Now the full star-studded line up for the 2021 series of Strictly Come Dancing has been announced, the first episode of the BBC ballroom competition could air within a matter of weeks.
Although no official announcement has been made regarding when this year's show will kick off, publicity for the hit BBC show is in full swing - hinting that the much-loved series could be back on our screens very soon.
Earlier this week, the final few famous faces of this year's contestants were revealed - with BBC News broadcaster Dan Walker, Olympian Adam Peaty and Loose Women presenter Judi Love being announced as the final three showbiz stars to make up the 15 strong cast.
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While none of the celebrity hopefuls have even took to the iconic dance floor yet, bookies are already taking bets on who will take home the coveted Glitterball trophy later this year.
Irish bookmaker Paddy Power has McFly star Tom Fletcher as the favourite to waltz his way to victory, with odds of 5/1 being offered on the singer and children's author being crowned the outright winner.
Joint second favourites are comedian Robert Webb and BBC star Dan Walker - both given impressive odds of 6/1 to beat the other famous faces and wow judges and viewers.
Former Eastenders star Nina Wadia is ranked as a major outsider - with generous odds of 25/1 being given to anyone wanting to take a chance on the 52-year-old actress.
The Goodness Gracious Me star was unveiled on ITV’s Lorraine last week and said: “I’ve always danced like nobody’s watching, so if we blindfold the judges I could actually win Strictly 2021.”
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She added: “I think I should do this before I’m too old any more. I think this is last year I’m ever wearing heels. I think there’s a lot happened in the last couple of years and I just want to grab life by the balls.”
Other stars confirmed for the show include TV presenter AJ Odudu, Great British Bake Off winner John Thwaite, former Coronation Street actress Katie McGlynn and Gordon Ramsey's daughter, Tilly Ramsay.
While many find love with their dancing partner during their time on the show, 19-year-old Tilly is under strict orders from her celebrity chef dad not to get too close with her teammate.
As the teenager's place on Strictly Come Dancing was confirmed during an episode of This Morning earlier this week, dad Gordon had a message for his daughter and her unknown dancing partner.
Speaking via a video message, the Scottish star said: “Hey Tils it’s your dad – TikTok coach, dance extraordinaire… wishing you all the very best.”
The culinary star couldn’t help but add: “And don’t date those dancers!”
Tilly didn't seem too phased by his words of warning, saying: “Of course he had to slip in something embarrassing!”
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While viewers were eager to find out who would be competing on this year's series, Strictly fans have also been keen to see the return of some familiar faces.
The return of the main show's spin-off series, It Takes Two will see much-loved presenter Rylan Clark Neal back on our screens after spending some time away from the spotlight.
The popular 32-year-old sadly announced his split from husband Dan Neal earlier this year, going on to step back from his career commitments to focus on his well-being.
However, the former X Factor star is ready and raring to go as he continues his presenting duties without former co-host Zoe Ball, who quit the BBC2 show back in May.
Rylan will be joined by Strictly Come Dancing professional Janette Manrara when the week-night sister show returns in the coming weeks, and insiders claim he's looking forward to his big comeback.
Speaking to The Sun, a source said: “Rylan’s spent time away from the spotlight focusing on his wellbeing surrounded by friends and family.
“He’s now hopefully to make his return to telly as he’s missed working.
They added: “It’s all looking positive and the team at It Takes Two always have a lot of fun filming. It’s a joyful show to work on.
“Of course, everyone backstage wants what’s best for Rylan and aren’t putting pressure on him.”
