Are you ready to sparkle and shimmy? Strictly Come Dancing returns in 2025, and the BBC has officially confirmed when the glitterball gets going. Here’s everything you need to know about the Strictly 2025 launch date, lineup, judges, and key moments to watch.
When Does Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Begin?
- The launch show for Strictly Come Dancing 2025 airs on Saturday, 20 September 2025 on BBC One & iPlayer.
- The first live show follows one week later, starting on 27 September.
- The pre-recorded launch episode will reveal the celebrity–professional pairings and feature a group dance ahead of regular competition weeks.
The Lineup: Celebrities & Pros
- This year’s celebrity contestants include familiar faces and new names: Dani Dyer, Alex Kingston, George Clarke, Chris Robshaw, Vicky Pattison, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (aka “Nitro”), Ellie Goldstein, Balvinder Sopal, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, and more.
- Joining them on the dancefloor are two new professional dancers: Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon, who join the established pros returning this season.
Judges & Hosts
- Returning to the panel are Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke.
- The show will once again be hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Key Dates & Highlights to Mark in Your Calendar
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Launch show (celebrity/pro pairings revealed) | Sat 20 September 2025 |
| First live performance show | Sat 27 September 2025 |
| First results episode | Sunday, 5 October 2025 |
| Blackpool Week (Tower Ballroom) | Saturday 22 November 2025 |
| Grand Final | Saturday 20 December 2025 |
Why This Season is Worth the Wait
- The glitter and choreography are always on point, but this year’s lineup promises more diversity, fresh pairings, and first-time contestants in Strictly history.
- With Strictly Come Dancing 2025, the launch episode will carry that special BBC pre-recorded format, giving viewers an extra-special opening as pairings are revealed and group routines performed.
Bottom line: Strictly Come Dancing 2025 returns on Saturday 20 September 2025 with its launch show on BBC One & iPlayer, followed by live shows from 27 September. If you love celebrity dances, jaw-dropping routines, and that classic Saturday night sparkle, this season is going to delive
