Celebrities Prepare for Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Showdown

Six celebrities are set to compete for the title of Strictly Come Dancing Christmas champion on December 25, 2023, in a pre-recorded special. This festive event marks the final appearance of hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, who have announced their departure from the show. The competition promises a blend of entertainment and festive spirit as participants showcase their dance skills.

Among the contenders is comedian and actor Babatunde Aleshe, who will perform a Charleston routine inspired by the popular Christmas tradition, Elf On The Shelf. The performance, featuring professional dancer Nancy Xu, will include a playful narrative where Aleshe portrays a mischievous elf attempting to coax Xu into joining his antics. Aleshe expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m a naughty elf that’s trying my hardest to convince Nancy to join in with the mischief and be naughty with me.”

The duo will dance to the classic holiday tune “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” by Bing Crosby, with Xu noting that Aleshe’s personality perfectly fits the character of the elf.

Also competing are singers Brian McFadden and Melanie Blatt, both of whom rose to fame in the late 1990s. McFadden, a former member of the boy band Westlife, will dance a jive alongside professional partner Michelle Tsiakkas to “Run Run Rudolph” by Kelly Clarkson. The 45-year-old shared his perspective on the competition, saying, “Going out in front of a live audience can be the part of Strictly that gets to some people. But for me it should be fine, because I’m used to performing every night, so that’s definitely an advantage for me.”

While McFadden acknowledges his extensive experience in live performances, he admits that the technical aspects of dancing are a new challenge. “There’s nothing from my music career that’s going to help me dancing-wise,” he remarked, emphasizing the pressure of adapting to the structured nature of dance.

Blatt, now 50, will perform an American smooth to “Santa Baby” by The Pussycat Dolls, partnering with Kai Widdrington. Reflecting on her dance journey, she noted the significant differences between her previous choreography with All Saints and the current demands of the competition. “I’ve got to have my shoulders back, and a proper frame, which is the complete opposite,” she explained, adding that her ability to count to eight has been beneficial.

Another competitor, Jodie Ounsley, known for her role on Gladiators, will showcase a street commercial dance to “Red Christmas” by Kylie Cantrall. At just 24 years old, she initially hesitated to join the show due to self-doubt but has gained confidence through the experience. “That’s all down to Neil for giving me that confidence,” Ounsley stated.

Former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt will perform a cha cha with partner Vito Coppola to “DJ Play A Christmas Song” by Cher. Moffatt teased viewers about her “camp” performance, hinting at plenty of spins and festive flair.

Completing the lineup is Nicholas Bailey, the EastEnders star who will take on a Viennese waltz to “It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year” by Andy Williams. The 54-year-old described the dance as disciplined yet lively, with elements of flirtation and energy.

The contestants will be judged by Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke. However, the ultimate decision will rest with the studio audience, who will cast their votes for the winner.

The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special will air on BBC One and iPlayer starting at 17:30 on Christmas Day, offering audiences a festive treat as they celebrate the final hosting of Winkleman and Daly.