The interactive series features professional dancers in weekly dance battles on CBBC
Category: Arts & Culture
Strictly Come Dancing has announced a brand new spin-off show titled Strictly Pro Dance Off, set to premiere on CBBC on Saturday, September 19, 2026. This new series will place the spotlight on the professional dancers as they engage in interactive dance battles, aiming to attract a younger audience and expand the franchise’s appeal.
The Strictly Pro Dance Off will feature three professional dancers in each episode, with one leading a tutorial on a dance routine before the other two compete in a dance battle. The lead dancer will hold the all-important score paddles to judge the performances. The first episode will showcase Dianne Buswell as the lead pro, with Kai Widdrington and Lauren Oakley joining her for a Jive.
The introduction of Strictly Pro Dance Off marks the first new spin-off from the iconic dance competition in 22 years, following the success of It Takes Two. According to Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Commissioning for BBC Children’s and Education 7+, the new show is crafted to resonate with children, combining the excitement of dance with educational elements. "Strictly Pro Dance Off brings everything children love about Strictly into a short, energetic new format made especially for them," Muller said.
Each episode will focus on competitive dance and provide behind-the-scenes insights, allowing young viewers to learn about different dance styles and techniques that bring the ballroom to life. The interactive component encourages viewers to join in and participate, making it a truly engaging experience.
Strictly Come Dancing has been a staple of British television since its inception, captivating audiences with its blend of celebrity performances and professional choreography. The show has consistently evolved to maintain its relevance, and the introduction of Strictly Pro Dance Off is part of a broader strategy to attract a younger demographic. The BBC aims to future-proof the franchise by incorporating social media-friendly formats and engaging content.
Notably, the format of Strictly Pro Dance Off draws some comparisons to the US version of Dancing With The Stars, particularly the spin-off The Next Pro, which also emphasizes professional dancers competing against each other. Insiders have noted that this focus on professionals is a response to the public's affection for stars like Dianne Buswell, who has become a fan favorite over the years.
The upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing features a fresh lineup of celebrities, including EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, singer Delta Goodrem, and Manchester City legend Shaun Wright-Phillips. The main show will kick off with a pre-recorded launch at 7:25 PM on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on September 19, followed by the first live show the following week on September 26.
The launch of Strictly Pro Dance Off is expected to generate excitement among fans, particularly as it aligns with the main show's themes each week. The series aims to provide a fun and interactive way for young audiences to engage with the world of dance, potentially inspiring the next generation of dancers.
The show will air live during CBBC's Saturday Mash-Up! every week, starting on September 19, and episodes will be available afterward on BBC iPlayer. This strategy allows the BBC to reach a broader audience and encourage viewership across multiple platforms.
As the season progresses, viewers can anticipate a rich mix of performances and behind-the-scenes content, highlighting the skills and personalities of both new and returning professional dancers. With the new hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe taking the reins of the main show, fans are eager to see how these changes will influence the dynamics of the competition.
As the BBC prepares for the launch of Strictly Pro Dance Off and the new season of Strictly Come Dancing, anticipation is high for what will likely be an exciting and vibrant addition to the beloved franchise.