Strictly’s former finalists ‘really excited’ to return to Blackpool

Former Strictly Come Dancing finalists have said they are “really excited” to return to the show for its Blackpool specials.

Actor Layton Williams, Pussycat Dolls singer Ashley Roberts, The Wanted star Jay McGuiness and actor Danny Mac will perform on the BBC dancing programme’s results show on Sunday.

Speaking before the show, Roberts, 44, who reached the programme’s final in 2018, said: “It’s been seven years since I did Strictly now and I can’t believe I’m now back.

“Blackpool is the marker, right? Everybody wants to get there. It’s truly legendary and iconic. I want that bouncy floor giving me a little extra something-something on the night.

“Blackpool was a huge night for me. It was my first time getting 10s across the board with Pasha, so I’m really excited to be asked back to dance with Danny, Jay, Layton and all of the pros.”

The former contestants will revisit their best-known Strictly moments before coming together during their routine.

McGuiness, 35, who was crowned Strictly champion in 2015, advised the current contestants to “listen to the music” saying “the clues are all in the music”.

He added: “I feel I am having flashbacks to pre-show anxiety. Like, who gets the chance to come back to Strictly? It’s very, very rare.

“I wanted Strictly to have me back ever since it first happened. So I feel so lucky and I can’t believe I’m here, it’s really cool.”

Former Bad Education actor Williams, 31, who was a finalist in 2023, said he thought the current contestants were “killing it” and told them to “enjoy the ride”.

He added: “I’m so gassed to be back. I never thought I’d dance at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom ever again, so to be invited back is an honour.”

Hollyoaks star Mac, 37, who reached the show’s final in 2016, said his favourite moment during his time on the show was getting his first 40 score.

On his return, he added: “It’s a big mixture of emotions. The most prevalent one is probably feeling quite physically sick.

“I’ve been back to Elstree Studios to watch the show and it’s just pure excitement, gratitude and joy because they are all the things you get from just being in the place.

“But as soon as you attach the idea of performing again it just gets quite terrifying.”

The results show will also feature a performance from singer Lewis Capaldi, accompanied by Strictly’s professional dancers.

Strictly Come Dancing will continue this weekend on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 6.30pm on Saturday, where the remaining couples will fight for their place at Blackpool.

The live Blackpool special on Saturday, November 22, will feature a performance from pop group Steps, accompanied by the Strictly professional dancers, celebrities and the show’s four judges.

This weekend’s episodes will feature a performance from singer Olly Murs, plus the first collaboration between the Strictly professionals and award-winning dance troupe Diversity, for a group number that mixes hip hop with Hollywood.