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Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Trailer shows celebrity contestants dance together ahead of series launch

Voiceover encourages fans to 'feel the Strictly effect'

Roisin O'Connor
Sunday 03 September 2017 11:20 BST
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Strictly Come Dancing 2017 - Launch Trailer

The 15 Strictly Come Dancing contestants have been pictured together for the first time in a trailer for the new series.

Contestant Alexandra Burke is heard singing the theme tune as a voiceover tells fans to "feel the Strictly effect".

TV presenter Ruth Langsford gets a starring moment as she stands on a plinth as her fellow dancers wave feather fans around her.

This year's competition launches on 9 September on BBC.

As well as Burke and Langsford, the other celebrities taking part are: former member of The Saturdays Mollie King; chef Simon Rimmer; TV and stage performer Debbie McGee; former JLS member Aston Merrygold; sprint runner Jonnie Peacock; Scottish comedian Susan Calman; comedian Brian Conley; TV presenter Charlotte Hawkins; actress Gemma Atkinson; actor Joe McFadden; actor Davood Ghadami; actress Chizzy Akudolu and Reverend Richard Coles.

The opening spectacular will feature music from Shania Twain and Rita Ora. It will see the return of judges Bruno Tonioli, Craig Revel Horwood and Darcey Bussell, and introduce new head judge Shirley Ballas, who replaces Len Goodman.

Former Strictly host Sir Bruce Forsyth will also be paid tribute to after he passed away aged 89 in August.

“The thoughts of everyone here at are still very much with Sir Bruce’s family,” a statement from Louise Rainbow, executive producer, said.

“Of course, we will be paying tribute to Sir Bruce at our launch show and this will include a heartfelt performance from out Strictly professional dancers.

“We want to celebrate him and all that he loved about the show. Sir Bruce was, and will always be, a huge part of Strictly Come Dancing.”

The new season of Strictly Come Dancing begins Saturday 9 September at 7pm on BBC One.

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