The twenty-second series of the beloved British dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing, graced our screens from September 14th to December 14th, 2024, captivating audiences once again with its dazzling costumes, heartwarming stories, and breathtaking performances. This year held extra significance as the show celebrated its twentieth anniversary with a special episode, adding an extra layer of nostalgia and excitement to the season. Hosted by the ever-charming duo Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, with the discerning judging panel of Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood offering their expertise and often colourful critiques, Strictly 2024 delivered another unforgettable chapter in its storied history.
The Sparkling Line-Up: Celebrities Stepping onto the Ballroom Floor
A fresh batch of celebrities, hailing from various corners of the entertainment and sports world, bravely took on the challenge of learning ballroom and Latin dances. The class of 2024 was a diverse and engaging group, each bringing their unique personality and journey to the dance floor. Here’s a look at the celebrities who participated:
Tom Dean MBE: Olympic swimmer, trading the pool for the ballroom.
Toyah Willcox: Singer, actress, and television presenter, bringing her vibrant energy.
Nick Knowles: Television presenter, known for DIY SOS, tackling a different kind of construction.
Paul Merson: Former England footballer and pundit, hoping his fancy footwork translated.
Dr. Punam Krishan: Morning Live doctor and author, bringing a dose of intellect and grace.
Sam Quek MBE: Olympic field hockey player and television presenter, aiming for gold on the dance floor.
Shayne Ward: Singer and actor, best known for his X Factor win and Coronation Street role.
Wynne Evans: Opera singer and BBC Radio Wales presenter, hitting high notes both vocally and physically.
Jamie Borthwick: EastEnders actor, swapping the soap opera for sequins.
Montell Douglas: Olympic sprinter, bobsledder, and Gladiators star (as Fire), bringing her competitive spirit.
Pete Wicks: Television personality, known for The Only Way Is Essex, stepping into a new reality.
Tasha Ghouri: Love Island finalist and model, showcasing her dance training.
JB Gill: JLS singer and television presenter, returning to the Strictly ballroom after a Christmas special win.
Sarah Hadland: Stage and screen actress, best known for Miranda, bringing her comedic timing and talent.
Chris McCausland: Stand-up comedian and actor, making history as the show’s first blind contestant.
This eclectic mix of personalities ensured a season filled with humour, determination, and unexpected talent.
The Guiding Lights: The Professional Dancers
The celebrities were expertly guided by a stellar line-up of professional dancers, each bringing their skill, patience, and choreography prowess to the partnership. The 2024 series saw the return of many familiar faces, including:
Dianne Buswell
Nadiya Bychkova
Amy Dowden (returning after a year away due to cancer treatment, a truly heartwarming moment)
Karen Hauer
Katya Jones
Johannes Radebe
Kai Widdrington
Jowita Przystał
Carlos Gu
Nikita Kuzmin
Nancy Xu
Neil Jones
Lauren Oakley (stepping in for Amy Dowden later in the series due to injury)
Luba Mushtuk
Michelle Tsiakkas
Aljaž Škorjanec (returning to the show after a hiatus)
Vito Coppola
These talented professionals not only taught the celebrities the intricate steps of each dance but also provided unwavering support and encouragement throughout the demanding competition. The partnerships formed were often a highlight of the show, showcasing genuine camaraderie and shared passion for dance.
The Journey Through the Weeks: From First Steps to Blackpool Magic
The Strictly journey is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with initial nerves, gradual improvement, and the pressure of performing live each week. The couples tackled a variety of ballroom and Latin dances, from the elegant Waltz and Foxtrot to the energetic Cha-cha-cha and Jive. Each week brought new challenges, themed nights (like Movie Week and Halloween Week), and the dreaded dance-off, where couples had to fight for their place in the competition.
A significant milestone in the Strictly calendar is Blackpool Week, held in the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom. This special episode is a testament to the grandeur of ballroom dancing and often features spectacular routines and a heightened sense of occasion. In 2024, the Blackpool episode aired on November 16th, showcasing the remaining couples on the legendary dance floor.
The Grand Finale: Crowning the Champions
After weeks of hard work, dazzling performances, and emotional farewells, the competition culminated in a grand final on December 14th, 2024. The remaining couples performed their favourite dances from the series, as well as a Judges’ Choice and a Showdance, all vying for the coveted Glitterball trophy.
In a heartwarming and unexpected victory, Chris McCausland and his professional partner Dianne Buswell were crowned the champions of Strictly Come Dancing 2024. Their journey was particularly inspiring, with Chris making history as the first blind contestant to win the show. Their chemistry, determination, and consistently entertaining performances resonated with the viewers, proving that passion and dedication can overcome any obstacle.
The runners-up in a closely fought final were Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola, JB Gill and Lauren Oakley, and Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec, all of whom had delivered incredible performances throughout the series.
The Enduring Appeal of Strictly Come Dancing
Strictly Come Dancing has remained a firm favourite in the UK television landscape for two decades due to its unique blend of entertainment, competition, and heartwarming human stories. The show’s appeal lies in several factors:
The Transformation Journey: Viewers are invested in watching celebrities with varying levels of dance experience (often starting with none at all) gradually improve and discover a new skill.
The Glamour and Spectacle: The stunning costumes, elaborate sets, and professional choreography create a visually captivating experience.
The Personalities: The mix of celebrity contestants, the charm of the hosts, and the expertise (and banter) of the judges create a compelling ensemble cast.
The Emotional Connection: The hard work, dedication, and occasional setbacks of the contestants resonate with viewers, creating an emotional investment in their journey.
The Feel-Good Factor: Despite the competitive element, Strictly is ultimately a feel-good show that celebrates the joy of dance and the power of human connection.
Strictly Come Dancing 2024 continued this tradition, delivering a season filled with memorable moments, inspiring performances, and a deserving set of champions in Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell. As the glitter settles on another series, fans eagerly await the next installment, ready to welcome a new batch of celebrities onto the iconic ballroom floor.
FAQs
When did Strictly Come Dancing 2024 start and end?
The 2024 series premiered with its launch show on Saturday, 14th September 2024, at 7:20 PM BST on BBC One and iPlayer. The live shows commenced on 21st September, culminating in the grand finale on Saturday, 14th December 2024, at 6 PM GMT.
Who won Strictly Come Dancing 2024?
Chris McCausland, a blind comedian, captivated audiences and judges alike with his inspiring performances, ultimately clinching the coveted Glitterball Trophy. His journey was marked by resilience and charm, making him a standout contestant of the season.
Who were the celebrity contestants in 2024?
The 2024 lineup featured a diverse mix of personalities:
Chris McCausland
JB Gill
Wynne Evans (eliminated Week 9)
Toyah Willcox (eliminated Week 3)
Dr. Punam Krishan (eliminated Week 6)
Tasha Ghouri
Pete Wicks (eliminated Week 12)
Shayne Ward (eliminated Week 8)
Sarah Hadland
Tom Dean (eliminated Week 2)
Jamie Borthwick (eliminated Week 10)
Montell Douglas (eliminated Week 11)
Nick Knowles (eliminated Week 4)
Paul Merson (eliminated Week 5)
Sam Quek (eliminated Week 7)
Who hosted and judged the 2024 series?
Hosts: The show was presented by the dynamic duo Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who returned to bring their signature charm and wit.
Judges: The esteemed panel comprised Shirley Ballas (Head Judge), Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke, maintaining continuity and expertise in their evaluations.
Was there a 2024 Christmas Special?
Yes, the festive edition aired on 25th December 2024, featuring a special lineup of celebrities. Notably, Tayce, a drag queen and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK finalist, made history by winning the special alongside professional partner Kai Widdrington, achieving a perfect score.
What were some standout performances?
Several performances left lasting impressions:
Tasha Ghouri delivered routines that showcased her exceptional talent, often matching the professionals in skill.
Sarah Hadland’s cha-cha to “Like a Prayer” was both energetic and technically impressive.
JB Gill’s samba was noted for its rhythm and flair.
Was there a live tour following the series?
Absolutely. The Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour commenced in January 2025, bringing the magic of the ballroom to arenas across the UK. While Chris McCausland did not participate, runners-up like Tasha Ghouri, JB Gill, and Sarah Hadland enthralled audiences with their performances.
How can I watch Strictly Come Dancing 2024?
For viewers in the UK, all episodes are available on BBC iPlayer. International fans can access the show through various streaming services, often using VPNs to bypass regional restrictions.
Were there any controversies during the season?
The 2024 series was not without its challenges. Prior to the season, allegations emerged involving professional dancers, leading to investigations and the introduction of welfare measures, such as chaperones, to ensure a safe environment for all participants.
What’s next for Strictly Come Dancing?
As the show celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024, anticipation builds for future seasons. While official announcements are pending, the consistent popularity of the show suggests that Strictly Come Dancing will continue to be a staple of British television.
To conclude
The 2024 edition of Strictly Come Dancing reaffirmed its status as a beloved fixture in British entertainment. With a blend of seasoned professionals and enthusiastic celebrities, the series delivered memorable performances that resonated with audiences nationwide. Chris McCausland’s inspiring journey to victory highlighted the show’s inclusive spirit, while standout routines from Tasha Ghouri, Sarah Hadland, and JB Gill showcased the transformative power of dance.
To read more , click here
