Strictly Come Dancing fans were left distracted just minutes into the first live show of the new series, after the BBC hit returned with a dramatic new opening sequence.
After weeks of anticipation, the celebrities finally stepped onto the dance floor for the first time as they began their bid to lift the coveted Glitterball Trophy. But while viewers were excited to see this year's stars perform their first routines with their professional partners, something else quickly caught their attention.
New drone opening leaves viewers dizzy
The show opened with a dramatic new sequence which saw a drone camera fly from room to room, showing the celebrities training before following them as they made their way into the studio in one continuous sequence. The unusual opening left some viewers feeling 'dizzy', with several taking to social media to question the decision to change the show's familiar introduction.
One viewer wrote: "Oh gosh this new opener is spinning me out!! #Strictly" Another said: "Immediately hate #strictly already what the hell were those titles I'm gonna be sick they've taken all the whimsy away."
Mixed reactions from fans
A third posted: "If I wasn't dizzy I am now…let us see the titles and opening sequence more slowly please @bbcstrictly #Strictly." Someone else asked: "Why did they change the intro and why are they so far away in the intro? #Strictly"
However, not everyone was unhappy with the revamped opening, with some viewers welcoming the change. One fan said: "Loving the new titles of #Strictly!" Another wished the show's new presenting team well, writing: "Best of luck to @jojo_radebe @EmmaWillis and #joshwiddicombe for the first Live Show of the new era! #Strictly"
New presenting team and judging panel
Tonight the 2026 dancing couples have had their first chance to show what they can do in front of the judges and the Strictly audience, with a mixture of dances and songs lined up for the opening night. There has also been a major change at the helm of the show this year, with Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and professional dancer Johannes Radebe making their Strictly presenting debuts.
The trio have taken over presenting duties from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who previously hosted the BBC show together. Meanwhile, Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke have all returned to the judging panel to give their verdicts on the celebrities' first performances.
No elimination on opening night
There will be no elimination during tonight's show, meaning all 15 couples will make it through to next week. However, the judges' scores will be carried forward, with viewers then getting their first chance to vote for their favourites.
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturday at 6.15pm on BBC One.
