Overview

• BBC iPlayer released the first-look trailer, confirming the pre-recorded Launch Show airs 20 September with the live competition beginning 27 September and the first results on 5 October.
• The Launch Show will feature the pairings reveal, a full-cast group dance, a routine from reigning champions Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell, and an exclusive performance by Jessie J.
• Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman return as hosts with judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke, while new pros Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon join the lineup that includes Ellie Goldstein.
• Production has stepped up at Elstree, with Shirley Ballas posting her “first day back” update from the studio and Tess Daly sharing her first launch script.
• Bookmaker odds reported by William Hill tip Ross King as most likely for the first exit and place Lewis Cope among the early favourites, as contestants including Vicky Pattison discuss preparations and wellbeing.