BBC announce special programme to celebrate 20 years of Strictly Come Dancing
The show first aired in 2004
Last updated 15th May 2024
Believe it or not, it's been a huge 20 years since Strictly Come Dancing first waltzed onto our screens, with the show since becoming a staple of Saturday night TV for many across the country.
In celebration of the show's 20th anniversary, which is 15th May 2024, BBC bosses have announced a special one-off anniversary show to celebrate two decades of unforgettable entertainment.
When is it on TV?
Bosses are yet to confirm when the special anniversary show will air, but they have confirmed more details will be revealed in due course.
What will happen on the show?
BBC Studios Entertainment Productions have commissioned a special one-off programme that takes fans through 20 years of unforgettable entertainment, featuring iconic performances and plenty of heart-warming interviews with past celebrity stars, professional dancers, and judges.
According to the BBC, the new programme will 'showcase why Strictly Come Dancing has captured the hearts of the nation for the past 20 years as one of the BBC’s best known and well-loved programmes'.
Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC says: “Strictly Come Dancing is more than just a TV show, it has become an integral part of British culture, bringing families together and inspiring viewers of all ages to embrace the joy of dance. Throughout its 20-year history, the show has launched careers, sparked trends, and touched the hearts of millions with its dazzling performances, emotional journeys, and unforgettable moments and we will be showcasing it all in this very special programme.”
Suzy Lamb, Managing Director, BBC Studios Entertainment added: “From glittering Ballroom numbers to high-energy Latin routines, the show continues to push the boundaries of dance and entertainment and we want viewers to join us in raising a toast to 20 years of sparkle and shine in the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom.”
How can I watch it?
The one-off special will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
When was the first episode of Strictly?
The first ever episode of Strictly Come Dancing aired on Saturday 15th May 2004, with Len Goodman, Arlene Philips, Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Toniolo on the judging panel.
Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly hosted the show, with celebs such as David Dickinson, Claire Sweeney and Natasha Kaplinsky taking part.
Since the first series, the show has grown in popularity year-on-year, becoming one of the BBC’s best known and well-loved programmes. In recent days, the show won another BAFTA TV Award in the Best Entertainment category.
When is Strictly back on TV?
Although we have the special one-off episode to look forward to, the 2024 series of Strictly Come Dancing won't be on TV until later this year. The series usually runs between September-December.
Who is taking part?
Although no names have been confirmed for the 2024 series just yet, as ever, rumours are rife as to which celebs will take part.
Check out all of the Strictly 2024 rumours below:
Delta Goodrem
2026 is set to be a busy year for singer Delta Goodrem. As well as representing Australia at this year's Eurovision Song Contest, reports are rife Delta has very nearly signed up for Strictly later in the year. A source told the Daily Mail newspaper's Eden Confidential column: "It is all but a done deal. They've been trying to get her for years. Obviously, she is a good name for the show."
Josie Gibson
As well as landing a brand new show with ITV/STV called How To Clean Up For Cash, former Big Brother star and This Morning presenter Josie Gibson is reportedly being lined-up for the 2026 series of Strictly.
A source told a national newspaper: "Josie has been on the BBC's radar for a while and they've not given up their pursuit. They're hoping this year is the year, and talks are progressing well. Bosses are convinced her down-to-earth charm will be the boost this year's new-look show needs. Warm and engaging, she's just what they require right now and will be a sure-fire hit with fans."
Stacey Solomon
Another well-known name on this year's rumoured list is Stacey Solomon! Stacey is no strange to working with the BBC, with her show Sort Your Life Out now onto its sixth series, as well as her reality show Stacey & Joe airing last year. With the mum-of-five being a fan favourite, bosses will be keen to get her signature.
Tom Parker Bowles
Food critic Tom Parker Bowles, also known as Queen Camilla's son, was reportedly top of the BBC's wish list for the 2025 series. However, after Tom didn't appear on the line-up, could we see him on the 2026 series?
Dani Dyer
Reality star Dani Dyer was set to take part in the 2025 series, but she was forced to pull out just days ahead of the first live show after fracturing her ankle in training. Dani has expressed her interest in returning, so could we see her in 2026?
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