Strictly Come Dancing fans were left divided as some complained about a 'distracting' addition to the latest live show. It was the change viewers had been waiting for all series for as the seven remaining couples, the judges and the show's hosts ditched the usual Elstree studio.
As per the show's annual tradition, they headed to Blackpool for week nine of the BBC One dance contest as it continued for one week only in the iconic Tower Ballroom in the seaside town.
And things got off to a glitzy and energetic start with the hit show's group of professional dancers opening the show as they filled the sprung floor to a mega musical mash-up.
But the first couple to open the Blackpool special were Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell. The EastEnders actor and his professional dance partner got things off to a great star with a colourful jive to Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go by Wham! READ MORE: BBC Strictly Come Dancing couple have 'tactile connection' - but 'won't make final' READ MORE: Read more of today's top stories from the Manchester Evening News Head judge Shirley Ballas told Bobby: "You brought everything to this dance.
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