Who Won Strictly Come Dancing 2024: Chris McCausland’s Inspiring Victory

Chris McCausland won Strictly Come Dancing 2024 alongside his professional partner Dianne Buswell. This victory marked a historic moment as he became the first blind contestant to lift the Glitterball Trophy. The comedian’s journey captivated millions, showcasing determination and skill in a competition known for its high stakes and glamorous performances.

In this comprehensive article, you’ll discover the full details of the 2024 season, from the dramatic final to behind-the-scenes insights. We’ll explore the contestants, key dances, and what made this year unforgettable. You’ll also learn about the show’s rich history, past winners, and any notable controversies that shaped the narrative. For those inspired to engage with Strictly, we’ll cover practical tips on watching, attending live shows, and even participating. By the end, you’ll have a deep understanding of why Strictly Come Dancing remains a beloved British institution, plus answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the sparkle, this guide combines fresh news with timeless advice to enhance your appreciation of the show.

The 2024 Grand Final Recap

The Strictly Come Dancing 2024 final took place on December 14, 2024, at the BBC Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire. Four couples competed for the title after weeks of intense rehearsals and live performances. Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell emerged victorious, beating out strong contenders like JB Gill with Lauren Oakley, Sarah Hadland with Vito Coppola, and Tasha Ghouri with Aljaž Škorjanec.

Viewers witnessed a mix of favorite dances, judges’ picks, and show dances that highlighted each pair’s strengths. The atmosphere was electric, with celebrities, former contestants, and fans cheering from the audience. This final not only crowned a winner but also celebrated inclusivity in dance.

What was expected was a close race, given the high scores throughout the season. However, Chris’s emotional connection with the public tipped the scales. His win surprised some bookmakers who had favored others earlier in the series.

Chris McCausland was interviewed right after the announcement on the BBC broadcast. He expressed gratitude and disbelief at his achievement.

‘This is for her (Dianne) and it’s for everyone out there that thought and got told they couldn’t do something. It just shows with opportunity and support and determination, anything can happen.’

This quote implies a broader message of overcoming obstacles, linking back to Chris’s personal story of losing his sight due to retinitis pigmentosa. It connects to previous seasons where underdogs triumphed, impacting future contestants by encouraging diversity.

The final scores reflected the judges’ admiration. Chris and Dianne scored 39 for their Waltz, 40 for their Show Dance, and 40 for their Couple’s Choice. JB and Lauren received 39, 40, and 40 respectively. Sarah and Vito got 39, 40, and 40. Tasha and Aljaž earned 40, 40, and 40. Public votes ultimately decided the winner, emphasizing audience support.

Meet the 2024 Contestants

Strictly Come Dancing 2024 featured a diverse lineup of 15 celebrities paired with professional dancers. Each brought unique backgrounds, from sports to music and acting. The pairings were revealed during the launch show on September 14, 2024.

Chris McCausland, a 47-year-old comedian, danced with Dianne Buswell. As the first blind participant, he relied on tactile cues and trust. JB Gill, singer from JLS, partnered with Lauren Oakley. His musicality helped in rhythm-based dances.

Sarah Hadland, known from Miranda, teamed up with Vito Coppola. Her acting skills shone in character-driven routines. Tasha Ghouri, a Love Island star and deaf advocate, paired with Aljaž Škorjanec. She used visual signals effectively.

Other notable pairs included Dr. Punam Krishan with Gorka Márquez, a doctor bringing energy to the floor. Jamie Borthwick from EastEnders danced with Michelle Tsiakkas. Montell Douglas, an Olympian, partnered with Johannes Radebe.

Nick Knowles, DIY SOS host, was with Luba Mushtuk. Paul Merson, former footballer, teamed with Karen Hauer. Pete Wicks from TOWIE danced with Jowita Przystał.

Sam Quek, hockey player, paired with Nikita Kuzmin. Shayne Ward, singer and actor, with Nancy Xu. Toyah Willcox, musician, with Neil Jones. Wynne Evans, opera singer, danced with Katya Jones.

Tom Dean, swimmer, was the first eliminated with Nadiya Bychkova. This mix ensured variety in performances each week.

The contestants trained for hours daily, balancing personal lives with the demands. Many shared stories of growth, like overcoming fears or building confidence. This season’s diversity highlighted Strictly’s evolution toward inclusivity.

Comparisons to past years show 2024 had more advocates for disabilities. Examples include Tasha’s cochlear implant and Chris’s blindness, adding layers to the competition.

Week-by-Week Highlights

Strictly 2024 kicked off on September 21 with Movie Week themes. Couples performed for the first time, setting scores. Chris McCausland impressed with a Cha Cha Cha, scoring 23 points.

Week 2 brought Icons Week, where dances honored music legends. Tasha Ghouri topped the leaderboard with a Viennese Waltz at 35 points. Eliminations began, with Tom Dean leaving.

By Week 3, Halloween themes added drama. Costumes and props enhanced routines. Paul Merson’s Salsa earned praise for energy.

Week 4 featured Musicals, with high-energy numbers. Shayne Ward’s Foxtrot stood out. Toyah Willcox was eliminated.

Dance styles varied in Week 5, including Paso Doble and Tango. Montell Douglas’s powerful routine scored 39.

Blackpool Week in Week 6 was a milestone at the Tower Ballroom. Larger audience amplified the excitement. Chris’s Couple’s Choice to Instant Karma wowed judges, scoring 37.

Semi-finals in Week 7 intensified with two dances per couple. Technical precision was key. Finalists emerged after tough decisions.

Each week built tension, with leaderboard changes. Public votes saved underdogs, like Chris multiple times.

Deeper insights reveal training challenges. Injuries occurred, but resilience prevailed. Comparisons to 2023 show higher average scores in 2024, indicating improved talent.

Historic Winners of Strictly

Strictly Come Dancing began in 2004 with Natasha Kaplinsky winning alongside Brendan Cole. Her newsreader poise helped in elegant dances.

Jill Halfpenny triumphed in 2005 with Darren Bennett. Her Jive remains iconic for energy.

Darren Gough, cricketer, won in 2005 series 3 with Lilia Kopylova. Unexpected victory showed public appeal.

Mark Ramprakash claimed 2006 with Karen Hardy. Cricket precision aided footwork.

Alesha Dixon won 2007 with Matthew Cutler. Her singing background enhanced musicality.

Tom Chambers in 2008 with Camilla Dallerup. Acting skills brought drama.

Chris Hollins, 2009, with Ola Jordan. The underdog story inspired many.

Kara Tointon, 2010, with Artem Chigvintsev. Chemistry sparked high scores.

Harry Judd, 2011, McFly drummer with Aliona Vilani.

Louis Smith, gymnast, 2012 with Flavia Cacace. Strength in lifts.

Abbey Clancy, 2013, with Aljaž Škorjanec.

Caroline Flack, 2014, with Pasha Kovalev. Emotional journey.

Jay McGuiness, 2015, with Aliona Vilani again.

Ore Oduba, 2016, with Joanne Clifton.

Joe McFadden, 2017, with Katya Jones.

Stacey Dooley, 2018, with Kevin Clifton.

Kelvin Fletcher, 2019, with Oti Mabuse.

Bill Bailey, 2020, with Oti Mabuse. Comedy twist.

Rose Ayling-Ellis, 2021, first deaf winner with Giovanni Pernice.

Hamza Yassin, 2022, with Jowita Przystał.

Ellie Leach, 2023, with Vito Coppola.

Chris McCausland, 2024, with Dianne Buswell. Pattern shows diversity increasing over years.

This list illustrates evolution from journalists to athletes and advocates. Each winner added unique flavor, boosting viewership.

Behind the Scenes: How Strictly Works

Strictly Come Dancing operates on a format of celebrity-professional pairings. Celebrities train weekly for live Saturday shows. Judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas, and Anton Du Beke score from 1 to 10.

Sunday results combine scores with public votes. Lowest combined face dance-off, judges decide elimination.

Production involves BBC Studios, with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman hosting. Rehearsals start months ahead, pros choreograph routines.

Dances include Latin like Samba, Ballroom like Waltz. Themes vary, like Movies or Musicals.

Deeper context: Show inspired Dancing with the Stars globally. UK version emphasizes British humor and glamour.

Examples: Strict safety protocols ensure fair play. Evolution includes more inclusive casting.

Controversies in 2024 Season

Strictly 2024 faced scrutiny over professional dancer conduct. Allegations surfaced against Giovanni Pernice from past partners like Amanda Abbington. Claims involved harsh training methods.

Graziano Di Prima left after reports of inappropriate behavior with Zara McDermott. BBC investigated, emphasizing welfare.

These issues prompted chaperone policies in rehearsals. Show addressed publicly, committing to a positive environment.

Background: Expected smooth season turned turbulent mid-year. Changes included enhanced support for contestants.

Impact: Discussions on reality TV pressures. Despite this, viewership remained strong, focusing on positive stories like Chris’s win.

Secondary quote from BBC: ‘We take welfare seriously and have robust processes.’

This added tension but highlighted improvements.

The Impact of Chris’s Win

Chris McCausland’s victory resonated beyond dance. As a blind comedian, he challenged perceptions. His routines relied on trust, adapting steps creatively.

Win implies broader accessibility in entertainment. Connects to Rose Ayling-Ellis’s deaf triumph in 2021.

Future plans: Chris hinted at more TV projects, inspiring disabled performers.

Dianne Buswell praised partnership, noting growth. This duo’s chemistry won hearts.

Examples: Social media buzzed with support, increasing awareness for retinitis pigmentosa.

Evolution of Strictly Come Dancing

Strictly launched May 15, 2004, reviving ballroom interest. Initial series had eight couples, growing to 15.

Hosts Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly started, Claudia joined later.

Judges panel evolved, Arlene Phillips to Shirley Ballas.

Specials like Christmas editions added variety.

Deeper insight: Global adaptations number over 60 countries. UK version won multiple BAFTAs.

Comparisons: Early seasons focused on fun, now emphasize stories and diversity.

Fan Favorites and Memorable Moments

2024 had standout dances like Tasha’s Couple’s Choice, scoring perfect 40. Emotional Waltzes touched audiences.

Chris’s humor in interviews lightened moods. Group dances showcased unity.

Past memorables: Bill Bailey’s Rapper’s Delight routine in 2020.

These moments drive viral shares, boosting popularity.

Practical Information and Planning

Strictly Come Dancing films at Elstree Studios, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire. Live shows run September to December annually.

Opening dates for 2025 series expected mid-September. Christmas Special tickets available via random draw in November.

Ticket prices: Free for audience, but random draw system. Apply via BBC Shows and Tours website.

How to get there: Nearest train is Elstree & Borehamwood station, 10-minute walk. Buses from London connect. Driving via M1 or A1, parking limited.

What to expect: Arrive early for security. Shows last 2-3 hours, with breaks. Facilities include restrooms, no food inside.

Tips for visitors: Dress smartly, no large bags. Best time is mid-season for variety. Who Won Strictly Avoid spoilers by staying off social media.

Accessibility: Wheelchair spaces available, request in application. Family-friendly, but loud environment. Sign language interpreters for some shows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won Strictly Come Dancing 2024?

Chris McCausland won Strictly Come Dancing 2024 with his partner Dianne Buswell. They lifted the Glitterball Trophy on December 14, 2024. This marked a historic win as the first blind champion.

What dances did the winners perform in the final?

In the final, Chris and Dianne performed a Waltz to You’ll Never Walk Alone, Who Won Strictly a Show Dance to You Get What You Give / Soul Limbo, and a Couple’s Choice to Instant Karma. They received high scores across the board.

Who were the runners-up in Strictly 2024?

The runners-up were JB Gill with Lauren Oakley, Sarah Hadland with Vito Coppola, and Tasha Ghouri with Aljaž Škorjanec. All delivered impressive performances but fell short in public votes.

How does voting work on Strictly Come Dancing?

Viewers vote online or by phone after Saturday’s performances. Who Won Strictly Votes combine with judges’ scores to determine the bottom two. In the dance-off, judges decide who stays.

What controversies happened in Strictly 2024?

The season saw allegations against professionals Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima for training conduct. The BBC implemented chaperones and welfare checks to address concerns.

Who are the judges on Strictly Come Dancing?

The judges are Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas, and Anton Du Beke. They provide scores and feedback each week.

How can I apply for Strictly audience tickets?

Apply through the BBC Shows and Tours website via random draw. Who Won Strictly It’s free, and you can select multiple dates. Successful applicants get confirmation emails.

What is the format of Strictly Come Dancing?

Celebrities pair with pros, learn dances weekly, perform live. Who Won Strictly Eliminations occur based on scores and votes until the final.

Past winners include Ellie Leach in 2023, Hamza Yassin in Who Won Strictly 2022, Rose Ayling-Ellis in 2021, and Bill Bailey in 2020. The list goes back to Natasha Kaplinsky in 2004.

Is Strictly Come Dancing family-friendly?

Yes, it’s suitable for families with glamorous dances and Who Won Strictly positive messages. Some themes may be more adult, but overall accessible.

To Get More Info: Yorkshire Herald