The Strictly Come Dancing 2023 has come to an end, and what a series it was! After 13 sparkly weeks of watching this year's Strictly Come Dancing 2023 line-up show off their fancy footwork on the dancefloor, we have now got a new champion to add to our Strictly Come Dancing winners list.
Here's everything you need to know about the 2023 series from who won to what dances everyone performed each week...
Strictly Come Dancing 2023 next episode
The Strictly Come Dancing 2023 has now finished, but you can still catch up or re-live your favorite dances on BBC iPlayer.
Strictly spin-off show, Strictly: It Takes Two 2023 is also available on BBC iPlayer if you would like to catch up.
Who won Strictly Come Dancing 2023?
Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola were crowned champions of Strictly Come Dancing 2023 on Saturday, December 16. The couple won the hearts of the nation with their infectious friendship and positive nature, and bowled the judges over with their performances each week - no mean feat considering Ellie had never danced before starting the show back in September!
Ellie and Vito reached the final where they battled it out for the glitterball trophy against Bobby and Dianne and Layton and Nikita. They danced an American Smooth to Robbie Williams’ cover of Ain’t That a Kick in the Head, a paso doble to Insomnia by 2WEI, and their show dance to a Jennifer Lopez megamix, with the public deciding they should be the very worthy 2023 winners.
Strictly Come Dancing 2023 line up — all this year's celebrities and where they came in the competition
Amanda Abbington - withdrew from the competition
Amanda Abbington was the first celebrity contestant confirmed for the brand new series of Strictly Come Dancing and she's been partnered with Strictly favorite, Giovanni Pernice.
Amanda is best known for playing Mary Morstan in Sherlock. Her other credits include Mr Selfridge, Wolfe, and Desperate Measures, she also had a lead role in the series The Net and feature film The Lost King.
Amanda said: “I’m thrilled to have been asked to do Strictly. I’m actually really shy and self-conscious so this will be a great opportunity for me to overcome those things! Plus, I get to learn to dance which I am incredibly excited about. I’m really looking forward to the training too, I’m quite competitive as my family and friends will tell you. I can’t wait to start!”
Amanda has quit Strictly Come Dancing, with the news being announced on It Takes Two.
A Strictly spokesperson said: “Amanda Abbington is unable to continue in Strictly Come Dancing and has decided to withdraw from the competition. The show wishes her all the best for the future.”
Angela Rippon - eighth to be eliminated
Angela Rippon, who has been paired up with Kai Widdrington, was bound to end up on Strictly one day as a former presenter of Come Dancing between 1988 and 1991.
She currently presents BBC's Rip-Off Britain and is a regular on Morning Live and The One Show.
Angela shared her excitement about taking part in the show: “Having been a fan of Strictly since day one, and as a former presenter of Come Dancing, this will be quite an adventure for me. A scary one, considering I’m about to be 79. But I’m really looking forward to the challenge, and perhaps being able to learn to dance the Argentinian Tango!!”
So far Angela is wowing the judges with her impressive footwork and fans can't get enough of her pairing with Kai — the pair did end up in the dance-off on Sunday, November 5 against Adam and Luba, but the judges voted to keep Angela in the competition. Angela landed in the dance-off for a second time on November 11 after facing Krishnan Guru-Murthy.
Sadly it was third time unlucky for Angela and she left Strictly in Blackpool Week after landing in the dance-off against Bobby and Dianne.
Layton Williams - finalist
Layton, who is dancing with Nikita Kuzmin, is best known as a stage and screen actor and has performed in London’s West End, giving performances as the title role in Billy Elliot and Everyone’s Talking About Jamie. He also appeared in the hit British sitcom Bad Education alongside comedian Jack Whitehall.
He said: "Absolutely buzzing to confirm that I will be taking part in THE most iconic dance competition in the UK! It's time to bring it to the Ballroom. So excited to learn new skills from the best. Bring on the sequins… ALL the sequins!"
Layton reached the final, winning some impressive scores from the judges throughout the series and performing some iconic dances that will go down in Strictly history.
Krishnan Guru-Murthy - seventh to be eliminated
Award-winning journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy is best known as the main anchor of Channel 4 News, as well as reporting for the foreign affairs series Unreported World and hosting live debates for Channel 4 during elections, referendums and major crises. Krishnan is dancing with Lauren Oakley.
He said of joining the show: “I’m surprised, delighted and slightly confused to find myself taking part in Strictly on the basis of ‘you only live once!’ and I can’t wait to start learning to dance, but I am slightly worried about my general decrepitude. I know I’m going to love it and have a brilliant time and just hope I’m not the only one enjoying my participation.”
Krishnan and Lauren left the show on Sunday, November 12 after facing Angela and Kai in the dance-off. Speaking of his time on the show, Krishnan told Tess: "This has been the most incredible experience. I said it has been life-changing and it genuinely has. It’s right I am going out this week and I have got to get back to life. The thing that has made Strictly really special is Lauren. She is going to go a long way and I am very proud of her."
Eddie Kadi - fourth to be eliminated
Stand-up comedian and radio presenter Eddie Kadi, who is dancing with Karen Hauer, was the first British black comedian to headline the O2 Arena in London and has hosted a number of prestigious red carpet shows.
Eddie has also made appearances on Blankety Blank, The National Comedy Awards, Tonight with Target and more.
Eddie also fronts The Official Afrobeats Chart Show on BBC Radio 1Xtra and is a Team Captain on ITV’s entertainment format Sorry I Didn’t Know.
Eddie revealed: “WOW. Anyone who knows me, understands that music and dance is so important and central to who I am. I’m so unbelievably proud and honoured that Strictly and the BBC have asked me to join the 2023 Team."
Eddie received the first 10 of Strictly 2023 after Shirley awarded him and Karen the top mark for their Couples Choice dance in week 3.
Unfortunately, Eddie was the fourth celebrity to be eliminated after an "extremely close" result following their dance-off with Zara McDermott and Graziano Di Prima.
Angela Scanlon - ninth to be eliminated
TV presenter Angela Scanlon is an Irish TV presenter for the BBC and RTÉ and is dancing with Carlos Gu.
Angela said of joining the line-up: “I’m terrified, I’m excited and I have so many questions. Will they make me tan? How itchy are sequins?! Do they do flesh-coloured sports bras? Well — there’s only one way to find out, right!? Now I’m panicking a bit… but also secretly thrilled about the prospect of all that glitter. Let’s go!”
She hosts the hit interior design show Your Home Made Perfect and Your Garden Made Perfect on BBC Two and is the only woman in the UK and Ireland to have their own Saturday night chat show with Ask Me Anything on RTÉ One.
Last year, Angela published her first book Joyrider, part empowering guide and part memoir, all about the importance of bringing gratitude into everyday life.
Starting off as a stylist, she worked in fashion TV in Ireland, before beginning her career in the UK as the new presenter of Robot Wars alongside Dara Ó Briain in 2016.
Angela has also hosted a number of documentaries for the BBC, including Angela Scanlon's Close Encounters, Trump's Unlikely Superfans, World's Oldest Family and a narrator for Tourettes: Teenage Tics.
Angela was the ninth celebrity to leave the competition after coming head-to-head with Layton in the dance-off. Layton and Nikita performed their American Smooth to It’s Oh So Quiet by Björk, and Angela and Carlos then performed their Cha Cha to I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor. Motsi, Anton and Craig all voted to save Layton meaning Angela would be going home. However, despite it not making a difference in the result, head judge Shirley said she would have chosen to save Angela and Carlos.
Zara McDermott - fifth to be eliminated
After working as a government policy advisor for the Department of Energy and Climate Change and Department of Education, Zara McDermott became a contestant on Love Island 2018. Zara is dancing with Graziano Di Prima.
Now, she is a broadcaster and content creator, who makes documentaries that inspire conversation and educate young people on hard-hitting issues. She has presented five successful BBC documentaries so far, including Revenge Porn, Uncovering Rape Culture, Disordered Eating, and Gaia: A Death on Dancing Ledge. She also presents the entertainment show Love In The Flesh on BBC Three.
Zara was the fifth celebrity to leave the show after finding herself in the dance-off against Adam and Luba on Halloween Week. Speaking of her time on the show, Zara said: "I have had the time of my life. Just to be here is incredible. Thank you to the judges and my amazing partner obviously.
"My fellow contestants are just incredible. It has been the most amazing experience. I can't believe it's over but I am going to be here in spirit every week supporting them."
Adam Thomas — sixth to be eliminated
Soap star Adam Thomas is best known for playing Adam Barton in Emmerdale for nine years until he left the soap in 2018 and recently reprised his role as Donte Charles in Waterloo Road. Adam is dancing with Luba Mushtuk.
Adam appeared in I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here in 2016, and went on to co-host the spin-off I’m a Celebrity: Extra Camp.
Adam said of joining: "I am so excited to be joining the cast of this year's Strictly Come Dancing. I've been such a big fan of the show for years, I can't believe I'm actually doing it! I can't dance to save my life but I'm buzzing to learn and have a good laugh with my pro. Get me on that dance floor...I can't wait!"
On whether he thinks he has a chance of winning the show, Adam said: "You know what, I am going to be honest, when I first joined the show, I thought I have got a shot at it. But now I have seen the competition and now I know what I am up against. But that has made me feel a lot more at ease because I am not necessarily in it to win it now, I know I am just here to enjoy it and have fun!"
Adam found himself in the dance-off in Halloween week against Zara McDermott, but all four judges voted to save him and Luba.
Adam left the show on Sunday, November 5 after he found himself in the dance-off once again, this time against Angela and Kai. Sadly Adam's rhumba wasn't enough to keep him in the competition and all four judges voted to save Angela.
Nikita Kanda - second to be eliminated
Nikita hosts the BBC Asian Network’s Breakfast show, after previously presenting the Saturday afternoon show. She has interviewed an array of star-studded celebrities and has also fronted regular reports on The One Show.
Nikita was dancing with Gorka Marquez but sadly became the second celebrity leave the show.
She said of joining the line-up: “I can’t believe I’m going to be on Strictly. This is a dream come true. I’m still pinching myself. I don’t think it will properly sink in until I step onto the dancefloor. I can’t wait to get glammed up and get out there. Throw the glitter on me!”
Ellie Leach - 2023 winner!
Ellie is best known for playing Faye Windass on Coronation Street and was nominated for a number of British Soap Awards and Inside Soap Awards for her role and hard-hitting storylines. Ellie is dancing with Vito Coppola.
After a dramatic time in Weatherfield, Ellie recently left the soap after 12 years when her character reconnected with daughter Miley.
She said of joining the show: “It still doesn’t feel real that I’m going to be doing Strictly!! It’s always been a dream of mine so I guess dreams really do come true!!!!”
Ellie and Vito became a firm fan favourite throughout the series with their amazing chemistry winning viewers over. But it wasn't just their infectious friendship that led to Ellie and Vito lifting the glitterball trophy, Ellie also had no dancing experience before she joined the show, and was, as Vito told everyone, 'what Strictly is all about'!
Jody Cundy CBE - third to be eliminated
Jody Cundy CBE is a decorated World and Paralympic Champion and was dancing with Jowita Przystal.
He has represented Great Britain at seven Summer Paralympics winning eight Gold, one Silver and three Bronze medals across swimming and cycling events.
Jody has also competed in multiple World Championships, winning 23 world titles. The most recent win came at the World Cycling Championships in Glasgow.
After competing at Tokyo 2021, Jody became the first man in Paralympics GB history to win medals at seven different games.
In 2009 he was awarded an MBE for his services to Disability sport, in 2017 this was upgraded to an OBE for his services to Swimming & Cycling and in 2022 he received a CBE for services to cycling.
He currently holds the world record in the Flying 200m and the 1km Time Trial. He also holds 14 consecutive world titles in the MC4 Kilo Time Trial.
Jody shared about joining the series: “Excited to be welcomed into the Strictly family and throw myself headfirst into the world of ballroom dancing. So far away from what I’m used to, but I’m looking forward to the challenge and pushing myself way out of my comfort zone, especially as I’m always last on the dance floor. Can’t wait to get stuck in, bring on the glitter and sequins!”
Sadly, Jody and Jowita were the third couple to leave the show after he went head-to-head with Eddie Kadi in the dance-off. Speaking of his time on the show, Jody told Tess: "You know what, when I signed up for this I thought what on earth am I signing up for and we did that first live show and I loved every second of it. Just being able to dance and do something I've never done before and get completely out of my comfort zone and with Jowita has been great."
Bobby Brazier - finalist
Bobby Brazier is another soap star added to the Strictly line-up... he is dancing with Dianne Buswell.
The 20-year-old son of late reality star Jade Goody joined EastEnders in September 2022 as Freddie Slater and has become a huge hit with fans since his first appearance.
Prior to landing his first acting role in EastEnders, Bobby modelled on the runway for world renowned fashion house Dolce & Gabbana at Milan Fashion Week and sat front row alongside Lewis Hamilton at London Fashion Week.
He has also featured on the cover of style magazine Man About Town and is a passionate advocate for positive mental health and well-being on social media.
Bobby said: “I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly line up, I can’t wait to start training like a professional dancer and adding a few moves to my locker. I'm looking forward to performing in front of everyone, it's going to be so much fun!”
Bobby and Diane were a huge hit with fans, with their dances putting a huge smile on viewers' faces each week. The couple got some amazing marks from the judges over the weeks, and even Craig couldn't help but be impressed with Bobby's snake hips!
Nigel Harman - out due to injury
Nigel Harman, who is dancing with Katya Jones, became a soap legend after playing bad boy Dennis Rickman in EastEnders from 2003 to 2005 and won him multiple awards, including Most Popular Newcomer at the National Television Awards.
After EastEnders, Nigel went on to play valet Mr Green in Downton Abbey and now appears as Casualty’s new clinical lead, Dr Max Cristie.
Nigel said: "I'm amazed, excited, and terrified to be doing Strictly. As an armchair fan of the show I have watched in awe as people have twirled and gyrated across the screen. And now it's my turn.....gulp!"
Annabel Croft - tenth to be eliminated
Annabel Croft is a former British Number One tennis player who at 15 years old was the youngest British player to compete at Wimbledon for 95 years. She also represented Great Britain in prestigious Wightman and Federation Cup competitions and continues to play an integral role in the coverage of Wimbledon.
Annabel is dancing with Johannes Radebe.
Outside of tennis, Annabel has presented entertainment shows such as Treasure Hunt and Inceptor and covers all the major tennis events worldwide. Her TV and radio career includes presenting, commentating, and working as a pundit for a number of broadcasters including BBC, Sky, Amazon Prime, ITV and Discovery.
Speaking of her preparations for the start of Strictly Annabel said: “I haven’t done anything differently, other than I went to make a cup of tea the other day and I went to try and do a ballet turn.... it was a bit clumpy and I almost fell over, so that wasn’t good!
"I keep saying I’m going to do a few stretches, so I do need to do that and loosen up. I was quite supple as a child and now I’ve stiffened up through tennis. I need to get my suppleness back."
Sadly Annabel left the competition in the semi-finals after finding herself in the dance off against Bobby and Diane.
Les Dennis - First to be eliminated
Les Dennis was dancing with Nancy Xu and was sadly the first celebrity to leave this year's show.
TV legend Les has been in showbiz for over 50 years, including famously hosting Family Fortunes for 16 years.
He started his career as a comedian on the Working Men’s Club circuit in and around his native Liverpool. He got his big break on TV Talent show New Faces, and went on to star in sketch and variety show The Laughter Show, forming a double-act with the late Dustin Gee.
His TV career includes roles in Extras, Brookside, Death in Paradise, Midsomer Murders and two years in Coronation Street as the character Michael Rodwell. On stage, Les has appeared in hit plays and musicals such as Hairspray, Legally Blonde The Musical and 42nd Street.
Who has left Strictly Come Dancing 2023?
The first couple to leave the show in week 2 (because no one was eliminated in week 1) was Les Dennis and his dance partner Nancy Xu. The couple faced Nikita Kuzmin and Gorka Marquez in the dance-off, with all judges voting to save Nikita and Gorka.
The second couple to leave the show was Nikita Kuzmin and Gorka Marquez after they faced Zara McDermott and Graziano Di Prima in the dance-off. Nikita and Gorka danced the Jive to Kids In America from Clueless, however, it was Zara and Graziano's Pasodoble to The Puss Suite from Puss In Boots that won the judges over.
The third couple to leave the show were Jody Cundy and his dance partner Jowita Przystal. The pair faced Eddie Kadi and his dance partner Karen Hauer in the dance-off, with all four judges choosing to save Eddie and Karen.
Speaking of her partnership with Jody, Jowita said: "I cannot even describe how proud I am of you Jody, because from day 1 till now, it's an enormous improvement. And I hope one day when you look back at all of this, you will say to yourself I'm proud of myself, because that will be my biggest achievement."
The fourth couple to leave the show were Eddie Kadi and Karen Hauer after they faced Zara McDermott and Graziano Di Prima in the dance-off.
All four judges chose to save Zara and Graziano, with Motsi Mabuse calling the result “extremely close”.
Speaking about the result, Kadi said: “I’ve really enjoyed this, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do — I love dancing. This has been the highest moment of my career. It’s the happiest I’ve ever been.
“More importantly, this little African boy, I just wanted my culture to shine. Everything I stand for, when it comes to my comedy, when it comes to my presenting, is based on my culture, is based on my upbringing and I wanted that to shine most importantly.”
Zara McDermott was the fifth celebrity to leave the show after finding herself in the dance-off against Adam and Luba on Halloween Week. Speaking of her time on the show, Zara said: ""I have had the time of my life. Just to be here is incredible. Thank you to the judges and my amazing partner obviously.
"My fellow contestants are just incredible. It has been the most amazing experience. I can't believe it's over but I am going to be here in spirit every week supporting them."
The sixth couple to leave the show was Adam Thomas and his dance partner Luba. The pair found themselves in the dance off with Angela and Kai, but sadly their rhumba wasn't enough to keep them in the competition.
Speaking of his exit, Adam said: "What a journey it’s been. I honestly thought I was leaving in week two and the fact that I’ve got this far I’m so proud of myself.
“I’ve had an amazing time from start to finish. I came here to learn how to dance and I’ve learned so much more about myself. The confidence and self-belief I now have in myself, it’s out of this world I have to thank all these guys up here. What a bunch to be on this journey with. I’m just very, very lucky!”
The seventh couple to leave the show was Krishnan and Lauren after facing Angela and Kai in the dance-off.
Speaking of his time on the show, Krishnan told Tess: "This has been the most incredible experience. I said it has been life-changing and it genuinely has. I am incredibly grateful to the entire production team, judges, my incredible Strictly family. It’s right I am going out this week and I have got to get back to life.
"The thing that has made Strictly really special is Lauren. She is the most incredible teacher, partner and friend. She is the real Strictly star and I am so delighted I am the first partnership you have had. She is going to go a long way and I am very proud of her."
The eighth couple to leave the show was Angela and Kai. Unfortunately, Angela found herself in the dance-off against Bobby Brazier and Diane Buswell after performing at the iconic Blackpool Tower. All of the judges opted to save Bobby and Diane, so Angela was the eighth to leave.
Angela Scanlon was the ninth celebrity to leave the competition after coming head-to-head with Layton in the dance-off. Layton and Nikita performed their American Smooth to It’s Oh So Quiet by Björk, and Angela and Carlos then performed their Cha Cha to I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor. Motsi, Anton and Craig all voted to save Layton meaning Angela would be going home. However, despite it not making a difference in the result, head judge Shirley said she would have chosen to save Angela and Carlos.
Speaking of her time on the show, Angela said: “It’s been honestly incredible, I’m gutted, really gutted that it’s finished now, but it has been the most wonderful experience. I have made the best friend in this man [to Carlos]. We have had so much fun, he is such an incredible guy. He has supported me and picked me up and made me laugh so much. I don’t know what to say, it’s been magical honestly – all of those people up there! My husband at home, my two little girls and all my friends!”
While no one left the show in Musicals Week, Nigel Harman was forced to bow out of the show after sustaining an injury during rehearsals.
He explained to Claudia: “I was leaping off a rostrum and was about to be caught by some very handsome men and, as I flew I was Peter Pan and as I landed, I was in A&E.
"I’ve done something to my rib and it’s quite painful.” Nigel continued to say that he “loved” his experience on the show, continuing "This really hasn’t sunk in. When I watched everyone come down the stairs, I was a bit like, 'Oh, this is real, I'm not a part of this anymore'."
Former tennis player Annabel and professional partner Johannes Radebe become the tenth couple to be eliminated after finding themselves in the dance-off against Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell.
Reflecting on her exit Annabel said: "Strictly really has been so life-changing! When I think back to week 1, I was apprehensive and terrified… a bit like a rabbit in the headlights. But Strictly has brought me out of my shell and allowed me to discover things about myself that I never knew. I went through a lot of different emotions and I thank EVERYONE who has supported us both, along the way, because it's all of you, who have kept us going and enabled us to get this far. We really appreciate it."
What dances were on the Strictly 2023 final?
Each finalist danced three dances - two that they had performed previously and then their show dance.
The dances for the finals were...
Bobby and Dianne danced a couple’s choice to This Woman’s Work by Maxwell, a samba to Candi Station’s Young Hearts Run Free, and their show dance to a La La Land medley.
Ellie and Vito danced an American Smooth to Robbie Williams’ cover of Ain’t That a Kick in the Head, a paso doble to Insomnia by 2WEI, and their show dance to a Jennifer Lopez megamix.
Finally, Layton and Nikita performed an Argentine Tango to Tattoo by Loreen, a quick step to Gregory Porter’s cover of Puttin’ On the Ritz, and their show dance to Friend Like Me by Ne-Yo.
Semi finals - Saturday, December 9
- Ellie Leach – Couple's Choice to Dua Lipa Medley and a Cha Cha Cha to Mambo Italiano by Bette Midler
- Layton Williams – Charleston to Fit as a Fiddle by Gene Kelly and Donald O'Connor and a Rumba to Lift Me Up by Rihanna
- Bobby Brazier – Quickstep to Mack the Knife by Bobby Darin and a Paso Doble to Run Boy Run by Woodkid
- Annabel Croft – Salsa to You'll Be Mine (Party Time) by Gloria Estefan and a Viennese Waltz to Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want by Slow Moving Millie
Past dances for each celebrity
Week 10 - Musicals Week on Saturday, December 2
- Ellie Leach – Quickstep to Belle from Beauty and The Beast
- Layton Williams – Paso Doble to Backstage Romance from Moulin Rouge! The Musical
- Bobby Brazier – Salsa to (I've Had) The Time Of My Life from Dirty Dancing
- Nigel Harman – Charleston to Step in Time from Mary Poppins
- Annabel Croft – Foxtrot to For Good from Wicked
Week 9 - Saturday, November 25
- Ellie Leach – Argentine Tango to Bills, Bills, Bills by Destiny's Child
- Angela Scanlon – Cha Cha to I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor
- Layton Williams – American Smooth to It's Oh So Quiet by Björk
- Bobby Brazier – Couple's Choice to This Woman's Work by Maxwell
- Nigel Harman – Rumba to It's All Coming Back to Me Now by Celine Dion
- Annabel Croft – Paso Doble to España Cañi by Trad
Week 8 - Blackpool Special on Saturday, November 18
- Angela R and Kai: American Smooth to Tea for Two by Ella Fitzgerald
- Angela S and Carlos: Argentine Tango to Back To Black by Amy Winehouse
- Annabel and Johannes: American Smooth to Unchained Melody by Benedetta Caretta
- Bobby and Dianne: Jive to Wake Me Up Before You Go Go by Wham!
- Ellie and Vito: Charleston to Love Machine by Girls Aloud
- Layton and Nikita: Couple’s Choice to Ain’t No Other Man by Christina Aguilera
- Nigel and Katya: Quickstep to It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing by Duke Ellington
Week 7 - Saturday, November 11
- Krishnan Guru-Murthy – Samba to Bamboleo by Gipsy Kings
- Ellie Leach – Rumba to True Colours by Cyndi Lauper
- Angela Scanlon – Waltz to With You I'm Born Again by Billy Preston and Syreeta
- Layton Williams – Argentine Tango to Tattoo by Loreen
- Bobby Brazier – American Smooth to Ghost Of You by 5 Seconds of Summer
- Nigel Harman – Couple's Choice to Just The Way You Are by Bruno Mars
- Angela Rippon – Paso Doble to Hung Up by Madonna
- Annabel Croft – Samba to Whenever, Wherever by Shakira
Week 6 - Saturday, November 4
- Adam and Luba - American Rumba to Dancing On My Own by Calum Scott
- Annabel and Johannes - Couple’s Choice to Wings by Birdy
- Angela R and Kai - Waltz to Fascination by Nat King Cole
- Angela S and Carlos - Samba to Ain’t It Funny by Jennifer Lopez
- Bobby and Dianne - Argentine Tango to Sail by AWOLNATION
- Ellie and Vito - American Smooth to Ain’t That A Kick In The Head by Robbie Williams
- Krishnan and Lauren - Couple’s Choice to You Can Call Me Al by Paul Simon –
- Layton and Nikita - Jive to Shake Ur Body by SHY FX, T.Power, Di
- Nigel and Katya - Tango to Nothing Breaks Like a Heart by Mark Ronson ft. Miley Cyrus
Week 6 - Saturday, October 28, Halloween Week
- Adam and Luba — American Smooth to "Magic Moments" by Perry Como
- Annabel and Johannes — Tango to "Need U Tonight" by INXS
- Angela R and Kai — Charleston to "Murder She Wrote" (TV Theme)
- Angela S and Carlos — Paso Doble to "BLACK swan SWAN lake" by District 78
- Bobby and Dianne — Cha Cha to "Come-On-A-My-House" by Della Reese
- Ellie and Vito — Salsa to "Murder On The Dancefloor" by Sophie Ellis-Bextor
- Krishnan and Lauren — Viennese Waltz to "Kiss From A Rose" by Seal
- Layton and Nikita — Tango to "Vampire" by Olivia Rodrigo
- Nigel and Katya — Cha Cha to "I Was Made For Lovin’ You" by KISS
- Zara and Graziano — Charleston to "Jeepers Creepers" by Al Donahue and his Orchestra.
Week 5 - Saturday, October 21
- Adam Thomas – Couple's Choice to Backstreet Boys Medley by Backstreet Boys
- Zara McDermott – American Smooth to Can't Fight The Moonlight by LeAnn Rimes
- Krishnan Guru-Murthy - Quickstep to The Lady Is A Tramp by Frank Sinatra
- Ellie Leach – Paso Doble to Insomnia by Faithless
- Amanda Abbington – Cha Cha to Canned Heat by Jamiroquai
- Eddie Kadi – Samba to Calm Down by Rema ft Selena Gomez
- Angela Rippon – Tango to Tangier by Sexteto Mayor
- Layton Williams – Salsa to Quimbara by Johnny Pacheco and Celia Cruz
- Bobby Brazier – Viennese Waltz to Golden Hour by JVKE
- Nigel Harman – Foxtrot to I Just Want To Make Love To You by Etta James
- Angela Scanlon – American Smooth to Cherish by Madonna
- Annabel Croft – Charleston to Ladies Night by Kool & The Gang
Week 4 - Saturday, October 14
- Adam Thomas – Waltz to I Wonder Why by Curtis Stigers
- Zara McDermott – Viennese Waltz to You Don't Have to Say You Love Me by Brenda Lee
- Krishnan Guru-Murthy - Paso Doble to By the Way by Red Hot Chili Peppers
- Jody Cundy – Salsa to Samba de Janeiro by Bellini
- Ellie Leach – Samba to Copacabana by Barry Manilow
- Amanda Abbington – Fox Trot to Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac
- Eddie Kadi – American Smooth to Sex Bomb by Tom Jones
- Angela Rippon – Rumba to Rise Like A Phoenix by Conchita Wurst
- Layton Williams – Cha Cha to Million Dollar Bill by Whitney Houston
- Bobby Brazier – Tango to Fashion by David Bowie
- Nigel Harman – Salsa to Suavemente by Elvis Crespo
- Angela Scanlon – Viennese Waltz to You Are The Reason by Calum Scott & Leona Lewis
- Annabel Croft – Jive to Feel It Still by Portugal The Man
Week 3 - Saturday, October 7 Movie Week
- Adam Thomas – Jive to Take On Me from The Super Mario Bros
- Zara McDermott – Paso Doble to The Puss Suite from Puss in Boots
- Krishnan Guru-Murthy - Charleston to Money Money from Cabaret
- Jody Cundy – American Smooth to Married Life from Up
- Ellie Leach – Viennese Waltz to Waiting On A Miracle from Encanto
- Nikita Kanda – Jive to Kids in America from Clueless
- Amanda Abbington – Rumba to Out of Reach from Bridget Jones
- Eddie Kadi – Couple's Choice to Men in Black from Men in Black
- Angela Rippon – Quickstep to Do-Re-Mi from The Sounds of Music
- Layton Williams – Viennese Waltz to There Are Worse Things I Could Do from Grease
- Bobby Brazier – Samba to Young Hearts Run Free from Romeo and Juliet
- Nigel Harman – Jive to Batman Theme from Batman
- Angela Scanlon – Charleston to Who's Got The Pain? from Damn Yankees
- Annabel Croft - Waltz to Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany's
Week 2 - Saturday, September 30
- Adam Thomas – Tango to Somebody Told Me by Maneskin
- Zara McDermott – Quickstep to Anyone For You by George Ezra
- Les Dennis – Samba to Rock the Boat by Hues Corporation
- Krishnan Guru-Murthy - Foxtrot to Love Really Hurts Without You by Billy Ocean
- Jody Cundy – Paso Doble to Thunderstruck by AC/DC
- Ellie Leach – Foxtrot to Perfect by Fairground Attraction
- Nikita Kanda – Charleston to Single Ladies by Beyoncé
- Amanda Abbington – Saldaq to One by Gloria Estefan
- Eddie Kadi – Cha-cha to Rie y Llora by Celia Cruz
- Angela Rippon – Foxtrot to You Make Me Feel So Young by Frank Sinatra
- Layton Williams – Quickstep to Puttin’ on the Ritz by Gregory Porter
- Bobby Brazier – Charleston to Do Your Thing by Basement Jaxx
- Nigel Harman – Viennese Waltz to Until I Found You by Stephen Sanchez
- Angela Scanlon – Jive to Trouble by Shampoo
- Annabel Croft – Quickstep to Walking on Sunshine by Katrina And The Waves
Week 1 - Saturday, September 23
- Layton Williams and Nikita Kuzmin – Samba to Touch by Little Mix
- Angela Rippon and Kai Widdrington – Cha Cha Cha to Get The Party Started by Shirley Bassey
- Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell – Foxtrot to All About You by McFly
- Jody Cundy and Jowita Przystał – Quickstep to I’m Sitting on Top of the World by Bobby Darin
- Angela Scanlon and Carlos Gu – Tango to Prisoner by Miley Cyrus and Dua Lipa
- Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola – Jive to Can’t Tame Her by Zara Larsson
- Annabel Croft and Johannes Radebe – Cha Cha Cha to Uptown Girl by Billy Joel
- Eddie Kadi and Karen Hauer – Quickstep to Two Hearts by Phil Collins
- Les Dennis and Nancy Xu – Tango to Don’t You Want Me by The Human League
- Adam Thomas and Luba Mushtuk – Cha Cha Cha to Waffle House by Jonas Brothers
- Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice – Viennese Waltz to Pointless by Lewis Capaldi
- Nigel Harman and Katya Jones – Paso Doble to Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana.
- Nikita Kandi and Gorka Marquez – Waltz to Run To You by Whitney Houston
- Zara McDermott and Graziano Di Prima – Cha Cha Cha to Crush by Jennifer Paige
- Krishnan Guru-Murthy and Lauren Oakley – Cha Cha Cha to Boom Chack-A-Lak by Apache Indian
Who were the professional dancers for Strictly Come Dancing 2023?
The female dancers returning were Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Nancy Xu, Lauren Oakley and Michelle Tsiakkas. Sadly fan favourite Amy Dowden wasn't part of this year's line-up as she has been bravely battling cancer, however, fans were left thrilled when she made an appearance on stage with her fellow dancers in the final.
Male dancers Graziano Di Prima, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Giovanni Pernice, Johannes Radebe, Kai Widdrington, Carlos Gu, and Vita Coppola all joined the 2023 line-up too.
Who were the judges for Strictly Come Dancing 2023?
Of course, the multi-award-winning competition is not complete without its fabulous judges.
The judging panel this year saw Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Head Judge Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke all return.
News that all of last year's judges will be returning came as a relief to fans after there was speculation Shirley might be leaving after she admitted the show has taken its toll on her mental health after being targeted by trolls on social media.
During an appearance on This Morning Shirley said: "I love the job, I love the actual critiquing. I love to get tips and help people along the way, to move forward to be beautiful dancers and all that they can be.
"This year, I've got a wonderful gentleman called Harry Surplus who is doing my social media and he's getting rid of any of those messages. My son checks over everything because it really did take a little toll on my mental health for a minute. What I'm realising is everybody gets it, I'm not the only one."
Who presented Strictly Come Dancing 2023?
Hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman also returned to the show for another series. The pair have been co-presenting the series since 2010 and we couldn't imagine anyone else at the helm of the nation's favorite dancing competition!
The BBC revealed: "Presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will be back in the ballroom overseeing proceedings each weekend as a host of brand new celebrity contestants take to the floor in a bid to lift the coveted Glitterball Trophy."
Did Dave Arch return to Strictly Come Dancing?
Yes, fans were pleased to see Dave Arch and his wonderful band will once again provide the soundtrack to Saturday and Sunday nights all across the UK.
Who presented Strictly spin-off show, Strictly: It Takes Two?
Former Strictly professional dancer Janette Manrara returned for Strictly: It Takes Two 2023, but sadly Rylan left the show after joining the Strictly: It Takes Two team in 2019.
Replacing Rylan was Strictly 2022 star Fleur East. Speaking on her new role Fleur said, "I’m so excited to officially join the Strictly family! I had such an amazing time on the show last year and so cannot wait to be talking to the celebs each week on It Takes Two."
Who won Strictly Come Dancing 2022?
Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal won Strictly Come Dancing 2022, beating runners-up Helen Skelton and her dance partner Gorka Marquez, Molly Rainford and Carlos Gu and Fleur East with Vito Coppola to the glitterball trophy. After winning, Hamza said "Strictly Come Dancing is the best thing that has ever happened to me!".
Strictly Come Dancing 2023 trailer
The trailer shows the professional dancers performing a stunning routine which will open the launch show with a glitter-filled bang. The trailer was filmed at the Tate Britain in London.
There is also a sneaky look at the new celebrities showing off their best dance moves in a clip shared on the official Strictly Come Dancing Instagram page, too. Take a look below...
