BBC Strictly Come Dancing sparks complaints minutes in as fans say 'oh dear'

Strictly Come Dancing fans seemed to share a unified opinion minutes into the highly anticipated Blackpool episode of

The popular dance show returned on Saturday, with the eight remaining celebrities vying for their spot in the competition, all set against the stunning backdrop of Blackpool.

Presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly led the proceedings, getting the show off to a lively start.

However, viewers couldn't help but be distracted by Claudia's eye-catching golden gown. The dazzling dress featured large, flowing sleeves and tassels that caught the eye.

Taking to social media platform X in large numbers, fans shared their thoughts on Claudia's glitzy outfit. One fan of the BBC show quipped: "Claudia in a magic carpet."

Another viewer joked: "Claudia is wearing a magic carpet or a curtain from a Blackpool casino.", reports the Mirror. A third fan chimed in, saying: "Oh dear what is Claudia wearing."

Meanwhile, another fan poked fun at the outfit, saying: "Woohoo! That Pet Shop Boys opening looked like fun on #Strictly but why, oh why, oh why is Claudia wearing my mother in law's old curtains? ? ? ".

Despite the negative comments, some fans adored Claudia's golden ensemble. One enthusiastic viewer gushed: "Obsessed with what Claudia's wearing. OBSESSED. Another fan agreed, saying: "Love Claudia's gold kaftan, very stylish.

"Blackpool holds a distinguished position on the Strictly Come Dancing calendar, with every star eager to earn their spot for the celebrated Blackpool week. This year's excitement was amplified, as the show celebrated its 20th anniversary, which only added to the Saturday night fever in Blackpool, accentuated by an electric opening from the 80s sensation Pet Shop Boys."

Ahead of her first Blackpool experience, Tasha Ghouri, known for her appearances on both Strictly and Love Island, shared: "Blackpool is legendary because it's such a unique venue, and it's known as one of the most special places in the competition world. In the UK especially, the Blackpool Tower Ballroom is beautiful and grand, and having that week away from the Elstree studio brings a fresh atmosphere, new energy, and a bigger audience."

She continued with evident excitement, "Everyone gets really pumped up for Blackpool it just feels so much more special. You hear about the historic ballroom competitions held there, and it's such a respected space in dance, which is why everyone loves it so much."

Adding his perspective, Chris McCausland, who made history as Strictly's first ever blind contestant, shared his sentiments alongside professional dancer Dianne Buswell. The comedian stated: "It's something that means a lot to the professional dancers."

He elaborated on the significance of the event, saying, "Strictly is a two way relationship and they don't get to dance there every year with a partner because they leave at different points of the competition each year.

To be able to get to Blackpool with Dianne and give her that opportunity to dance there again means more to me than me being able to go there myself." Just last week, Strictly bid farewell to participants Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu.

Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One