BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Claudia Winkleman distracts viewers minutes into episode for same reason
Claudia Winkleman had all eyes on her as Strictly Come Dancing's first live show got underway. The presenter was back co-hosting the hit BBC One dance contest alongside Tess Daly as the competition officially began.
The first episode of the new series actually aired last Saturday night and saw epic performances from the show's talented group of professional dancers but it was all about the official unveiling of this year's couples.
This Saturday night (September 21), however, was this weekend that the competition really got underway as all 15 of the new Strictly couples perform together for the first time.
READ MORE: BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Shayne Ward reveals adorable words from actress partner over show stint
But while all eyes should have been on the dancing, Claudia drew plenty of attention from viewers thanks to her unusual choice of outfit. The Traitors star was seen wearing a loose cream pantsuit that boasted huge sleeves and a belt to pull her in at the waist.
And it didn't take fans long to flock to social media and share exactly what the look reminded them of. @JayneHowarth said: "Claudia's channelling Star Wars chic #Strictly." @napqueen3000 commented: "Claudia is giving Princess Leia star wars realness. #Strictly." @_Dionne97_ asked: "Why is Claudia Winkleman dressed like she’s in Star Wars? #Strictly."
@megangoodier quipped: "Claudia’s outfit is giving when you’re presenting Strictly at 7 but defeating Darth Vader at 9 #Strictly." @JadeTandy96 shared: "Is Claudia attending a star wars convention or something? She's giving princess Leia vibes #Strictly." @Matineegirl added: "Claudia looking a tad Obi One Kenobi/Princess Leia on #Strictly tonight. May the force be with her."
Strictly Come Dancing’s first live show of 2024 kicked off with a routine from the professional dancers, who dressed in colourful outfits, danced to a medley of songs.
Following the opening number, hosts Claudia and Tess welcomed the 15 celebrities and their dance partners to the stage and said nobody would be leaving the competition this weekend.
The full list of celebrities taking part this year includes Olympic medalist and TV presenter Sam Quek, former footballer Paul Merson, TV presenter Nick Knowles, Gladiator Montell Douglas, Olympic swimmer Tom Dean, Eastenders actor Jamie Borthwick, Miranda actress Sarah Hadland and singer and actor Shayne Ward.
Also making up the line-up are TV personality and podcast host Pete Wicks, model and Love Island star Tasha Ghouri, BBC Morning Live's Dr Punam Krishan, singer Toyah Willcox, opera singer Wynne Evans, JLS star JB Gill, and comedian Chris McCausland.