BBC Strictly Come Dancing fans issue three-word response as music icons open show

BBC audiences were once again transported to the sparkling world of Strictly Come Dancing on Saturday night, but with a notable twist as the show paid homage to the illustrious Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

The previous week had supporters on the edge of their seats as Wynne Evans and Shayne Ward faced off in an anxiety-inducing dance-off, battling to remain contenders in the series.

Ultimately, it was Shayne who bid farewell after head judge Shirley Ballas made the final call amidst a split decision among the judges.

Turmoil aside, Tasha Ghouri and JB Gill dazzled the judges with their performances, garnering impressive near-perfect scores of 37 each, which catapulted them to the top of the leaderboard, sharing first place.

Yet, the latest round at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom saw all eyes on the opening act prior to the celebrities hitting the floor for their weekly dances, reports the Mirror.

Dressed in shimmering silver, the professional dancers set the energy high with a spellbinding musical act instead of diving directly into the celebrity routines.

In a delightful surprise characteristic of the Blackpool spectacle, The Pet Shop Boys graced the stage, performing a compilation of their classic hits, dressed in ensembles that mirrored the dancers.

The number swiftly became a sensation on Twitter, with fans rushing to express their amazement. One viewer exclaimed: "Pet Shop Bots were incredible."

An enthusiastic fan complimented the performance: "The legendary #Petshopboys Pet Shop Boys icons open @bbcstrictly at Blackpool. Fantastic."

Another viewer expressed their admiration for the evening's entertainment, commenting: "Loved the start of tonight's #Strictly. The Pet Shop Boys have a great back catalogue."

"Wow! Best opening yet and finally great musical guests. Love The Pet Shop Boys! Wish they could have the show at Blackpool every week too. My fav week," one fan added.

Someone else wrote: "It doesn't get much better than The Pet Shop Boys #PetShopBoys opening the very special week of Blackpool Tower Ballroom on Strictly."

While one person commented: "PET SHOP BOYS on Strictly best opening of the show ever.! ! That enjoyable short performance brought back so many and amazing memories."

Following an exhilarating performance, the Strictly competitors stepped onto the dance floor with the professional dancers amidst a shower of confetti.

The studio audience was quick to respond with an enthusiastic round of applause once The Pet Shop Boys concluded their medley.

Claudia Winkleman began the broadcast by showing gratitude towards The Pet Shop Boys and the choreographic team for an outstanding start to the show.

Strictly audiences will be treated to another appearance from The Pet Shop Boys as they are set to perform their latest track, All The Young Dudes, during Sunday's results episode.

Starting off Blackpool Week's performances were Chris McCausland and his dance partner Dianne Buswell, who performed an American Smooth to Paul Anka's "Jump."

Strictly Come Dancing continues Sunday on BBC One from 7:20pm