New Strictly Come Dancing 2021 series confirmed with trip to Blackpool

The series managed to go ahead last year, despite the challenges of the pandemic, but was unable to make its annual trip to the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

But Strictly bosses have now confirmed the show is set to return it to the resort this year, as it reveals plans for its upcoming series.

This year’s series is due to air its first episode on Saturday, September 25, with the grand finale taking place on December 18.

A source told The Sun: "Strictly and the BBC set the gold standard last year in terms of putting a show on during a pandemic.

"They worked incredibly hard and they managed to keep instances of Covid-19 right down. There were rigorous protocols in place.

"They’re going to use what they learned to put on a full series this year.

"That means 13 episodes will be returning — and all of the themed weeks."

The source continued, saying everyone on the show was "really excited" about the prospect of heading back to Blackpool for a show.

The show was hit by several cases of coronavirus last year with some couples needing to withdraw from the competition.

This included the show's first ever same-sex dance pairing, world champion boxer Nicola Adams and professional Katya Jones.

Because of the disruptions, bosses also had to run four highlights shows instead of a live event.