Why Strictly Come Dancing won’t return to Blackpool this year

Strictly Come Dancing is to miss its traditional trip to Blackpool for a second year.

The new series is currently airing on Saturday nights and most things are back to normal after last year’s show saw forced changes to the pandemic.

A full line up of fifteen celebrities make up the cast with themed weeks such as Movies and Halloween returning together with a live studio audience.

However one change still in place due to the pandemic means show won’t be heading north to the Blackpool Tower Ballroom for a second year in a row.

Executive producer Sarah James explained: “We’re so thrilled that Strictly will be returning for a full-length series this year, and know how much viewers are looking forward to getting their full Strictly fix and seeing the return of much-loved specials.”

She added: “We are all so sad that we won’t be able to get to Blackpool this year but can’t wait to be back dancing at the one and only Blackpool Tower Ballroom in the future.”

An insider revealed back in July that producers had to make an early decision about the trip due to the “advanced planning and logistics required”.

Strictly continues Saturday and Sunday nights on BBC One.

Those currently left on the lineup are BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker, soap star Rose Ayling-Ellis, singer Tom Fletcher and telly presenter AJ Odudu.

Joining them are TV presenter and actor Rhys Stephenson, business guru and TV personality Sara Davies, influencer, chef and TV presenter Tilly Ramsay and TV presenter and chef John Whaite.

Meanwhile the BBC has announced four brand new pro dancers for this year’s series.

Joining the show former Dancing With The Stars Ireland professional Kai Widdrington; former Let’s Dance Germany professional Nikita Kuzmin; reigning South African Latin Champion Cameron Lombard; and winner of BBC One’s The Greatest Dancer 2020, Jowita Przystal.

Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse return as judges with Anton Du Beke joining the judges this series.

Bruno Tonioli is unable to take part in 2021 due to ongoing travel and quarantine restrictions due to the pandemic.

Picture: BBC