Strictly Come Dancing is reportedly preparing another major format change for its upcoming Christmas special, bringing back six popular former contestants after the introduction of three new hosts sparked complaints.
According to The Sun, BBC bosses are planning to invite six of the show's most beloved stars back to the ballroom, following the success of an "alumni dance" at Blackpool last year. The move comes as a response to controversy surrounding the replacement of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman with Johannes Radebe, Josh Widdicombe and Emma Willis.
Returning Stars in the Frame
Denise Van Outen, Maisie Smith and Georgia May Foote are among the names reportedly in contention for the festive line-up. A source told The Sun: "Strictly love sprinkling some magic over their Christmas show – and what better way than bringing back some old favourites.
"They're currently casting for six previous stars to return to the dance floor.
"Loads of names are in their sights, with Denise Van Outen, Georgia May Foote and Maisie Smith all big names who could feature on the bookers' Christmas wish-lists.
"The plan would be that each of the returning celebs would perform a brand new festive-themed routine with a professional partner, as well as taking part in opening and closing group numbers."
Format and Precedent
The show is set to be a "mammoth" special, filmed in December before airing on December 25. The Christmas episode has a precedent for this format, last bringing back fan favourites in 2019, when Debbie McGee, Gemma Atkinson, Joe Sugg, Mark Wright, Chizzy Akudolu and Richard Arnold all returned for a festive special.
The news follows the elimination of Emmerdale star Lawrence Robb from the main show on November 1, after the first-ever three-couple dance-off. Lawrence and Jowita Przystal went up against Bethany Antonia and Nancy Xu, as well as Jaime Winstone and Carlos Gu.
Bethany and Nancy performed their Jive to I'm In Love With a Monster by Fifth Harmony, Jaime and Carlos performed their Salsa to Filthy/Gorgeous by Scissor Sisters, and Lawrence and Jowita performed their Tango to Ghostbusters by Ray Parker Jr. The judges voted to eliminate one couple rather than save their favourites.
Express.co.uk has contacted the BBC for comment.
