Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman led the stars at the 2019 Strictly Come Dancing launch – which took place on the final Bank Holiday Monday of the summer.
Stepping out in the baking London heat, the glam duo, who co-host the annual BBC dance contest, looked thrilled to be back as they strutted onto the stage, hand-in-hand, to greet the crowds at the inaugural event for the 17th season.
Claudia, 47, ditched her usual black attire, wowing in an elaborate sparkling trouser-suit.
First ladies: Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman led the stars at the 2019 Strictly Come Dancing launch – which took place on the final Bank Holiday Monday of the summer
The presenter looked fantastic in the eye-catching number, featuring a glittery red blazer and tailored slacks.
She offset the rouge with bright pink heels and a complimenting manicure, wearing her raven tresses in their trademark shaggy bobbed style.
Tess, 50, swept along next to her pal in a dark teal velvet gown in a figure-hugging design with a daring side split.
She added glittery silver heels and large hooped earrings to the look, wearing her blonde tresses in flowing waves around her shoulders, dusting a light turquoise shade to her eyes.
Here come the girls: Stepping out in the baking London heat, the glam duo, who co-host the annual BBC dance contest, looked thrilled to be back as they strutted onto the stage, hand-in-hand, to greet the crowds at the inaugural event for the 17th season
Off-brand: Claudia, 47, ditched her usual black attire, wowing in an elaborate sparkling trouser-suit. The presenter looked fantastic in the eye-catching number, featuring a glittery red blazer and tailored slacks
Star-spangled: She offset the rouge with bright pink heels and a complimenting manicure, wearing her raven tresses in their trademark shaggy bobbed style
Golden girl: Tess, 50, swept along next to her pal in a dark teal velvet gown in a figure-hugging design with a daring side split. She added glittery silver heels and large hooped earrings to the look, wearing her blonde tresses in flowing waves around her shoulders, dusting a light turquoise shade to her eyes
Earlier in the day, all eyes were on pro dancers Katya and Neil Jones who announced they were divorcing just last week.
But the twosome looked like the friendliest of exes as they rehearsed on stage ahead of the launch.
The former couple were in high spirits as they danced together. Sporting pink printed shorts and a black vest, Katya, 30, beamed as her soon-to-be-ex-husband wrapped an arm around her waist before lifting her off her feet during one particularly energetic routine.
Close: They announced their separation little more than a week ago, but Katya and Neil Jones looked like the friendliest of exes as they rehearsed for the Strictly Come Dancing launch on Monday
Spinning away: Katya showed off her skills while Neil looked on as they prepared for the red carpet launch
Despite announcing their split after six-years of marriage, the couple suggested they had spent their weekend together after making a joint appearance at Hampshire football club Alton FC.
The pair were filmed taking part in an impromptu penalty shoot out at the Wessex League Division One club on Sunday, and appeared to be close despite claims that a lack of passion contributed to the collapse of their marriage.
A source told The Sun: ‘Neil was very open about the fact that there was no passion between them — that they didn’t have sex.
Back together: The former couple were in high spirits as they took to the stage for rehearsals at London’s TV Centre ahead of the event, held to promote the forthcoming seventeenth series of the long-running show
Here we go: Neil was joined by a second dance partner as they performed an energetic routine with her husband on Monday
In safe hands: Katya did not flinch as Neil lifted her in the air and flung her about
Super moves: Proving his strength and endurance, the red-haired danced lifted Katya with ease
Tricks: The dancing partners put on a professional display as they rehearsed alongside their Strictly co-stars
‘He said they spent all their evenings together lounging on the sofa in comfy onesies, watching Disney films like The Lion King and The Little Mermaid.
‘They had been together for so long that obviously they were close, but as friends. The intimacy had drained from the marriage.’
The publication also reported that the British performer ‘insinuated’ that Katya was ‘jealous’ of him as he became more famous and that he believes he could be ‘bigger than Anton Du Beke.’
Good company: Despite recently ending their marriage, the Russian dancer and British performer smiled and laughed together
However there was no sign of animosity as they performed numerous well executed routines before swapping partners.
Other stars to attend the event on Monday included Karen Clifton, who worked up a sweat during rehearsals at TV Centre ahead of the show’s red carpet launch.
The professional dancer put her incredibly toned physique on full display a in tiny black sportswear set as she perfected her footwork for the press event.
Looking every inch the fitness enthusiast, the Latin dance specialist wowed in a plain bralet, tied in with a matching pair of shorts.
Centre stage: Other stars to attend the event on Monday included Karen Clifton, who worked up a sweat during rehearsals at TV Centre
Stunning: Looking every inch the fitness enthusiast, the Latin dance specialist wowed in a plain bralet, tied in with a matching pair of shorts as she danced with Aljaž Škorjanec
That’s better: The professional dancer dried herself off with a towel after working up a sweat during rehearsals
Practice makes perfect: Karen Clifton worked up a sweat with her ex-husband Kevin during rehearsals in London on Monday, ahead of Strictly Come Dancing’s 2019 red carpet launch
Impressive: Karen changed into a more elaborate outfit of a dazzling gold dress encrusted with gemstones and featuring strips of sheer material that cascaded down her legs
Bombshell: Karen posed up a storm in her sexy outfit as she smiled from ear to ear
Zestful: The stars showcased their talent as they rehearsed with all their energy in the heat
I’ve got you: Anton Du Beke performed an equally energetic routing
The choreographer injected a hint of glamour into her dressed-down appearance with brown sandal heels, and tied a denim shirt around her waist.
Sporting minimal make-up, Karen showcased her naturally radiant complexion while her edgy haircut was worn in a tousled style.
Let’s dance: meanwhile Anton was accompanied by a female dancer as they prepared for another routine
Impressive: The dancer showed off his upper body strength as he lifted his fellow ballroom pro off her feet
Professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, 28, appeared to work up a sweat in the heatwave as he worked on his fancy footwork ahead of the big show.
The Italian native wiped the perspiration off his forehead with his grey vest top and in the process he flaunted his abs.
It was impossible to miss Dianne Buswell as she took to the stage with Kevin Clifton due to her bright red locks that she swayed about as she twisted and turned in a pair of leggings and a white T-shirt printed with a provocative pair of lips that she tied up to expose her midriff.
Hot and bothered: Giovanni Pernice was feeling the heat as he rehearsed on Monday afternoon
Exhausted: The professional dancer wiped away sweat as temperatures soared outside TV Centre
Fancy footwork: Giovanni was later joined by fellow Strictly pro Neil
Wow: It was impossible to miss Dianne Buswell due to her bright red locks that she swayed about as she twisted and turned in a pair of leggings and a white T-shirt printed with a provocative pair of lips that she tied up to expose her midriff
Professional: Kevin kept it casual in a navy and white striped long sleeve top and black chino trousers as he effortlessly lifted petite Dianne
Dancing queen: Dianne looked at ease as she danced with Kevin
Kevin kept it casual in a navy and white striped long sleeve top and black chino trousers as he effortlessly lifted petite Dianne.
Janette Manrara flaunted her gym-honed physique in a skintight leggings and a sheer black vest covered in polka dots.
She danced alongside her spouse Aljaž Škorjanec who spun her around in a black vest and jeans.
Impressive: Dianne showcased her flexibility as she did a split in the air
Sporty: Janette Manrara flaunted her gym-honed physique in a skintight leggings and a sheer black vest covered in polka dots
Gifted: Oti Mabuse looked every inch the professional as she rehearsed
Oti Mabuse looked every inch the professional as she rehearsed wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with ‘limited edition’ and form-fitting leggings.
Elsewhere show hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman couldn’t contain their excitement as they greeted crowds outside the London venue.
Slipping into a white polka dot summer dress, Tess, 50, was positively glowing as she joined Claudia for rehearsals ahead of star-studded red carpet extravaganza.
Letting her blonde locks cascade down her shoulders, Tess teamed her stylish dress with a pair of beige stiletto heels and large white-rimmed sunglasses as she took to the stage.
Husband and wife: She danced alongside her spouse Aljaž Škorjanec who spun her around in a black vest and jeans
Elegant: Elsewhere show hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman couldn’t contain their excitement as they greeted crowds outside the London venue
Pretty: Slipping into a white polka dot summer dress, Tess, 50, was positively glowing as she joined Claudia for rehearsals ahead of star-studded red carpet extravaganza
Laid-back: Meanwhile, Claudia kept her look simple in an oversized black jumper underneath a black dress
Meanwhile, Claudia kept her look simple in an oversized black jumper underneath a black dress.
The duo looked in high-spirits as they larked about together behind their sunglasses and proved their close friendship as they held hands and giggled.
Also spotted were the judging panel – Craig Revel Horwood, 54, Bruno Tonioli, 63, Shirley Ballas, 58, and the newest addition to judges line-up Motsi Mabuse, 38 – the foursome were dressed to the nines in their finery with Craig and Bruno putting on dapper displays in tuxedos and Motsi and Shirley in stunning evening gowns.
Judges: Also spotted were the judging panel – Craig Revel Horwood, 54, Bruno Tonioli, 63, Shirley Ballas, 58, and the newest addition to judges line-up Motsi Mabuse, 38 – the foursome were dressed to the nines in their finery with Craig and Bruno putting on dapper displays in tuxedos and Motsi and Shirley in stunning evening gowns
Living it up! Craig, Motsi and Shirley looked in their element as they danced about on stage
Newcomer: Motsi Mabuse certainly made an impression as she arrived at the rehearsals for the show’s red carpet event in a gigantic pink tulle skirt on Monday
Glam: Motsi wowed in the showstopping skirt, which fanned out in sensational style and made sure her arrival on the judging panel was known
Stylish: Motsi added a touch of bling with statement earrings and rings layered up on her fingers
Stunning: Age-defying Shirley slipped into a cobalt blue semi-sheer pleated gown with a white detailing that cupped under her bust and nipped in at her svelte waist
Suave: Bruno’s jazzy suit was made out of a black velvet animal printed brocade material
Oh la la! Shirley lifted up her skirt to expose her tanned pins and later on, Bruno wrapped his arm around Shirley
Age-defying Shirley slipped into a cobalt blue semi-sheer pleated gown with a white detailing that cupped under her bust and nipped in at her svelte waist.
The showstopping garment featured a long white train that billowed when the wind got underneath the satin material.
Motsi brought the drama in a black off-the-shoulder top teamed with a red layered tulle skirt which was pulled in at her midriff with a black leather belt decorated with a gold buckle.
Larking about: Later on, some of the celebrities rocked up and used the time to rehearse
Jokers: Jamie and David James danced about in their relaxation clothes and struggled to contain their excitement as they bent their knees and clicked their fingers in unison
Oops! David looked frustrated as if he has messed up his fancy footwork
Sweet: James Cracknell, 47, and Catherine Tyldesley, 35, practiced a cute routine where the sportsman kissed the actres’ hand
Trendy: Catherine looked a vision in a yellow summer dress that wrapped around her lithe figure and sported trainers
Elegant: The beauty tied her caramel locks up in a ponytail and flaunted a face of radiant make-up
Edgy: James donned leather trousers and a black T-shirt
One step at a time: Emma Barton, 42, walked onto the stage with Dev Griffin, 34, to rehearse before they slipped into their performance ensembles
Movers and shakers: Radio DJ Dev cut a casual figure in a black T-shirt and skinny jeans and kept his curls out of his face by tying his locks up in a ponytail
Later on, some of the celebrities rocked up and used the time to rehearse.
Made in Chelsea’s Jamie Laing and footballer David James danced about in their relaxation clothes and struggled to contain their excitement as they bent their knees and clicked their fingers in unison.
James Cracknell, 47, and Catherine Tyldesley, 35, practiced a cute routine where the sportsman kissed the actres’ hand.
Catherine looked a vision in a yellow summer dress that wrapped around her lithe figure and sported trainers.
The beauty tied her caramel locks up in a ponytail and flaunted a face of radiant make-up.
Here he comes: Contestant Jamie Laing was seen making his way into TV Centre ahead of Monday evening’s event
Can’t wait: The Made In Chelsea star looked excited as he joined fellow guests at the event, where he was joined by former England goalkeeper David
Pals: James embraced a female friend as they chatted in the sunshine outside the venue
Let’s talk: Idling outside the studio, Jamie chatted with a group of female friends
Beauty: The singer, 51, took to the stage in a stunning midnight blue handkerchief hem dress, which sheathed over her slender figure
Dancing shoes: The Strictly girls helped create an elegant formation, while the boys performed a series of tricks and lifts behind the pop superstar
Emma Barton, 42, walked onto the stage with Dev Griffin, 34, to rehearse before they slipped into their performance ensembles.
The pretty actress wore a baggy black dress and beamed from ear to ear as she walked hand-in-hand with her co-star.
Radio DJ Dev cut a casual figure in a black T-shirt and skinny jeans and kept his curls out of his face by tying his locks up in a ponytail.
Appearing at the event to perform was Kylie Minogue, 51, took to the stage in a stunning midnight blue handkerchief hem dress, which sheathed over her slender figure.
Kylie matched the blue neon graphics in the background in the gorgeous dress, which featured a plunging neckline and white piping.
The I Should Be So Lucky hitmaker added a boost to her petite frame with gold studded heels and wore her blonde hair in elegant waves.
Catching the eye: The star looked effortlessly stylish as she tottered around the BBC studios
Hot under the collar: The songstress fanned herself as she struggled to keep cool in the sweltering heat
Stage presence: Kylie looked glamorous on stage which had glittering gold sequin props
Working it: The Strictly men threw themselves around Kylie
Kylie appeared excited for the launch as she took to the stage to perform some of her latest hits.
The star pranced around with the Strictly professionals, ensuring she rehearsed the moves ahead of the big launch night.
The Strictly girls helped create an elegant formation, while the boys performed a series of tricks and lifts behind the pop superstar.
Kylie has been busy touring the UK, showcasing tracks from her latest album Golden, which was released in April 2018.
This year’s line-up boasts a range of celebrities including Corrie’s Catherine Tyldesley, Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing and YouTube sensation Saffron Barker.
And it’s all go at Strictly HQ as they also released their first teaser ahead of the first show next month.
The reality show offered fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the upcoming promo, which stars the pros in an array of theatrical costumes.
Fan: Tess hugged the pint-sized pop star after she took to the stage and Kylie looked happy as she shared the lovely moment with Tess
Fan: Tess hugged the pint-sized pop star after she took to the stage and Kylie looked happy as she shared the lovely moment with Tess
The new clip teases Anton Du Beke, Katya Jones, Kevin Clifton, and AJ Pritchard preparing for the first look.
Meanwhile, both Gorka Marquez and Graziano Di Prima weren’t front and centre in the promo after they confirmed that he won’t be partnered with a celebrity for this year’s series.
In a statement he shared on Instagram, Gorka said: ‘For everybody that’s been asking, I can let you know that this series, I sadly won’t be partnered with a celebrity for the main series of Strictly.
‘However, I will still be heavily involved in all of the group numbers and all things Strictly! I’m excited to see this year’s celebs and my fellow professionals dance for the Glitter Ball and I hope to be back fighting for it next year.
‘As always, it’s gonna be a GREAT series.’
Undercover: The production team wanted to keep their outfits a surprise, so the professionals wore oversized T-shirts atop of their outfits
Cha-cha-cha: At one point, Kevin and Katya were paired up to dance together
Sizzling: Katya demonstrated her sexy nature as she lifted her leg and twirled
Footloose: The professionals took a little breather in between routines
Supportive: Debbie McGee, 60, who appeared in the 2017 series of Strictly came along to the event to show support to the new celebrities