BBC Strictly fans distracted by Claudia Winkleman's outfit moments into live show

Strictly Come Dancing viewers were left distracted within seconds of Saturday's night live show kicking off.

Hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly are back for a new season of the much-loved competition but as they introduced this evening's event (September 21), fans were immediately drawn to Claudia's "bizarre" outfit.

Claudia wore a very loose cream gown with huge sleeves and a belt secured around her waist, complete with a high collar – and she was instantly compared to Star Wars icon Princess Leia.

Strictly fans wasted no time in taking to X so share their thoughts with one person writing: “Hey Claudia Princess Leia wants her dress back!"

A second added: “Claudia is serving MONK in that dress!" A third chimed in with: “Why is Claudia Winkleman dressed like she’s in Star Wars?"

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Strictly has once again kicked off for 2024 after an exciting launch show. Week one sees the celebs and their professional partners team up for their first chance at placing on the leaderboard after performing a routine.

Though the judges will give comments and the celebs will be scored, nobody will be eliminated in the first week. Week two is when the tension will really start to ramp up, and one celebrity will go home for good.

Viewers will be able to partake when the lines open in week two next Saturday (September 28) and the first elimination of the series will air the night after (Sunday, September 29). All the action tonight will kick off at 7pm on BBC One, but there will be no results show this weekend.

Currently topping betting odds are X Factor winner Shayne Ward and JLS star JB Gill – though ex-pro dancer Erin Boag has warned that Miranda star Sarah Hadland is also one to watch.

Strictly Come Dancing live show currently airs every Saturday on BBC One and iPlayer