Mike Smith
Here’s everything you need to know about Strictly Come Dancing 2025 (Series 23), including the start date, contestants, judges, hosts, professional dancers, and how to watch live or on demand.
How to watch Strictly Come Dancing Series 23 outside the UK on BBC iPlayer
To watch Strictly Come Dancing Season 23 outside the UK, first install a premium VPN and connect to a UK server. Then log in or create a free BBC iPlayer account, which gives you access to every episode both live and on demand. With this setup, you can follow all the glitter, drama, and excitement of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 live and on demand, no matter where you are in the world.
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a UK-based server.
- Open BBC iPlayer website or launch its app, then login or sign up for a new account. A UK postal code is required for registration. You can use a UK postcode generator if needed.
- Watch Strictly Come Dancing 2025 – Season 23 online!
What Is This Year’s Strictly Come Dancing About?
Strictly Come Dancing is back for its 23rd series, bringing a fresh mix of transformation, glamour, and entertainment to Saturday nights. Across the season, 15 celebrities will pair with professional dancers to take on ballroom and Latin styles, from the Waltz and Tango to the Cha Cha and Salsa. With themed weeks like Movies, Halloween, and the iconic Blackpool special, plus live music, group routines, and dazzling performances, this year’s show promises to be one of the most memorable yet.
When and What Time Does Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Start?
New series of Strictly Come Dancing officially begins on Saturday, 20th September 2025 at 6:40 p.m.. Episodes will be broadcast weekly on Saturday evenings, followed by the results show on Sundays, and every instalment will be available to stream on demand straight after broadcast via BBC iPlayer.
Where to Watch Strictly Come Dancing Season 23
You can watch Strictly Come Dancing Season 23 live on BBC One, with every episode also available to stream on demand via BBC iPlayer. The platform includes the full series, backstage clips, and exclusive extras at no cost with a TV licence.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Full Contestants List
The Strictly Come Dancing 2025 celebrity contestants are:
- Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Nitro) – Olympian and Gladiators star
- Dani Dyer – TV personality and author
- Alex Kingston – Award-winning actor
- Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink – Former professional footballer and manager
- Balvinder Sopal – Actor (EastEnders)
- George Clarke – YouTuber and podcaster
- La Voix – Drag performer and presenter
- Chris Robshaw – Former England rugby captain
- Ellie Goldstein – Model and actor
- Thomas Skinner – TV personality and businessman
- Vicky Pattison – TV star and presenter
- Stefan Dennis – Actor (Neighbours)
- Ross King – Hollywood correspondent and broadcaster
- Karen Carney – Former Lioness and sports pundit
- Lewis Cope – Emmerdale actor
Who Is Hosting Strictly Come Dancing 2025?
- Tess Daly – Returning as co-host, a role she has held since the very first series.
- Claudia Winkleman – Returning for her signature mix of wit, charm, and warmth.
Together, Tess and Claudia remain the heart of Strictly Come Dancing live shows every weekend.
Who Are the Judges at Strictly Come Dancing 2025?
The judging panel for Strictly Come Dancing Series 23 features:
- Shirley Ballas – Head Judge
- Craig Revel Horwood – Known for his sharp critiques and iconic “Fab-u-lous” paddles
- Motsi Mabuse – Bringing passion and energy
- Anton Du Beke – Ballroom legend turned judge
Who Is Performing at Strictly Come Dancing 2025?
The launch show of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 features live music by Jessie J, alongside a group dance spectacular with the professional dancers. Expect more world-class musical acts throughout the season during results shows and themed specials.
Can You Watch Strictly Come Dancing 2025 for Free?
Yes. Strictly Come Dancing is available to watch for free on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, but you need a valid UK TV licence.
Is Strictly Come Dancing Series Suitable for All Ages?
Yes. Strictly Come Dancing series is family-friendly entertainment suitable for all ages. Its mix of humour, glamour, and accessible storytelling through dance appeals to children, adults, and grandparents alike.
List of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Professional Dancers
Here’s the full line-up of Strictly Come Dancing Season 23 professionals:
- Aljaž Škorjanec
- Amy Dowden MBE
- Carlos Gu
- Dianne Buswell
- Gorka Márquez
- Johannes Radebe
- Jowita Przystal
- Kai Widdrington
- Karen Hauer
- Katya Jones
- Lauren Oakley
- Luba Mushtuk
- Michelle Tsiakkas
- Nadiya Bychkova
- Nancy Xu
- Neil Jones
- Nikita Kuzmin
- Vito Coppola
- New: Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon
Strictly Come Dancing Season 23 Episodes
Here’s the episode list for Strictly Come Dancing 2025:
Episode 1 – Launch Show (Premiere date: Saturday, 20 September 2025)
Episode 2 (Premiere date: Saturday, 27 September 2025)
Episode 3 (Premiere date: Sunday, 28 September 2025)
Episode 4 (Premiere date: Saturday, 4 October 2025)
Episode 5 (Premiere date: Sunday, 5 October 2025)
Episode 6 (Premiere date: Saturday, 11 October 2025)
Episode 7 (Premiere date: Sunday, 12 October 2025)
Episode 8 (Premiere date: Saturday, 18 October 2025)
Episode 9 (Premiere date: Sunday, 19 October 2025)
Episode 10 (Premiere date: Saturday, 25 October 2025)
Where Can I Download Strictly Come Dancing Series 23 Full Episodes?
You can download Strictly Come Dancing Series 23 full episodes directly from the BBC iPlayer app. Simply sign in with your free account, choose the episode, and tap the download option. The episodes will stay available offline for up to 30 days after download.
FAQs
Q1: Will Blackpool Week return in Strictly 2025?
Yes. The much-loved Blackpool Tower Ballroom episode is set to return mid-season, bringing one of Strictly’s most iconic nights back to the spotlight.
Q2: Can I vote online for Strictly Come Dancing 2025?
Yes. Viewers can vote for their favourite couples on the BBC website or via the BBC app, with free online voting available each week.
Q3: Are there any new changes in Strictly Come Dancing Season 23?
Yes. Producers have teased new dance challenges, refreshed set design, and updated musical arrangements, alongside the introduction of two brand-new professional dancers.
Q4: Will there be a Christmas Special for Strictly 2025?
Yes. Strictly traditionally ends the year with a Christmas Special, featuring past contestants and festive group routines.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025
Here’s the trailer:
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