It was a night of high emotion, unexpected twists, and inspiring comebacks as Strictly Come Dancing launched its first live show of the 2025 season on Saturday, September 27. The BBC ballroom, already buzzing with anticipation, witnessed Olympian and Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey take to the dancefloor for a performance that would leave both him and the audience visibly moved.
Partnered with the ever-energetic Karen Hauer, Aikines-Aryeetey performed a spirited Cha Cha to Salt-N-Pepa’s classic hit “Push It.” The routine, full of high-energy moves and a memorable push-up, earned the pair a score of 19 from the judges. But it wasn’t just the dance steps or the score that captured viewers’ hearts—it was the raw emotion that followed.
Reflecting on the performance, Aikines-Aryeetey’s voice trembled as he shared his journey. “I’ve dreamt of that moment, this time last year I just wasn’t able to do anything like that, and I never thought I’d be myself again, it just feels so nice to be myself, I had an injury,” he said, according to BBC. “I dreamt of that moment, and even though I did Christmas I wasn’t 100% there and now I’m 100% so I’m thankful.”
For those who have followed his career, it was a poignant reminder of the challenges athletes face away from the spotlight. Just a year ago, Aikines-Aryeetey was uncertain if he’d walk or run again, let alone cha cha across a national stage. He admitted, “This time last year I wasn’t able to do anything like that.” Dreaming of a comeback, he pressed on through recovery, and Saturday night’s dance was more than just a routine—it was a personal victory.
The emotional moment didn’t go unnoticed by the show’s judges or the audience. Judge Anton Du Beke, clearly caught up in the spirit of the performance, leapt onto the stage to replicate the push-up from the dance, standing on Aikines-Aryeetey’s back as the crowd erupted in laughter. It was a lighthearted gesture that underscored the camaraderie and joy at the heart of Strictly’s opening night.
But the night wasn’t just about one comeback. The show opened with former England rugby player Chris Robshaw and his professional partner Nadiya Bychkova, who brought a samba to the floor set to EMF’s “Unbelievable.” The pair scored 14, with Bychkova jokingly dubbing their effort the “scrumba.” Judge Shirley Ballas offered encouragement, noting, “Well, I was quite impressed when you came down, that you didn’t look nervous, and I think that you’ve got the actual frame, probably, of a ballroom dancer as well. So we’ve got some good ingredients in the bag for sure. There was some timing issues, a little bit for me, along the way here, some timing issues, I’m sure that you know, a little bit on the flat feet. So we have a competition, got plenty of time to go.”
Elsewhere, the night saw a series of standout performances and a few Strictly firsts. Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis teamed up with reigning champion Dianne Buswell for a foxtrot to the iconic Neighbours theme tune, scoring an impressive 22 despite judge Craig Revel Horwood’s observation that it was “littered with mistakes.”
One of the most heartwarming moments came from model Ellie Goldstein, who made history as the first person with Down’s syndrome to compete on the main series of Strictly. Dancing the cha cha to Ariana Grande’s “Yes, And?” with partner Vito Coppola, Goldstein scored 17 and was gifted a fan by Shirley Ballas in recognition of her performance. Judge Revel Horwood praised her, saying, “You do possess gorgeous, natural rhythm, and I love the detail in your fingers and hands darling.” The dance also happened to coincide with Coppola’s birthday, adding to the celebratory mood.
Another highlight of the evening featured Doctor Who actress Alex Kingston and Johannes Radebe, who delivered a graceful waltz to Justin Timberlake’s “Cry Me A River,” earning a score of 21. Judge Anton Du Beke described their performance as “super duper,” a phrase that seemed to capture the spirit of the night—supportive, enthusiastic, and full of promise for the weeks ahead.
Not all the drama unfolded on the dancefloor. At the start of the show, presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly announced a significant change to the lineup. Amber Davies, a former Love Island winner, was welcomed as the new contestant, stepping in for Dani Dyer-Bowen, who had to withdraw after fracturing her ankle during rehearsals. Winkleman addressed the change with warmth, saying, “Dani, we will miss you so much, and all of us are sending you all our love.” The show’s ability to adapt and rally around its cast members was on full display, a testament to its enduring appeal.
In a twist to the usual format, there was no results show scheduled for Sunday. All contestants were set to return for next Saturday’s episode, with the judges’ scores from this week rolling over. This decision, as reported by BBC, means the pressure is on for every couple to make the most of their early performances, knowing their fate will be determined after a second week of dancing.
As the glitter settled and the music faded, the sense of community and resilience among the contestants was palpable. From Aikines-Aryeetey’s emotional comeback to Goldstein’s historic dance, the opening night of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 offered viewers a blend of entertainment, inspiration, and a few surprises. It’s clear that this year’s competition is about more than just footwork—it’s about overcoming obstacles, chasing dreams, and celebrating every step forward, no matter how small.
Strictly’s first live show of 2025 has set the tone for a season where courage, laughter, and a little bit of sparkle go a long way. With scores rolling over and the competition wide open, all eyes will be on the dancefloor next Saturday as the contestants return, ready to dazzle once again.
