RIP Sir Bruce Forsyth

The whole Strictly team is devastated to hear of the passing of Sir Bruce Forsyth. A beloved entertainer, who was the heart of Strictly Come Dancing.

When BBC One took a chance on a brand new ballroom dancing format in 2004, there was no way of telling how the Saturday night audience might respond. So it helped that Strictly Come Dancing was fronted by a genuine legend of stage and screen, much-loved by the British public and respected as a singer, dancer, presenter and all-round entertainer since the 1930s.

Sir Bruce Forsyth was the perfect host for Strictly, bringing a unique warmth and an air of genuine expertise all in the one package. And paired with co-host Tess Daly, Strictly had created a brand new double act that the nation took to its heart.

Brucie’s quick wit came in useful when it came to the Judges. More often than not, some of their more waspish comments would be shot down by a quip from Bruce, while any Celebrities or Professionals left deflated by a critique were sometimes given what would eventually become an established badge of honour – those immortal words “You’re my favourite” from Bruce would send them up the stairs to Tess with broad smiles on their faces.

After 75 successful years in showbusiness, Bruce retired from the show in series 11, but remained a key part of the Strictly family returning for Christmas and Children in Need specials while his spirit, humour and warmth helped set the tone of Strictly, something which has been carried through every series, every spin-off and every special. Bruce Forsyth was, and will continue to be, a huge part of Strictly Come Dancing.

All the team at Strictly send our condolences to his family and friends. We would love to hear your tributes to Sir Bruce below.

Bye, Brucie. You’re our favourite.