Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Debbie McGee stuns judges with Paso Doble

Strictly Come Dancing’s back, an impressive roster of celebrities taking to the dance floor, trying to win that coveted trophy.

One surprise from the first competitive night was Debbie McGee, the former broadcaster and TV personality stunning the judges and audience at home.

The 58-year-old’s debut dance, a Paso Doble to ‘Be Italian’, racked up an impressive 30-point score, the second highest of the evening, only behind former JLS member Aston Merrygold.

Judge Craig Revel Horwood said she had the legs of a 20-year-old, with both Darcey Bussell and new head judge Shirley Ballas giving a standing ovation.

McGee — who was married to the late magician Paul Daniels — danced with partner Giovanni Pernice. Before the performance, McGee commented on her fitness, saying: “I do pilates and yoga, so I’m reasonably flexible but have a lot more to work on.”

Overall, it was an emotional night as celebrities — including Joe McFadden, Susan Calman, Alexandra Burke and Ruth Langsford — took to the dancefloor.

The judges were on top form, with Ballas settling in nicely, handling an accidental groping from Bruno Tonioli with style but stumbling slightly with names as she called Chizzy Akudolu “Lizzie”. Read all about the evening here.