Ashley Banjo's Flirty Dancing returns to Channel 4 and warms everyone's hearts

From Digital Spy

Channel 4's Flirty Dancing returned for its new series tonight (November 8) and viewers were certainly happy to see it come back.

Dancing on Ice judge Ashley Banjo acts as the show's matchmaker and choreographer who brings singletons together by teaching them a dancing routine separately. The couple then dance their routine the first time they go on a date.

In Friday's episode, Ashley introduced two pairs of singletons – 23-year-old music fan Kerry got coupled up with 26-year-old musician and cheerleading coach Jordan. Next, care advisor Nife got paired with fashion retail assistant Shaun.

Related: Dancing on Ice's Ashley Banjo reveals how he will judge fellow Diversity member Perri Kiely on the show

After getting to know Kerry and Jordan a bit more, Ashley created a dance that combined their creative personalities, while adding an epic spin that Ashley said would help Jordan sweep Kerry off her feet.

And honestly, it wasn't just Kerry who was swept off her feet. Viewers watching at home were, too. Everyone was in love with the couple's sweet chemistry:

Next were Shaun and Nife who danced on a rooftop on their first date. Ashley said that the key with this couple was for both contestants to show their romantic and vulnerable side in order to make a connection.

And did they connect? Aw, they did, for sure. There were some incredible moves from both of them, a heartwarming hug, and a pretty great lift as well.

Fans praised Shaun and Nife's dance as "hot" and "electric". Sparks were flying everywhere:

Each couple were then given a date and time to meet for again and it was up to each contestant to decide if they wanted to turn up.

It was a success for both couples as Kerry turned up to meet Jordan at the beach, while Shaun met with Nife at the pub.

Overall, viewers praised the return of the series and applauded it for being "uplifting" and "heartwarming":

The episode's end brought the lovely news that the two couples have gone on more dates, with both of the pairs enjoying their time together.

Simply heartwarming.

Flirty Dancing airs on Channel 4.

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