Strictly 2023 logo with Kevin smiling
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BBC announces Strictly legend Kevin Clifton has signed up to return to the show – next week!

A very welcome comeback

Strictly Come Dancing legend Kevin Clifton has signed up to return in 2023 – four years since his exit.

The pro dancer, 41, was a regular on the glitzy BBC One show for seven years. During his stint on the series, he was partnered up with the likes of Susanna Reid and future baby mama Stacey Dooley. However, in 2019, he left fans gutted when he revealed he was quitting the show.

But now, it’s been confirmed by the BBC that Kevin is heading back to Strictly for its sister show It Takes Two.

Kevin Clifton looking awkward on Loose Women
The former Strictly star will be back on its sister show (Credit: ITV)

Strictly 2023: Show legend to return

The news of Kevin’s return was announced on It Takes Two during Tuesday’s episode (October 24). Host Fleur East revealed he will appear on next Tuesday’s Halloween edition of It Takes Two.

Kevin will have a role in the Choreography Corner segment, which looks at and analyses the week’s dancers. Kevin will be replacing his sister Joanne Clifton who will have a week off. She was also a pro on the show from 2014 to 2016.

Earlier in this Strictly series, Fleur confirmed Kevin would be making an appearance. She told Joanne: “Choreography corner is a family affair this year isn’t it Joanne?” His sister quipped back: “Yes it’s someone called Kevin, dunno if you know him, he came second in 2016 when I won.”

However, Kevin may look a little different as Fleur announced last night that he’ll be dressed as one of three iconic Halloween characters!

Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton on This Morning
Kevin met Stacey Dooley on the show (Credit: ITV)

Kevin on Strictly

Joanne was crowned champion in 2016, dancing with BBC presenter Ore Oduba, leaving her brother in second place. However, he and now-girlfriend Stacey Dooley later won the competition in 2018.

They announced that they had begun dating in 2019. This January, Kevin and Stacey welcomed their daughter Minnie into the world.

Kevin left Strictly in early 2020, leaving the show’s fans distraught. Since his departure, he has starred in a number of stage musicals, including Singing in the Rain and Strictly Ballroom. Fans have long hoped to see him return to the show, with many demanding that he return as judge.

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Joey Crutchley
Freelance Writer