added: “Dancing in Blackpool was an absolute highlight of my time on Strictly. To be heading back up to The Tower Ballroom once again is as thrilling as it is terrifying.”
Jay McGuiness commented: “I feel extremely lucky to be part of the Strictly alumni that are going to shake our booties again.” Layton Williams said: “I'm absolutely buzzing to be back on THE most iconic dance floor there is. Blackpool brings back so many fab memories.”
This weekend, the eight remaining couples will compete for a place in Blackpool. The episodes will also feature a guest performance from Olly Murs and a collaboration between the Strictly Professionals and dance troupe Diversity.
