Strictly Come Dancing 'films huge Madonna tribute' for 2026 launch show
The series will open with a bangStrictly Come Dancing has filmed a huge Madonna tribute for its 2026 series opener, according to reports.
The group number is said to be a mega-mix of the iconic pop star’s biggest hits.
Insiders have said it was recorded only days ago. It is already being billed as the strongest group performance fans have seen in years.
The timing is no accident, either.
Strictly is heading into a genuine new era with hosting trio Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe, all stepping up for the first time.
With that much attention on the series, the BBC is understood to be pouring extra effort into its big set-piece routines.
Strictly pros record ‘Madonna tribute’
A source told The Sun: “Strictly has paid homage to Madonna and it truly is spectacular.”
The routine was apparently filmed a few days ago, pulling together several of the American singer’s defining hits.
Its biggest moments reportedly go to the newest faces on the floor.
“New professional dancers Aleksandra Isaeva and Lethabo Monametsi are front and centre, and alongside the other female pros they are all transformed into Madonna through the years,” the source added.
Aleksandra and Lethabo are among the five new professional dancers joining Strictly for 2026, and this looks like a statement introduction for both.
Familiar pros are said to get standout moments too. Lauren Oakley, Jowita Przystal, Dianne Buswell and Alexis Warr all apparently land memorable moments in the number.
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 huge opener is a deliberate move by bosses, it’s claimed.
“The BBC knows there are a lot of eyes on this new series and it’s really upped the ante with the group dances,” the source also told the publication.
The Madonna routine has been likened to the show’s Britney Spears tribute.
Last October, the professional dancers paid homage to fellow pop princess Britney. They performed a huge routine packed full of her best hits.
When does Strictly Come Dancing start?
Strictly Come Dancing is returning to BBC One later this month. The exact date has not been confirmed, but the pre-recorded launch show is expected to air on Saturday September 19, 2026.
Avid fans have already been able to apply for tickets for the first live show, which is scheduled for Saturday September 26.
Need a reminder of the line-up? You can check out all the celebrities taking part in Strictly 2026 here.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One later this month.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI technology to synthesise source reporting and structured data. It has been reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by our human editorial team before publication.
