The Strictly Come Dancing cast may be celebrating a triumphant end to the 2024 season – but it seems TV fans at home have not tuned in to watch the show so much this year

Strictly Come Dancing has suffered a setback following the thrilling climax of the 2024 season.

Throughout the recent string of episodes – which compiled the 22nd season of the long-running BBC dance show – ratings have struggled compared to earlier years. And it seems the grand finale was no different – limping in the viewership records behind past iterations of the show.

Strictly 2024 got off to a weak start back in September with the launch episode pulling in just 7.1million viewers – down from the 7.8 million viewers that watched the 2023 launch. And while numbers have improved for the finale – which was won by comedian Chris McCausland and his dance partner Dianne Buswell – they were still down.

According to reports, the last episode of the season attracted a peak viewership of 9.3 million, but with an average viewership of 8.6 million. Last year, the 2024 season – won by Coronation Street star Ellie Leach and dancer Vito Coppola – pulled in a peak of 9.7 million and average of 8.8 million.

The 2024 season of Strictly kicked off amid an abuse claims storm – and concluded with lower viewing figures than 2023 ( 
Image:
BBC/Guy Levy)

However, the BBC has reported that circulated viewing figures are not accurate. A spokesperson said: “Last night the Strictly Come Dancing final was watched by 9.6million people at its peak, 8.6million people watched on average, with a share of 58.5% of the audience. It is also worth noting that overnights no longer provide an accurate picture of all those who watch in an on demand world, and our 28 day consolidated figures will provide a more accurate representation of how many people tuned in to the Strictly final. It was the highest overnight share on record for a Strictly final.

Following the disappointing start of the 2024 season – which launched amid scandal and accusations of behind-the-scenes abuse – a source told The Sun: “Strictly is still the most watched programme on a Saturday night — getting double the viewers of its nearest ratings rival. And, although the number watching on catch-up is increasing, the BBC always prided itself on the fact that the dance show offered a shared experience. But it seems fewer and fewer people are now choosing to share it on a Saturday night.”

Following the conclusion of the 2024 season, head judge Shirley Ballas took to social media to defend the show after a bad year that saw it embroiled in scandal. She wrote on Instagram: “I am forever grateful to be a part of a show that brings joy to millions of living rooms across the country. To all who work on and off the camera, thank you for putting on the best show on television. Thank you to you all for tuning in. I love you all. Have a beautiful Christmas. Hugs.”

Fellow judge Motsi Mabuse also backed the show, declaring it is an institution in the UK TV schedules. She gushed on Instagram: “This season has reminded us why Strictly is so special. In just 12 weeks, it has changed lives, brought people together, and inspired millions to chase their dreams. Chris and Dianne’s partnership was the perfect example of the magic that happens when passion, talent, and commitment come together.

“Here’s to 20 years of Strictly changing lives and creating moments we will never forget. To Chris, Dianne, and all the finalists—you’ve inspired us to dance like nobody’s watching. What a celebration of life, love, and the transformative power of dance. Thank you, Strictly, for making the world sparkle just a little bit brighter.”