Strictly Come Dancing confirms it WON'T be doing one huge tradition this year

Virgin Radio

4 Aug 2021, 12:43

Strictly will be back on our screens quicker than you can say 'foxtrot', but this year there's going to be one big change in store. And that's saying goodbye to the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

Executive producer Sarah James told The Mirror: "We're so thrilled that Strictly will be returning for a full-length series this year and know how much viewers are looking forward to getting their full Strictly fix and seeing the return of much-loved specials.

"We are all so sad that we won't be able to get to Blackpool this year but can't wait to be back dancing at the one and only Blackpool Tower Ballroom in the future."

Shirley Ballas explained on ITV's Loose Women: "We're hoping that there will be an audience, there will be no Blackpool due to the fact that backstage there is not enough changing facilities with good social distancing."

Celebs thought to be taking part in the upcoming sequin fest include Gordon Ramsay's daughter and TikToker Matilda and former footballer Peter Crouch - but the first three celebrity contestants will be revealed tonight on The One Show.

The show tweeted: "We are so ready to reveal the #Strictly class of 2021! Meet our first three celebrities, tonight 7pm @BBCTheOneShow."

Ballas said that 'of all panels, you have never seen such celebrities as you are going to see on this particular show'.

"But we will still have everything at Elstree and I'm sure she's (Sarah James) got lots of other little delights up her sleeve..."