Christmas Day television can be a mixed bag. You’ve got your heartwarming animated specials, your inevitable Doctor Who holiday episode, and then… well, there’s a lot of filler. But amidst the reruns and the Royal Variety Performance, BBC One reliably delivers a bit of sparkle with the “Strictly Come Dancing” Christmas Special. This year’s festive installment, airing Wednesday, December 25 at 3:55 PM, looks set to be no different, with a stocking full of familiar faces, some new celebrity hoofers, and a dash of Spice Girl magic.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman return to their hosting duties, providing their usual blend of enthusiastic encouragement and gentle ribbing. Six celebrities, whose identities are currently more closely guarded than the recipe for figgy pudding, will don their sequins and attempt to waltz, tango, and jive their way into the hearts of the judges and the viewing public. Who are these brave souls? Time will tell, but if past years are anything to go by, expect a mix of former “Strictly” contestants, soap stars, and the odd reality TV alum.
But the real bauble on this year’s Christmas tree is the appearance of none other than Baby Spice herself, Emma Bunton. She’ll grace the Strictly stage with a special performance, presumably not involving competitive ballroom dancing, though I wouldn’t rule out a surprise paso doble. Two group routines are also planned, because you can never have too much festive choreography on Christmas Day.
The 75-minute special should provide ample time for sequins, sambas, and the inevitable “Strictly” curse-related banter. Let’s face it, the show is a Christmas tradition at this point, and given the reliably high viewership, BBC One is banking on another ratings win. Will this year’s crop of celebrities deliver the holiday cheer? We’ll have to wait and see.
Remember to tune in to BBC One on Wednesday, December 25th at 3:55 PM for the “Strictly Come Dancing” Christmas Special.
