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.

Tess Daly, who is back presenting the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing alongside co-host Claudia Winkleman, looked sensational in a gold halterneck dress which flattered her figure perfectly

Strictly Come Dancing 2023 will launch on BBC One on Saturday, September 16 as this year's couples are revealed

See which celebrity contestants the professional dancers have been paired with for Strictly Come Dancing 2023 as first episode airs.

Fans were gutted for Neil but some think they know why he wasn't chosen to dance with a celebrity

Nadiya Bychkova is not on Strictly Come Dancing 2023

STRICTLY dance pro couple Nadiya Bychkova and Kai Widdrington have been putting on their own show with passionate displays of affection backstage. The pair were seen kissing and cuddling in between…

We finally know who will be dancing with who for the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing 2023. 

All of this year's Strictly couple were announced during Saturday's launch show, but some fans were left disappointed

"We're in it to try and win it. And we have just got to give it our best shot."