BBC Strictly Come Dancing wins Bafta for memorable moment as Dianne Buswell pays tribute to Chris McCausland

The BBC's hit dancing competition Strictly Come Dancing has triumphed at the Baftas, securing the award for the most memorable moment for its sensational "blackout" dance. Pro dancer Dianne Buswell proudly accepted the accolade, an honour decided by public vote that celebrated an extraordinary performance featuring her celebrity partner, the blind comedian Chris McCausland.

Their acclaimed "blackout" dance, which captured the hearts of viewers across social media platforms, involved a poignant part where McCausland covered Buswell's eyes as darkness enveloped the stage—a powerful tribute to his personal perspective of the world.

Upon the room relighting, the audience witnessed McCausland, at 47, impressively spinning with Buswell hoisted atop his shoulders, against a spectacular backdrop of fireworks.

Buswell expressed the impact of the routine, stating: "In one minute and 30 seconds of a dance, I feel like this told such a story. A story of hope, determination, resilience and vulnerability."

She continued, conveying her joy over the recognition: "This moment meant so much to the both of us, so I'm just so thrilled that we have this."

Although McCausland was absent from the event, Buswell relayed his humorous response to the honour, saying: "Chris did have something he wanted me to say, and that is 'after 22 years in comedy, he wins a Bafta for dancing'."

McCausland became a beloved figure on Strictly during its 20th anniversary series, coming out on top with Buswell as his partner. His participation was groundbreaking as he was the first-ever blind contestant in the show’s history, having entirely lost his vision by age 22 due to retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye condition passed down through his family.