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Debbie McGee to return to Strictly Come Dancing for Christmas special

Debbie McGee will return to ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ for the 2019 Christmas special.
The 61-year-old star – who was formerly the assistant of her late husband and magician Paul Daniels – was a fan favourite when she appeared on the BBC Latin and Ballroom dance competition in 2017, and it has now been confirmed she will return to the dance floor for the Christmas special next month.
Debbie will be joined by other former contestants Gemma Atkinson, Chizzy Akudolu, Joe Sugg, Mark Wright, and Richard Arnold.
In a statement, she said: "I thought all my dreams came true two years ago when I was asked to do the series, but to be one of the rare people to be invited back to do the Christmas Special is the icing on the cake. I can’t wait to be back dancing with my ‘Strictly’ family."
‘Good Morning Britain’ star Richard last appeared on the show back in 2012, and has expressed his excitement in heading back to the programme seven years after he last donned a glittery costume.
He said: "I can’t wait to get back out on the dance floor and throw shapes beneath the glitter ball once again. I just can’t promise you’ll recognise them or that they’ll be in any particular order. What I can promise is that one of us will be a professional."
YouTube star Joe – who has since gone on to host the official ‘Strictly’ podcast – made it to the final of the competition last year, where he was partnered with his now girlfriend Dianne Buswell.
And he’s looking forward to heading back to where their romance first blossomed.
He said: "I’m really excited to have a go on the ‘Strictly’ ballroom floor again this Christmas. ‘Strictly’ feels like a home away from home for me, so I will be giving it my best shot and ending the year on a high."
The stars’ professional partners will be confirmed in the coming weeks, and the special will air on Christmas Day (25.12.19) on BBC One.