Strictly Come Dancing star teases Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe involvement in dance sequences

It isn't long before Strictly Come Dancing makes a return, and a lot has changed since we last laid eyes on the ballroom.

Over the past year, the BBC has announced a flurry of changes to the entertainment show, from five new professional dancers to brand new hosts comprised of Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe – and they're getting stuck in!

"Honestly, they've been incredible," Neil Jones exclusively told Radio Times. "They jumped in. They've wanted to dance as well, which is amazing. Mainly Jojo's persuaded them to do it, but it's really lovely to see Jojo dancing again, and then Josh and Emma.

"They've just been so brilliant, and we've got the new pros and a little few new things happening throughout the series. So I have to say, it's really exciting."

It was reported last month that the presenting trio could be wheeling out their best moves on the dance floor in a big opening number for the launch show.

According to the report, the trio were said to be learning a dance routine ahead of the series, with it marking a notable break from tradition.

Of course, Radebe brings genuine dancing abilities to the line-up as a long-serving Strictly professional and fan favourite – and the pros couldn't be more proud of his new role.

Jones said: "It's always one of those things. Like when we saw Jeanette, you know, she turned onto It Takes Two, and then you've got Anton becoming a judge. Those moments when you see a pro actually coming off the dance floor and stepping up to a new a new era in their life is so amazing.

"And Jojo is a superstar. I've said it from the beginning. The first time I ever met him, I was like,'You're going to go far in life, so just keep doing and keep shining.'"

Strictly Come Dancing begins on Saturday 19 September, and the launch show is said to feature more dancing than ever before – and it will shake up the format many fans know and love.

In a return to how the show used to unveil celebrity pairings, each celebrity and pro will only discover the identity of their partner in front of the Strictly studio audience – but for the first time ever, they will be revealed via three specially-choreographed group dance routines.

As per the BBC's description: "Expect high energy, surprises and a whole lot of dancing as this year’s celebs are tested like never before!"

It continues: "Strictly Come Dancing: The launch show will also take viewers behind the scenes as the celebs begin their dance rehearsals; plus the return of last year’s champion Karen Carney, who will dance her iconic football jive with Carlos Gu."

Mark your calendars, there's only a week to go!

Strictly Come Dancing launches on Saturday 19 September at 7:25pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

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Authors

Katelyn Mensah is the Senior Entertainment Writer for Radio Times, covering all major entertainment programmes, reality TV shows and the latest hard-hitting documentaries. She previously worked at The Tab, with a focus on reality TV and showbiz news and has obtained a BA (Hons) in Journalism.