BBC confirms four legendary Strictly stars set to return for upcoming special episode

The BBC has confirmed that four legendary Strictly Come Dancing contestants will be returning to the dance floor this year.

As part of the hit show’s upcoming special at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, four previous celebrity contestants will be returning to dance with the professional cast.

Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams will all be showcasing their moves once again, when Strictly returns to Blackpool later this month.

Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams | BBC

The BBC has revealed that the special group routine will see them “each revisit one of their most famous Strictly moments, before coming together for a joyful celebration of dance”. The new routine will feature elements of Jay and Ashley’s Jives, Danny’s Samba, and Layton’s Quickstep.

Jay is the only Strictly winner amongst the four, as he was crowned champion in 2015. Danny reached the Strictly final in 2016, while Ashley became a finalist in 2018. Layton is the most recent Strictly contestant, having reached the final in 2023.

The group’s extraordinary routine will air during this year’s results show in Blackpool. Ahead of its broadcast, the four contestants have each released statements to express how much it means to them.

Strictly Come Dancing judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton du Beke | BBC

Ashley Roberts teased: “I’m so excited and grateful to be back on the shiny floor in Blackpool again. Nearly a decade later, let’s see if these jive legs can still do their thing! Sequins always help, I’m sure.”

Danny Mac gushed: “Dancing in Blackpool was an absolute highlight of my time on Strictly. To be heading back up to The Tower Ballroom once again is as thrilling as it is terrifying, but I can’t wait to be reunited with all the wonderful people who make this show.”

Jay McGuiness praised: “I feel extremely lucky to be part of the Strictly alumni that are going to shake our booties again. I’m ready to have some fun with the old gang and the new gang.”

Layton Williams added: “I’m absolutely buzzing to be back on THE most iconic dance floor there is. Blackpool brings back so many fab memories and it’s a true honour to be invited back… Let’s hope I’ve still got it, eh?!”

Strictly’s live Blackpool episode will take place on November 22, followed by the results show on November 23.