Strictly Come Dancing is welcoming back two former stars for the Christmas Special – and it’s none other than Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe.

The Blue singers both appeared on the dance show in separate years, but are making their comeback as part of the group. It’ll be the first time all members of the group – including Antony Costa and Duncan James – will be in the Strictly studio.

However, they won’t be showing off their dancing skills this time around.

Blue are singing in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special (Credit: BBC)

Blue revealed as guest appearance on Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special

Blue were revealed as guest performers during Strictly Come Dancing’s spin-off show, It Takes Two, where they teased the Christmas Special.

Fans got to see a sneak peek of the special episode airing on December 25.

TV host Fleur East hinted at who it would be as she introduced the behind-the-scenes montage.

She said: “All rise! Because there is a very special guest performance too.”

Antony admitted: “It feels amazing to be in the Strictly ballroom, I’ve never been here before!”

Duncan chimed in: “I haven’t either, “before gesturing towards Lee and Simon: “But you two know it!”

“Feels like home” joked Simon but Lee confessed: “I was only here a little bit, though.” He was referring to his short time on the show after being sent home early on during the competition!

Duncan joked: “You have a member of Westliffe, you’ve got a member of All Saints – the pressure is on.”

During the behind the scenes clips we also saw the team decorating the studio for Christmas. Unlike the weekly instalments we’ve been enjoying, the Christmas special is actually pre-recorded.

Brian McFadden is one of the confirmed stars in the Christmas Special (Credit: BBC)

Lee Ryan’s time on Strictly

Lee Ryan signed up for Strictly Come Dancing back in 2018 for the 16th series and was partnered up with Nadiya Bychkova.

Unfortunately, he only lasted a few weeks as he was eliminated on the third elimination.

Lee went up against Charles Venn in a dance off and was ultimately sent home.

But he wasn’t the only member of Blue to take part. He was inspired by fellow bandmate Simon Webbe’s attempt years before during Series 12.

Simon teamed up with Kristina Rihanoff and did much better than Lee, reaching the final back in 2014. However, he never managed to take home the Gliterball trophy, coming out as runner up against Frankie Bridge.

George Clarke embodied his inner geek on the weekend (Credit: BBC/Guy Levy)

Strictly pro convinced George Clarke will win Glitterball trophy

Former Strictly Come Dancing pro Brendan Cole has delivered a brutal verdict on the current series, insisting it hasn’t lived up to the hype.

Speaking exclusively to Entertainment Daily on behalf of Sky Vegas, Brendan claimed many contestants failed to stand out.

“When you look back over the series, most of the people who have gone out were pretty average,” he said, adding that only “four or five” dancers were truly strong.

He was adamant that Emmerdale star Lewis Cope and pro partner Katya Jones should have won.

“They should have won the whole show, hands down,” Brendan said. “What Katya created with him was magnificent. That was the winning couple from the very start.”

Brendan also dismissed claims from the judges that it’s been a standout series.

Despite this, Brendan believes the result is already decided. “George will definitely win,” he said, pointing to the power of large online fanbases.

However, he insisted Amber is the strongest dancer left.

The festive season has always been synonymous with spectacle, nostalgia, and moments of pure entertainment, and this year’s Christmas Special promises to deliver all three in abundance as Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe return to the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom as guest stars alongside their Blue bandmate. For fans of the show and followers of British pop culture, the announcement feels like a perfect meeting of eras, blending the glamour of Strictly with the enduring appeal of one of the UK’s most beloved boybands. The Christmas Special, long regarded as one of the highlights of the television calendar, thrives on surprise appearances and celebratory performances, and the return of these familiar faces adds an extra layer of excitement that extends far beyond the dancefloor.

Lee Ryan’s journey back to Strictly is one that carries a sense of unfinished business, as well as reflection. Having competed on the show previously, he is no stranger to the pressures, rehearsals, and emotional highs and lows that come with performing live in front of millions. His original appearance showcased not only his musicality but also his willingness to step outside his comfort zone, trading microphones for dance shoes. Returning for a Christmas Special allows him to reconnect with the show in a different way, free from the competitive grind of weekly eliminations and instead focused on celebration, joy, and performance for its own sake.

Simon Webbe’s involvement brings its own significance. Known for his smooth vocals, warm stage presence, and enduring popularity, Simon has long been admired for his professionalism and versatility. His return to the Strictly stage, even in a guest capacity, highlights the strong bond between music and dance that the show has always championed. Simon’s charisma and connection with audiences make him a natural fit for a festive special, where personality and storytelling are just as important as technical precision. For many viewers, seeing him back under the glittering lights will evoke memories of Blue’s chart-topping days as well as his successful solo career.

The decision to reunite Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe with their Blue bandmate for this special appearance taps directly into the powerful nostalgia that defines much of Christmas television. Blue, as a group, played a significant role in shaping early-2000s pop music in the UK, delivering hit after hit that still resonates with fans today. Their songs, often centered on love, longing, and heartfelt emotion, feel particularly suited to the warmth and sentimentality of the holiday season. Bringing them together on Strictly not only celebrates their musical legacy but also introduces their work to a new generation of viewers who may be discovering Blue for the first time.

Strictly Come Dancing itself has become a cultural institution, especially during Christmas. The festive special is distinct from the main series in tone and purpose, focusing less on competition and more on spectacle and goodwill. Celebrities who return as guests often speak about the sense of relief that comes with performing without the weight of judges’ scores or public votes. This atmosphere allows performers like Lee and Simon to fully embrace the joy of dancing, experiment creatively, and connect with audiences on a more relaxed and playful level.

For Lee Ryan, the Christmas Special represents a chance to revisit the Strictly experience with fresh perspective. Since his initial appearance, he has grown both personally and professionally, navigating the ups and downs of public life with increasing self-awareness. Returning as a guest star allows him to showcase that growth, offering a performance shaped by experience rather than expectation. Viewers will likely notice a different energy in his dancing this time around, one informed by maturity and a deeper appreciation for the craft.

Simon Webbe’s return similarly reflects the enduring relationship between Strictly and the artists who pass through its doors. The show has always maintained a strong connection with the music industry, frequently featuring live performances and collaborations that elevate its productions. Simon’s presence reinforces that connection, reminding audiences that dance and music are inseparable forms of expression. His involvement also underscores Strictly’s ability to bring together performers from different backgrounds, uniting them in a shared celebration of artistry.

The inclusion of Blue as a trio adds a dynamic layer to the Christmas Special’s lineup. Group performances carry a unique energy, driven by chemistry, shared history, and collective confidence. Watching Lee, Simon, and their bandmate perform together again is likely to be a highlight of the evening, offering a blend of polished vocals and festive choreography. The familiarity they share allows them to move and perform with ease, creating a seamless presentation that feels both rehearsed and spontaneous.

Behind the scenes, preparations for the Christmas Special are famously intense, even without the competitive element. Rehearsals often begin weeks in advance, with performers balancing the demands of the show alongside other professional commitments. For artists like Lee and Simon, this means revisiting dance routines, refining harmonies, and adapting to the unique demands of live television. The result is a performance that, while lighthearted on the surface, is underpinned by dedication and discipline.

The Strictly ballroom itself plays a crucial role in shaping the magic of the Christmas Special. Transformed with festive décor, sparkling lights, and seasonal flourishes, it becomes a visual feast that enhances every performance. For returning stars, stepping back into this environment can be both exhilarating and emotional. The familiar scent of hairspray, the hum of anticipation before the music starts, and the warmth of audience applause combine to create an atmosphere unlike any other on British television.

Audience reaction is a key component of Strictly’s success, and the Christmas Special tends to amplify that connection. Viewers tuning in from home often watch with family and friends, making the experience communal and deeply personal. Seeing familiar faces like Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe return to the show fosters a sense of shared history, reminding audiences of previous seasons and performances that have become part of the nation’s collective memory. This sense of continuity is particularly meaningful during the holidays, a time when tradition and reflection are central themes.

The broader significance of this guest appearance extends beyond entertainment. Strictly has long been praised for its ability to reinvent public perceptions of celebrities, showcasing sides of them that audiences may not have seen before. Returning to the show allows Lee and Simon to reaffirm their connection with the public, reminding viewers why they became beloved figures in the first place. Their willingness to participate in a festive celebration speaks to their appreciation for fans and their understanding of the show’s cultural importance.

Music selection is always a focal point of the Christmas Special, and Blue’s extensive catalogue offers plenty of opportunities for emotional resonance. Whether they choose to perform one of their classic hits or a reimagined festive arrangement, the emphasis will likely be on warmth, harmony, and shared joy. The integration of dance with live music creates moments that feel cinematic, elevating the performance beyond a simple concert appearance.

For Strictly’s professional dancers, guest stars like Lee and Simon present exciting creative opportunities. Choreographing routines for experienced performers allows dancers to push boundaries and experiment with more intricate sequences. At the same time, the festive context encourages playful touches and theatrical elements that might not fit within the constraints of the main competition. The result is choreography that prioritizes storytelling and spectacle, perfectly suited to a Christmas audience.

The judges’ role in the Christmas Special is notably different from their usual duties. While they still offer feedback, their comments tend to be warmer and more celebratory, focusing on enjoyment rather than critique. This shift in tone aligns with the overall spirit of the episode, creating an environment where performers feel supported and appreciated. For returning stars, this atmosphere can be both refreshing and affirming, allowing them to focus on connection rather than perfection.

Lee Ryan’s relationship with Strictly has always been marked by openness and vulnerability. His original participation was characterized by moments of self-doubt as well as triumph, making his journey relatable to viewers. Returning for a festive special allows him to revisit those memories with gratitude rather than pressure. His performance is likely to reflect that emotional evolution, offering a sense of closure and celebration rather than competition.

Simon Webbe’s calm confidence provides a complementary energy. Known for his steady presence and polished delivery, he brings a sense of reassurance to the stage. In the context of a Christmas Special, this quality translates into performances that feel comforting and uplifting, perfectly aligned with the season’s spirit. His collaboration with his bandmates further enhances this effect, reinforcing the sense of unity and shared purpose that defines both Blue and the holiday season.

The decision to feature Blue as guest stars also reflects Strictly’s understanding of its diverse audience. The show appeals to viewers across generations, and Blue’s music resonates strongly with those who came of age during the early 2000s. At the same time, their polished pop sound remains accessible and appealing to younger audiences. By bridging this generational gap, the Christmas Special strengthens its appeal as a truly inclusive family programme.

From a production standpoint, the Christmas Special represents one of the most ambitious episodes of the year. Lighting, costumes, staging, and camera work are all elevated to create a sense of grandeur. Guest stars like Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe contribute to this ambition, bringing star power and professional experience that enhance the overall quality of the show. Their familiarity with live performance ensures a level of polish that complements the spectacle.

The emotional impact of seeing familiar performers return to Strictly cannot be understated. For many viewers, the show is intertwined with personal memories, from watching with loved ones to marking milestones in their own lives. The reappearance of artists like Lee and Simon acts as a reminder of those moments, reinforcing the show’s role as a comforting constant in an ever-changing world.

As Christmas approaches, television audiences often seek content that offers escapism, warmth, and a sense of togetherness. The Strictly Christmas Special, bolstered by the return of Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe with Blue, delivers on all these fronts. Their participation transforms the episode into more than just a dance show, turning it into a celebration of music, memory, and shared joy.

The anticipation surrounding their performances is a testament to the lasting impact of both Strictly Come Dancing and Blue as cultural phenomena. Years after their respective debuts, both continue to captivate audiences, proving that genuine talent and authenticity endure. Bringing them together for a festive celebration feels like a natural extension of that legacy.

As viewers settle in to watch the Christmas Special, they will not only be treated to dazzling routines and familiar melodies but also to a reminder of the power of reunion and reflection. Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe’s return, alongside their bandmate, embodies the spirit of the season: looking back with appreciation, celebrating the present, and sharing moments of joy with those around us.

In a television landscape that is constantly evolving, the enduring appeal of shows like Strictly Come Dancing lies in their ability to create moments that feel both timeless and timely. The Christmas Special, enhanced by the presence of beloved guest stars, stands as a shining example of this balance. As the music plays and the dancers take to the floor, the message is clear: some traditions are worth returning to, especially when they bring people together in celebration.

As the final notes fade and the ballroom lights dim slightly, what lingers most powerfully is not just the sparkle of sequins or the precision of choreography, but a profound sense of emotional resonance that settles over the audience. The return of Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe, standing once more beneath the iconic Strictly Come Dancing lights alongside their Blue bandmate, feels like a moment suspended in time. It is a reminder of how music, movement, and memory intertwine, especially at Christmas, a season defined by reflection as much as celebration. In that space, between applause and silence, the true meaning of their return becomes clear.

For Lee Ryan, the moment carries layers of emotion that are impossible to separate from his personal journey. Years of public scrutiny, artistic evolution, and self-discovery stand quietly behind every step he takes on the ballroom floor. There is a softness now in his performance, a grounded presence that speaks of lessons learned and resilience earned. This is not the same young pop star who first stepped into the public eye at the height of Blue’s fame, nor even the same man who once faced the pressures of Strictly competition. This is someone who understands the fleeting nature of success and the lasting value of connection, using the stage not to prove himself, but to share something honest.

Simon Webbe’s presence complements this emotional depth with a steady warmth that feels reassuring, almost protective. His voice, familiar and rich, seems to carry with it the weight of shared experiences and unspoken understanding. Watching him perform is like being welcomed home by an old friend, someone whose voice has soundtracked countless memories. There is confidence in his delivery, but also humility, an awareness that this moment is not about ego or acclaim, but about contribution. His role within the group, and within the Christmas Special itself, feels quietly vital.

Together, as Blue reunites in this festive setting, their shared history becomes an unspoken language. A glance, a smile, a subtle harmony adjustment reveals years of collaboration and camaraderie. These are not just performers sharing a stage; they are artists who have grown together, weathered change together, and returned together. In an industry often marked by fleeting alliances, their bond stands out as something rare and enduring. The Christmas Special offers them not just a platform, but a canvas on which to paint that story for the world to see.

The emotional power of the performance lies in its authenticity. There is no attempt to recreate the past exactly as it was, no forced nostalgia. Instead, there is an acceptance that time has passed, that lives have evolved, and that growth has occurred. The music may echo earlier years, but it is infused with the maturity and perspective that only time can provide. This balance between remembrance and renewal resonates deeply, particularly during a season when many viewers are reflecting on their own journeys.

In living rooms across the country, families sit together, some watching with tears in their eyes, others smiling softly as memories resurface. Parents recall the first time they heard a Blue song on the radio, while younger viewers discover the emotional depth behind the melodies. Strictly Come Dancing has always thrived on its ability to unite generations, and this moment exemplifies that strength. The Christmas Special becomes more than entertainment; it becomes a shared emotional experience, one that bridges ages and backgrounds through music and movement.

The dancers on the floor, both celebrities and professionals, seem to sense this collective emotion. Their movements are not just technically precise but imbued with intention. Every lift, turn, and step feels purposeful, as if each dancer understands they are contributing to something larger than themselves. The choreography does not overwhelm the music but enhances it, allowing the emotion to breathe and flow naturally. This harmony between dance and song is where Strictly truly shines, and on this night, it reaches its fullest expression.

Behind the scenes, the atmosphere is equally charged. There is laughter, quiet moments of reflection, and the occasional tear shed away from the cameras. Crew members who have worked on Strictly for years recognize the significance of the occasion, aware that they are helping to create a moment that will be remembered long after the Christmas decorations are packed away. For many, this is why they do what they do: to be part of something that brings people together in a meaningful way.

As the judges offer their reflections, their words carry a sincerity that transcends critique. They speak not just of performance quality, but of feeling, of presence, of the way the routine made them remember why they fell in love with dance and music in the first place. Their comments echo what the audience already feels: that this was a moment of genuine connection, one that cannot be measured by scores or rankings.

The applause that follows is thunderous, but it is not hurried. It lingers, filled with gratitude and recognition. Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe stand together, absorbing the sound, their expressions a mix of pride, humility, and quiet emotion. In that applause is acknowledgment not only of their talent, but of their willingness to return, to be vulnerable, and to share a piece of themselves with the audience once more.

Christmas, at its heart, is about reunion. It is about coming back together after time apart, about finding common ground in shared experiences, and about honoring the past while embracing the present. The return of Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe with Blue captures this essence perfectly. Their presence on Strictly is not just a festive treat; it is a reflection of what the season represents. It reminds viewers that joy can be found in reconnection, that meaning can be rediscovered in familiar places, and that growth does not diminish nostalgia but deepens it.

As the programme draws closer to its end, there is a gentle sense of closure. Not an ending marked by finality, but one defined by contentment. The performances have been delivered, the emotions shared, and the memories refreshed. What remains is a feeling of warmth that extends beyond the screen, settling into the hearts of those watching. This is the kind of television moment that people talk about for years, recalling where they were and who they watched it with.

For Lee Ryan, stepping away from the Strictly ballroom this time feels different. There is no sense of unresolved tension or unfinished business. Instead, there is gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to return, for the audience’s continued support, and for the chance to celebrate rather than compete. His journey, marked by highs and lows, finds a moment of peace in this festive performance, a reminder that success is not always about progression, but sometimes about appreciation.

Simon Webbe, too, carries this sense of fulfillment. His role in the Christmas Special reinforces his place not just as a performer, but as a storyteller. Through song, he communicates emotion with clarity and sincerity, reminding audiences of the power of a well-sung lyric delivered from the heart. His presence is a steady anchor amid the sparkle and spectacle, grounding the performance in something deeply human.

The legacy of Blue is subtly reaffirmed through this appearance. Not through grand statements or dramatic reunions, but through simple presence and shared artistry. Their music, once a defining sound of a generation, proves its timelessness by fitting so naturally into this festive setting. It adapts, evolves, and continues to resonate, much like the group themselves.

As viewers switch off their televisions and return to the rhythms of the holiday season, the impact of the Christmas Special lingers. Conversations spark about favorite moments, about memories tied to certain songs, about the unexpected emotions stirred by a dance routine. In this way, the show extends beyond its broadcast, weaving itself into the fabric of the season.

Strictly Come Dancing has always understood that its greatest strength lies not in competition, but in connection. The return of Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe with Blue exemplifies this truth. Their appearance is a reminder that entertainment, at its best, does more than distract; it resonates. It invites reflection, fosters unity, and creates space for emotion in a world that often moves too fast.

As the final credits roll, there is a quiet understanding that something special has occurred. Not because it was perfect, but because it was sincere. In a glittering ballroom filled with music and movement, three artists stood together and shared a piece of their story. In doing so, they reminded everyone watching that some moments are worth returning to, especially when they are filled with heart.

And so, the Strictly Christmas Special closes not with a sense of spectacle alone, but with something far more enduring: a feeling of togetherness. Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe, reunited with Blue, leave the stage having offered more than a performance. They offer a memory, one wrapped in music, dance, and emotion, ready to be carried forward into many Christmases yet to come.