Strictly Come Dancing 2022 postponed following Queen Elizabeth II's death

Strictly Come Dancing 2022 has been postponed following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

It was announced on September 8, 2022, that Queen Elizabeth II died aged 96 at her home, Balmoral Castle. The sad news shocked people across the UK and a mourning period began in the UK.

In light of the news, it's been announced that the first episode of Strictly Come Dancing 2022 will be pushed back until after the Queen's funeral has taken place. 

The pre-recorded launch show was set to air on Saturday, September 17, 2022. However, bosses have now confirmed with the Daily Mail, that the launch will air on Saturday, September 23, with the first live episode taking place the day after on Sunday, September 24.

While government guidelines do not state that television shows and events must be canceled during the Queen's mourning period, many shows have been rescheduled due to extensive news coverage. 

The BBC will now air Paddington movies in a sweet homage to the Queen. The first of the Paddington films will air on Saturday when Strictly was scheduled to take place. On the evening of the monarch's funeral Paddington 2 will air, as another respectful, yet sweet way to bring the country together in memory of Queen Elizabeth II.

Paddington has a particularly sentimental link to Her Majesty as the Queen's Paddington performance was one of the most beloved and memorable moments of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. 

Many speculated that The Great British Bake Off 2022 would also be postponed, however, Channel 4 aired the first episode as planned on September 14.