Strictly Come Dancing’s ratings soar by 1.1million thanks to soap stars after viewers switched off in droves

STRICTLY Come Dancing was back with a bang on Saturday night — with 1.1million more fans tuning in to watch the launch show.

Viewers were switching off last year, with the first episode pulling in a paltry 5.6million at its peak — down 1.7million on 2021.

But insiders say this year’s resurgence is down to soap star signings — including EastEnder Bobby Brazier, ex-Corrie actress Ellie Leach and former Emmerdale star Adam Thomas.

BBC bosses will be delighted by the figures, as judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke watched this years’ stars paired up with their pros.

A source said: “Millions of people tune in to soaps each week, so booking some of their current and former stars was a coup — and it is paying off.

“The boost in ratings is a huge bonus for the BBC which has been hoping for a lift.

“Hopefully, a whole new audience is coming to Strictly — and will stay.”

Actor Bobby, 20, the son of late reality TV star Jade Goody, has been paired with Dianne Buswell, but was named bookies’ favourite when

The Sun revealed he was competing.

But he faces stiff competition from Ellie, 22, who was told she will be dancing the jive on Saturday with her professional partner Vito Coppola.

Her odds were slashed from 16/1 to 8/1, putting Ellie up with Bobby as a front-runner.

Hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman opened Saturday’s show, which also featured an elaborate group dance featuring the judges.

From next Saturday, stars including actress Amanda Abbington, comedian Les Dennis and news presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy, will be competing for viewers’ votes.

The first dance-off will be the following week.