Strictly celebrates Nick Knowles’ birthday in first live show of 2024

During the premiere live episode of the season of Strictly Come Dancing, the show honored Nick Knowles' birthday by presenting the DIY SOS star with a cake.

The BBC One dance competition is back for its 20th anniversary season, coinciding with an inquiry initiated by the network in response to claims made against former professional dancer Giovanni Pernice by his celebrity dance partner from 2023, Amanda Abbington.

Knowles, who was marking his 62nd birthday, kicked off the event alongside his dance partner Luba Mushtuk with a lively jive to "We Built This City" by Starship.

Judge Anton Du Beke described their performance as "inspiring," expressing that he felt "overjoyed" after witnessing their routine, which earned a total of 18 points from the judges.

Following their performance, Knowles received a cake from professional dancer Carlos Gu, who showed up wearing a bright safety jacket and a construction hat. In a playful moment, he took a slice of the cake and playfully smushed it in Knowles' face.

In another segment, ex-field hockey athlete Sam Quek and Nikita Kuzmin showcased a foxtrot routine set to the classic song "Where Did Our Love Go" by The Supremes.

Quek received a score of 23 from the judges, with Motsi Mabuse commenting that she was "radiant," and head judge Shirley Ballas noting that she displayed a lot of "attitude."

During the launch show of Strictly last weekend, the professional dancers put on a stunning performance to celebrate the return of Amy Dowden. She missed the chance to dance with a celebrity partner last year while undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Prior to launching its new series and while facing allegations regarding conduct, the BBC announced plans to implement enhanced welfare protocols. These measures include having a chaperone present "at all times" during rehearsals.