The festive cheer of the holiday season has swept across the television screens of millions with the announcement of the winner of the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special. This year, history was made as Tayce, the show's first drag artist, and her professional dance partner, Kai Widdrington, claimed the coveted trophy, delighting audiences and judges alike with their captivating performance.
Tayce dazzled with her Cha-Cha to Kylie and Dannii Minogue’s catchy tune “100 Degrees,” which earned her and Widdrington the highest score possible—four perfect 10s from the panel. The judges could hardly hide their delight, applauding the style and execution of the performance. “What a way to celebrate the season!” one judge exclaimed, highlighting the magic of this unique holiday broadcast.
The Christmas special aired just after the conclusion of the regular series, which had showcased many talented celebrities, including last year’s victor Jamie Borthwick. Borthwick, best known for his role on EastEnders, impressed producers so much during his stint on the show last year, he received an invitation back to compete again, joining this festive affair for another chance at the spotlight.
This year’s installment was hosted once again by fan-favorites Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, bringing their signature warmth to the proceedings. Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Shirley Ballas took to the judges’ desk, providing spirited feedback as they cheered on the contestants. The opening number was lively, featuring group routines, and the holiday spirit soared with performances capped off by Leona Lewis's heartfelt rendition of “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day.”
Alongside Tayce and Kai, the special was filled with stiff competition, featuring five other pairs, including Josh Widdicombe and Karen Hauer and Tamzin Outhwaite and Nikita Kuzmin. Each couple brought to life their own brand of joy and artistry—perfectly embodying the spirit of Christmas and demonstrating the festive talent on display.
Interestingly, the Christmas lights event this year was also highlighted by Craig Revel Horwood, who also serves as one of the show's judges. Recently, he took the opportunity to illuminate the Christmas lights in Stamford, illustrating his vibrant community spirit. Horwood humorously reflected on his own childhood Christmases during interviews, recalling, “I grew up in Australia, so Christmas was hot. One year all my chocolates melted together in my Christmas stocking.”
He shared tales of his unique family dinners from childhood, adding warmth and laughter to the memories. “My dad, who was in the navy, would make dinner and serve it after it was microwaved; if you were first, it felt quite lonely at the table!” Such insights add depth to his public persona and remind audiences of the personal connections woven within the holiday traditions.
On November 21st, Horwood had the chance to switch on the festive lights and spoke to the gathered crowd about his motivation and experiences since moving to King’s Cliffe, commenting: “I absolutely adore it. I’m very excited about plunging this baby so we are out of darkness andinto glamour.” Adding to the comic factor, he quipped about technical troubles mid-event, jesting, “someone’s pulled our plug,” only to later chuckle wisely, “It was me - I didn’t push it down enough.”
The event captured the heart of the community, enhancing the spirit of Christmas and reminding all of the joy and unity the season brings. This festive special has been instrumental not only for Tayce and Widdrington as they excitedly took home the sparkling Christmas trophy, but also for the viewers who waited with bated breath for the results.
The sheer energy and positivity exuded from the dance floor this year reveal just how much the festive have become intertwined with British culture, and the return of the Christmas special adds another layer to the rich history of Strictly Come Dancing. Audiences can look forward to more heartwarming performances as the next full series gears up for its return.
