Strictly Come Dancing 2019: Everything we know so far

Saturday night just isn’t the same without our weekly dose of Strictly, but thankfully it’s returning in a few months.

We can’t wait to see who’ll be taking to the dancefloor this series, and who’ll be replacing former ballerina Darcey Bussell on the Strictly Come Dancing judging panel.

We know you’re dying to find out more, so here’s everything we know about the new series so far.

When is Strictly Come Dancing back on TV?

The much-loved dancing competition is expected to return to BBC1 in September, just in time for cosy autumn nights in front of the TV.

2018’s line-up was announced at the end of August, with the launch show airing at the beginning of September.

Who are the Strictly Come Dancing contestants?

There are lots of rumours going around at the moment, but one man has already confirmed he’ll be taking part. Radio DJ Chris Evans revealed he’s “said yes” to Strictly 2019, joking that he’d agreed to go on the show because his wife “would like to go every week”.

Newsreader Huw Edwards revealed he’s “strongly considering” taking to the dancefloor, whilst former England football manager Sam Allerdyce reportedly in discussions with the BBC about appearing on the show.

Other rumoured names include Coronation Street’s Lucy Fallon, heiress Tamara Ecclestone, and even documentary filmmaker Louis Theroux. This is already getting interesting…

 

MORE: Shirley Ballas reveals what kind of judge she’s hoping will replace Darcey Bussell

Who are the Strictly pro dancers?

All the pros have been confirmed now, with fan favourites Anton du Beke, Kevin Clifton and AJ Pritchard raring to go for another series on the dancefloor.

Sadly Pasha Kovalev will not be joining the dancers, as he announced in February this year that he will be leaving the show.

Who are the judges?

Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli and Shirley Ballas are all returning to the panel, but we all know that Darcey Bussell won’t be.

The ballerina had been judging for seven series, and had decided to focus on other commitments in dance, adding “I hope that I may be very lucky to be asked back again one day”. It’s still not clear who will be taking her place this year.

Who are the Strictly Come Dancing hosts?

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are expected to return as hosts, as they’ve now become quite the double act and a hit amongst viewers everywhere.

MORE: Strictly Come Dancing bosses have ‘shortlisted three Royal Family members’ for upcoming series

Is Strictly filmed live?

Yes, it’s broadcast live every Saturday, with the Sunday nights results show pre-recorded.

When is the final?

A series of Strictly Come Dancing usually lasts for 13 weeks, meaning the grand final usually airs a week or two before Christmas.