BBC show Strictly Come Dancing is already facing claims of a fix with the live shows not even started yet
BBC Strictly Come Dancing has made its grand return with the 2025 launch show – and the programme is already embroiled in controversy over alleged fixing.
This year’s star-studded lineup features Dani Dyer, Vicky Pattison, Ellie Goldstein, Stefan Dennis, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, and Balvinder Sopal, all already shimmering in sequined outfits for the pre-taped launch episode.
However, as viewers anxiously anticipated the pairing reveals – full confirmed list here – alongside a special turn from pop sensation Jessie J, who recently disclosed her breast cancer battle, one contestant’s dancing background has emerged.
Emmerdale’s Lewis Cope boasts skills extending far beyond television acting, as the performer is revealed to be an accomplished dancer.
Reports have surfaced that the soap star has been dancing since he was 10 years old and previously appeared in a Billy Elliot stage production, reports the Mirror.
His background has sparked heated debate amongst viewers on social media.
“Another Billy Elliot ex-pro dancer. tut tut,” one Twitter/X user raged.
“Just give lewis the trophy now. He looks the part without seeing him move,” declared another frustrated fan.
A third chimed in: “I need lewis tostop pretending he’s not a trained dancer.”
Professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin couldn’t contain his enthusiasm before the launch, sharing a solo photograph with the message: “Pink to make you wink. WE’RE BACK TONIGHT so so excited to be part of the best show on telly and even more excited for all of you to see the launch show tonight! All the pairings will be very official soon xx who’s gonna join in and watch? STRICTLY IS BACK BABY.”
Behind the scenes, dancer Amy Dowden encountered Jessie J and experienced a touching exchange with the pop star.
Amy, who has also fought breast cancer, uploaded a selfie alongside Jessie J, penning: “So amazing to meet @jessiej, a fellow breast cancer sister, but foremost an icon and mama.
“As soon as we said hello, it was like nothing else mattered, just two women sharing our stories and understanding the highs and devastating lows we’ve been through. Thank you for the lovely chat and the pic wishing you love and strength on your continued recovery and long May you do what you do best.”
Previously, 2023 champion Ellie Leach sent her best wishes to the fresh lineup, reflecting on her experience with Vito Coppola.
She revealed: “Happy Strictly day to all who celebrate. Wishing lots of luck and love to everyone taking part this year, I’ll be watching in my pjs from my sofa every Saturday, I won’t be envious of the Saturday night nerves.”
Comedian Chris McCausland, 48, delivered some cheeky warnings for the 2025 contestants. While shooting at Elstree Studios alongside his partner Dianne Buswell, he proudly brandished the Glitterball trophy and proclaimed: “I’ve decided I’m not giving this back. No, I worked too hard for this I earned it fair and square! So do you know what? Class of 2025, enjoy dancing for nothing.”
Strictly Come Dancing is on BBC One and BBC iPlayer
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