For 21 years, a familiar and reassuring voice has welcomed millions of viewers to the glittering world of Strictly Come Dancing. Now, the man behind that iconic announcement has been confirmed as the beloved BBC broadcaster, Alan Dedicoat.
The Unseen Star of the Ballroom
Since the show first graced BBC One screens in 2004, hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, Alan Dedicoat has been its constant vocal companion. While the 23rd series currently sees celebrities like Amber Davies and Lewis Cope battling for the Glitterball, Alan has been there through every paso doble and waltz, witnessing the show's triumphs and mishaps from the very beginning.
His association with the hit programme extends beyond the UK. Dedicoat is also the announcer for ABC's Dancing with the Stars, the American version of the format. Furthermore, fans will instantly recognise him as the legendary 'Voice of the Balls' for the National Lottery results draws, a role he performed for decades.
A Storied BBC Career
Alan Dedicoat's voice is a staple of British broadcasting. He spent 28 years at BBC Radio 2 as a continuity announcer and newsreader before departing in 2015. Reflecting on his long career, he fondly recalled his 15-year partnership with the late Sir Terry Wogan, describing him as "the greatest living Irishman" and highlighting years of constant laughter both on and off air.
In 2017, Dedicoat hinted at plans to share his wealth of showbiz anecdotes, promising an autobiography that would "name names" and reveal the funny happenings behind the scenes of the shows he has worked on.
A Voice That Defines Saturday Night
Alan Dedicoat's revelation underscores how integral behind-the-scenes talents are to the success of flagship television. His voice has become as synonymous with Strictly Come Dancing as the glitter and the scores, providing a consistent and comforting thread through 21 years of entertainment history. As the competition continues every weekend on BBC One, viewers can now put a famous face to the voice that has ushered in the magic for over two decades.
