Bruce Forsyth remembered in touching Strictly Come Dancing tribute as fans left sobbing

Strictly: Stars feature in pre-recorded opening to launch show

Strictly Come Dancing fans were moved to tears after spotting a heartfelt tribute to the late Sir Bruce Forsyth during the opening of the 2024 launch show.

Before the 15 anxious celebrities discovered their professional dance partners, an energetic group dance took place featuring Dave Arch, Tess Daly, Claudia Winkleman and all the judges alongside this year's professional dancers.

They journeyed to the BBC Television Centre on a bus that held a poignant nod to the show's former host, the late Sir Bruce. This year marks two decades since Strictly first aired on BBC One, originally hosted by Tess and the late Sir Bruce in 2004.

Bruce sadly passed away in 2017, but the BBC ensured his memory was honoured as the 20th anniversary celebrations began. As Aljaz Skorjanec drove the bus into the studio, viewers at home noticed a touching tribute to Bruce on the bus' number plate, which brought many to tears.

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Bruce Forsyth hosed Strictly Come Dancing with Tess Daly before his sad death (Image: BBC)

One emotional fan posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: "#Strictly #Scd What a lovely nod to Sir Bruce Forsyth #Bus #Strictlycomedancing." Another added: "Loving the reg on the #Strictly bus, BRUCIE, never forgotten.", reports the Mirror.

A third shared: "The tribute to Brucie on Strictly, nope not crying at all #Strictly,". A fourth fan exclaimed on social media: "The Brucie licence plate on the bus has sent me already. I bloody love #Strictly."

"The Brucie numberplate. Nice touch #Strictly," commented a fifth, while another person shared on Twitter: "Omgg the bus is called Brucie #Strictly."

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Fans spotted the Brucie number plate on the party bus (Image: BBC) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

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Elsewhere in the launch show extravaganza, Amy Dowden made her grand return to the BBC's glittering ballroom after taking time out for her cancer treatment, captivating audiences in an all-pink ensemble a nod to the emblematic hue of breast cancer awareness. She took her place proudly amongst the professionals, putting on a dazzling performance.

"Not me getting emotional at Amy's return," a viewer admitted, touched by the moment. "So lovely to see Amy Dowden back in the spotlight where she belongs," another chimed in with warmth.

Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One

Bruce Forsyth remembered in touching Strictly Come Dancing tribute as fans left sobbing

Bruce Forsyth remembered in touching Strictly Come Dancing tribute as fans left sobbing

Bruce Forsyth remembered in touching Strictly Come Dancing tribute as fans left sobbing

Bruce Forsyth remembered in touching Strictly Come Dancing tribute as fans left sobbing

Bruce Forsyth remembered in touching Strictly Come Dancing tribute as fans left sobbing