Annabel Croft's life was turned upside down in May this year when her husband passed away after a sudden cancer diagnosis. The Strictly star spoke of her loss on the show on Saturday

Strictly Come Dancing turns 21 this year by number of series. You can track your life through it: births, marriages, deaths, house moves, relationships, childre

The show also featured a poignant tribute to the late Len Goodman and sent a message to their 'Welsh dragon' Amy Dowden, who is currently battling cancer.

Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke are back to cast their expert eyes over the celebrities

Strictly Come Dancing 2023 viewers think they might already know this year's winner, after seeing the celebrities perform on the BBC series for the first time on Saturday

The British television icon shared a phrase with his new partner

The cast of Strictly Come Dancing shared their memories of the beloved icon, who lost his battle with bone cancer earlier this year at the age of 78.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman had viewers crying

Strictly Come Dancing stars paid tribute to late former judge Len Goodman on the show, months on from his death. Craig Revel Horwood fought back tears as he spoke of his 'best friend'

Viewers were left crying at the emotional messages

It’s back! Our 15 plucky celebrities met their pro partners, while the judges hit the dancefloor, reigning champion Hamza Yassin returned and emotional tribute was paid to the late Len Goodman

"I would love to say goodbye to him."

They were distracted from the action by the same issue

Professionals show the love to Amy who has been battling cancer

The TV star, who hosts BBC Two’s Your Home Made Perfect, will dance with Strictly professional Carlos Gu, who joined the line-up last year.

The celebrities will next take to the dance floor on September 23.

The launch episode saw the celebs meeting their partners before taking to the dance floor for the first time in a disco themed group routine.