Fleur East to make Strictly Come Dancing return for special tribute to late star

29 September 2023 , 19:36

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Fleur East will return to Strictly this weekend (Image: PA)

Fleur East, the former contestant and co-host of the Strictly spin-off show 'It Takes Two', has confirmed her return to Strictly Come Dancing this weekend.

She will be performing a special routine on Sunday, October 1st, in honour of the late music legend Tina Turner. Joining her in the ballroom for this tribute will be pop stars Beverley Knight and Laura Mvula. During Friday's episode of 'It Takes Two' on September 29th, Fleur announced: "I can exclusively reveal Laura Mvula, Beverly Knight had the honour of being part of the fantastic Tina Turner tribute."

Fleur, a former X Factor contestant and I'm A Celebrity star, replaced Rylan Clark as host of 'It Takes Two' after he stepped down from his role in April. In a heartfelt message at the time, Rylan told his fans: "After four fantastic years it's time for me to hang up my glittery jacket and say goodbye to It Takes Two."

Fleur East confirmed her return to Strictly (No credit)

He added, "I've had the best time hosting the show alongside Janette and Zoe and I can't thank the amazing team enough for always putting on a great show. I've been welcomed into the Strictly family and will firmly hold that title dear to me."

Rylan, explaining his decision to step down from the show, stated: "The time has come for me to pass on the baton to someone else and explore what else life has for me. Thank you Strictly, you will always have my heart... and dancing feet."

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Fleur, who is taking over the role, shared: "As soon as it was announced that I was taking on the role Rylan sent me a message and said he was so excited and that I was going to have so much fun. I've worked with Rylan in the past and he's an incredible presenter so I have got some big boots to fill but he's really been so supportive."

Strictly will pay tribute to Tina Turner (AP)

Janette added her thoughts: "Rylan did reach out and say good luck to myself for the series and Fleur. It was so special to do the first two years of me hosting It Takes Two with him because he's such an incredible professional.

"He's such a good presenter. He knows exactly what he's doing. He's got the biggest, kindest heart. And I couldn't have asked for anyone to be a better partner to me, and to show me the ropes when I joined the show, so I'll miss him but I'm super excited to be with my girl Fleur."

Strictly: It Takes Two airs weeknights on BBC Two at 6.30pm

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Harry Rutter