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A former Strictly Come Dancing star has said that the judges have their 'favourites' as they suggested how they 'influence' who makes it through the competition.

The hit BBC One dance contest will make its big return to screens on Saturday night (September 27) with the first live show of the series.

It comes after the pre-recorded launch show last Saturday (September 20) saw hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman welcome the 15 new celebrity contestants - which is now without Dani Dyer following her shock withdrawal due to injury, with her replacement now announced - into the ballroom for the first time.

The 23rd series opener also saw Strictly's 2025 pairings revealed ahead of the first live show, which will see all the couples - which now includes Amber Davie

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