BBC show Strictly Come Dancing's launch date was revealed as the opening nine celebrities were unveiled for the 2025 series.Jon Kay made a huge announcement after three new celebrities were announced, as he confirmed the first live show will be September 20. With excitement mounting for the 23rd season of the beloved BBC show, three fresh faces were disclosed on Wednesday (August 13). Having previously secured second place in RuPaul's Drag Race UK, drag performer La Voix has already been tipped by viewers as a frontrunner to claim the coveted Glitterball trophy.

La Voix, who also progressed to the semi-finals of Britain's Got Talent and featured on ITV's Queens For The Night, described Strictly as a 'national institution' and declared she 'can't wait to get started'.

Wednesday's announcements also included former England rugby skipper Chris Robshaw, who guided his country to a Six Nations Grand Slam triumph in 2016, reports Manchester Evening News.

"This is about as far out of my comfort zone as it gets! I'm hoping to take my dad dancing to a whole new level, and my mum can't wait to drag me along to her Zumba class. Let's see if a rugby sidestep works in the Cha Cha Cha," he said.

Completing the trio of major reveals was model, performer and social media personality Ellie Goldstein, who became the first model with Down syndrome to appear on the front cover of British Vogue.

Having collaborated with brands including Gucci Beauty and Adidas, Ellie has demonstrated a keen passion for acting recently, taking on a guest leading role in CBBC's Mallory Towers. "I'm absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast and pros of Strictly Come Dancing this year. It's a show I've loved watching for so long, and the chance to now be part of it feels like a dream.

"I know it's going to be challenging, but I'm ready to do it with the glitter and glamour and make some magic on that dance floor. Let the Strictly journey begin," she said.

Following Ellie's announcement on BBC Breakfast, presenter Jon Kay unveiled the premiere date at the end of their chat.

He informed viewers: "Strictly starts on the 20th September."

Although the BBC had not officially announced the new season's start date, it was widely speculated to be Saturday, September 20.

Also mastering the art of dance this year are Gladiator's Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, former Love Island champion Dani Dyer, Doctor Who's Alex Kingston and football legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.

With more names to be confirmed in due course, EastEnders actress Belvinder Sopal and YouTuber George Clarke were also confirmed this week.