The stars of Strictly Come Dancing pulled out all the stops for the launch of the new series on Tuesday evening. Hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman joined the troupe of glamorous celebrities and professional dancers at the Elstree Studios to mark the return of the BBC entertainment show.
All 14 celebrities were dressed in their dancing costumes from their official photos, with former Coronation Street star Georgia May Foote leading the glamour in a green fringed mini dress and gold heels. The 24-year-old showed off her best moves as she shimmied on the red carpet alongside fellow contestants Jamelia and BBC weather presenter Carol Kirkwood.
© Photo: RexGeorgia May Foote showed off her dance moves
They were joined by fellow female contestants Anita Rani, Kirsty Gallacher and Helen George, who appeared in high spirits despite news of her marriage breakdown coming to light. The Call the Midwife star arrived at the party in a shimmering flapper style dress with gold accessories, while EastEnders actress Kellie Bright opted for a more vibrant blue full-skirted number.
Despite admitting his wife Emily MacDonagh had been teasing him about the outfits he would have to wear on the show, Peter Andre looked proud to be at the launch in a black embellished t-shirt and shimmering shirt. The Mysterious Girl singer's rivals Jay McGuinness and Anthony Ogogo also donned embellished shirts for the occasion, while radio presenter Jeremy Vine and celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott opted for suits ahead of their dance floor debut.
© Photo: RexNewly single Helen George appeared in good spirits
The professional dancers including Ola Jordan, Kristina Rihanoff and the newly married Joanne and Kevin Clifton all joined in the celebrations in colourful red and orange ensembles. Their colleagues Aljaz Skorjanec and Janette Manrara couldn't resist puckering up for a kiss on the red carpet, just over two weeks after they announced their engagement.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC on Saturday 5 September.
