BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans spot Zara McDermott in audience during first live show

Zara McDermott with boyfriend Sam Thompson in the audience of Strictly Come Dancing
-Credit: (Image: BBC)


Eagle-eyed fans of Strictly Come Dancing have spotted a 'controversial' figure in last night's live show.

The hit BBC One dancing competition aired its first live show last night (Saturday, September 21), the first time all 15 couples performed their routines. The programme started off with a performance from the professional dancers, all dressed in colourful outfits, before presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman got things started.

Opening the competition was DIY SOS star Nick Knowles and his dance partner Luba Mushtuk with a jive. Nick was celebrating his 62nd birthday and donned an orange hi-vis jacket with Mushtuk, 34, to We Built This City by Starship, the Manchester Evening News reports.

READ MORE: BBC Strictly Come Dancing viewers ask 'was that a kiss' as stars get close in first live show

Of their performance, judge Anton Du Beke said it was "uplighting" and added that he felt “elated” after watching it. Scoring 18 points from the judges, Nick was gifted a cake from professional dancer Carlos Gu who appeared in a hi-vis and builder’s hat.

Former field hockey player Sam Quek and Nikita Kuzmin performed a foxtrot to Where Did Our Love Go by The Supremes also performed in the show. Sam, who was given 23 points from the judges, was told by Motsi Mabuse that she was “shining” while head judge Shirley Ballas told her she had "attitude".

Nick Knowles was given a birthday cake in the show
Nick Knowles was given a birthday cake in the show

Despite the memorable routines, some viewers were distracted by goings-on in the audience. Famous faces could be seen peppered in the crowd, including the return of one former Strictly star, Zara McDermott.

The former Love Island star was sat next to her boyfriend Sam Thompson as they supported their close friend, Pete Wicks. The couple were sporting matching t-shirts branded with a shirtless snap of Pete to encourage fans to vote.

However, fans were quick to point out Zara's recent inclusion in headlines based on her experience on the dancing show. Her troubling experience saw her professional partner, Graziano Di Prima axed from Strictly.

@cantgroundlenny said: "I knew Sam would be in the audience, surprised at Zara though... cameraman quickly cut away #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing." @Survivinthe20s commented: "Controversial of Sam and Zara sitting there in the audience #Strictly." @alexaxx12 added: "Zara McDermott in the audience #Strictly."

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