Angela Rippon is set to return to the ballroom for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special.
The 82-year-old broadcaster, who made history as the show’s oldest-ever contestant in 2023, will be among a line-up of returning stars for the festive edition, following the popularity of last year’s alumni group performance in Blackpool.
Producers have reportedly decided to bring back former contestants for this year’s festive episode, inspired by the success of last year’s “alumni dance” during the Blackpool show.
A source told The Sun: "Angela is thrilled to have been asked to dance again and cannot wait to find out who she has been paired with.
"She danced with Kai Widdrington before and would love to perform with him again, but she has to wait and see.
"Angela was incredible when she first appeared on the show.
"Who could forget the moment she put her leg above her head?"
The Christmas special, unlike the main series, is pre-recorded, which may affect whether she can reunite with her previous partner.
Mr Widdrington is currently still in the competition with his celebrity partner, singer and actress Delta Goodrem.
A similar approach was last used in 2019 when Debbie McGee won the Christmas special alongside Kevin Clifton.
A source said: "Strictly love sprinkling some magic over their Christmas show – and what better way than bringing back some old favourites.
"It’s been seven years since they last did this on the festive episode and after seeing how well the alumni dance went at Blackpool last year, they’re bringing it back this Christmas.
"They’re currently casting for six previous stars to return to the dance floor."
Names rumoured to be in contention include Denise Van Outen, Georgia May Foote, and Maisie Smith.
Each returning celebrity is expected to perform a new festive-themed routine with a professional partner, as well as take part in the opening and closing group numbers.
The winner will receive the coveted Christmas star trophy.
The source added: "It’s going to be a mammoth show, which is going to be filmed in December before being shown on Christmas Day."
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