Alert – Who won Strictly Come Dancing 2024? Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell are crowned the WINNERS in ‘best ever’ final as blind comedian saves the show following year of scandal – News Alerts

Strictly Come Dancing’s Chris McCausland and his pro partner Dianne Buswell have been crowned 2024’s champions after the comedian made history as the show’s first ever blind contestant.

Chris, 47, pipped fellow finalists Tasha Ghouri, JB Gill and Sarah Hadland to the post in the show’s ‘best ever’ final on Saturday, with his cheeky whit and inspiring story helping to save the show following a year of scandals.

The final, which gained the highest amount of votes from the public ever, saw all the couples each perform three dances for the judges before hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced Chris as the winner of the much sought after Glitterball trophy.

The funnyman broke down in tears as he was embraced by his fellow celebs before throwing Dianne triumphantly over his shoulder while the audience went wild.

Asked how the moment felt by Tess and Claudia, Chris said: ‘It’s astonishing, I don’t know what to say.

‘I honestly thought I was going to go out in the first week or two and I know nobody went out in the first week but I still thought I could’.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Chris McCausland and pro partner Dianne Buswell have been crowned 2024’s champions following Saturday’s glitzy live final – after making history as show’s first ever blind contestant

The comedian, 47, pipped fellow finalists Tasha Ghouri , JB Gill and Sarah Hadland to the post in the show’s ‘best ever’ final as his cheeky whit and inspiring story was said to have saved the show following a year of scandals

The highest ever scoring final saw all the couples each perform a whopping three dances for the judges before hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced Chris as the winner

Chris and Dianne couldn’t contain their excitement as they triumphantly raised the Glitterball trophy

‘We’ve just lasted and lasted and [Dianne] has got so much out of me and she deserves [the trophy] so much’ as he went on to gush over her ‘positivity’ and ‘belief’.

He joked: ‘Unless she changes her number she’s stuck with me. This is for [Dianne] and everyone out there, it just shows that with the opportunity and support anything is possible!’.

Speaking earlier in the show, Chris said: ‘I hope [me being on Strictly] will make a difference in people’s attitudes towards people who are blind and disabled people.

‘When I started this my daughter was really nervous, she’s eleven, and I think she fed off my fears and worries but she’s been enjoying watching me and she’s really proud.

‘I’ve learned that I am more resilient, I think It will take a lot more to scare me in the future and something doesn’t have to be perfect to be a success.

With a dark cloud hanging over it since January when 2023 contestant Amanda Abbington first came forward with her complaints about pro partner Giovanni Pernice, Chris has brought the embattled show’s viewers bundles of joy.

The show was then hit with a fresh wave of scandal when Graziano Di Prima was sacked in July for ‘kicking’ his partner, Love Island star Zara McDermott.

Asked how the moment felt by Tess and Claudia he struggled for words clearly gobsmacked by the result, before replying: ‘It’s astonishing, I don’t know what to say’

‘I honestly thought I was going to go out in the first week or two, and I know nobody went out in the first week but I still thought I could’

‘We’ve just lasted and lasted and [Dianne] has got so much out of me and she deserves [the trophy] so much’ as he went on to gush over her ‘positivity’ and ‘belief’

Chris said: ‘This is for [Dianne] and everyone out there, it just shows that with the opportunity and support anything is possible!’

Fellow finalists (L-R) Aljaž Škorjanec, Tasha Ghouri, Lauren Oakley, JB Gill, Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola watched on as Chris was crowned champion

Speaking earlier in the show, Chris said: ‘I hope [me being on Strictly] will make a difference in people’s attitudes towards people who are blind and disabled people ‘

‘When I started this my daughter was really nervous, she’s eleven, and I think she fed off my fears and worries but she’s been enjoying watching me and she’s really proud’

‘I’ve learned that I am more resilient, I think It will take a lot more to scare me in the future and something doesn’t have to be perfect to be a success’

Speaking about the new friendship he had formed with Dianne Chris said: ‘Unless she changes her number she’s stuck with me’

All his fellow celebs celebrated together as they lifted the comedian and Dianne onto their shoulders while confetti fell onto the dance floor

Dianne’s boyfriend and former Strictly contestant Joe Sugg proudly applauded her victory

Host Claudia Winkleman revealed the 2024 final was the highest scoring in the show’s 20-year history

With a dark cloud hanging over it since January when 2023 contestent Amanda Abbington first came forward with her complaints about pro partner Giovanni Pernice, Chris has brought the embattled show’s viewers bundles of joy

The show was then hit with a fresh wave of scandal when Graziano Di Prima was sacked in July for ‘kicking’ his partner, Love Island star Zara McDermott

Strictly Come Dancing scores for final dances

Judge’s Choice

JB Gill and Lauren Oakley – 40
Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec – 39
Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell – 38
Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola – 39

Showdance

JB Gill and Lauren Oakley – 39
Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec – 40
Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell – 38
Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola – 38

Favourite Routine

JB Gill and Lauren Oakley – 40

Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec – 40

Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell – 40

Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola – 40

Total Scores

JB Gill and Lauren Oakley – 119

Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec – 119

Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell – 118

Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola – 116

Giovanni was cleared of ten out of Amanda’s 16 allegations when the BBC probe concluded in September but remained absent for the current edition of the series.

Following his abrupt exit from the programme, Giovanni went on to appear on the Italian version of Strictly.

Despite bosses finding Giovanni was not threatening or physically abusive, it did uphold some of Amanda’s complaints of verbal bullying and harassment.

Strictly's Tasha Ghouri is moved to tears as her brother makes a surprise appearance to watch her in the final after flying from

The BBC also agreed with Amanda at times he appeared to be giving her overly negative feedback.

In a written statement, a spokesperson for Giovanni said: ‘We are pleased that this six-month review has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour by Giovanni.

‘Giovanni is relieved that the overwhelming majority of allegations out to the BBC have not been upheld and looks forward to continuing his work on Dancing With The Stars in Italy this season.’

Following Chris’ speculator Steven Morris from disability charity Sense: ‘Chris’s historic Strictly Come Dancing win goes to show that given opportunities and support, disabled people can break down barriers many wrongly don’t think are possible.

Kerry Bevan of Guide Dogs UK agreed: ‘Chris and Dianne are worthy winners and it’s even more poignant that this milestone occurred during Strictly’s 20th anniversary series. Dianne has been a shining example of how we can all take steps to make the world a more inclusive and accessible place’.

The action packed show saw the judges hand out numerous tens and each celeb were left emotional as she they described how much they’d loved appearing on the BBC show.

During one tearful segment, Tasha struggled to contain her emotions after she was surprised by beloved brother Alex who had jetted in from especially to see her perform one final time.

Following Chris’ speculator win, Steven Morris from disability charity Sense said: ‘Chris’s historic win goes to show that given opportunities and support, disabled people can break down barriers many wrongly don’t think are possible.

The action packed show saw the judges hand out numerous tens and each celeb were left emotional as she they described how much they’d loved appearing on the BBC show

During one tearful segment, Tasha struggled to contain her emotions after she was surprised by beloved brother Alex who had jetted in from especially to see her perform one final time

Speaking about her sibling ahead of the reveal she said: ‘He’s in right now, my brother is so supportive and I really miss him. He can’t be here today.’

Host Claudia Winkleman then announced Alex had the journey as he emerged, leaving Tasha overcome as she threw her arms around her brother as she choked back tears

Alex exclaimed that he couldn’t be prouder of his little sister

Judge Anton Du Beke declared the Love Island star was ‘the best ever’ dancer that had ever competed on the show

Vito Coppola effortlessly lifted actress Sarah Hadland during one very tricky routine

The Miranda actress’ dancing was branded flawless by the judges

Speaking about her sibling ahead of the reveal she said: ‘He’s in right now, my brother is so supportive and I really miss him. He can’t be here today.’

Host Claudia Winkleman then announced Alex had the journey as he emerged, leaving Tasha overcome as she threw her arms around her brother as she choked back tears.

Meanwhile fans were delighted to see Amy Dowden as she made a surprise return to the dancefloor for the grand final.

Eagle-eyed viewers spotted the Welsh pro, 34, make a dazzling appearance as the Strictly professionals kicked off the show with a performance to Dreamer by Livin’ Joy.

Amy looked sensational in a sparkly gold dress as she danced next to pal and fellow dancer Kai Widdrington, 29.

She had originally been partnered with JLS star JB Gill, but was forced to withdraw from the series due to injury.

Professional dancer Lauren Oakley stepped in to partner JB, and together they made it all the way to the final.

Fans were overjoyed to see Amy back on stage, even if just for a moment, as they took to X to share their thoughts.

They said: ‘Great to see Amy dancing’: ‘So amazing seeing Amy back on the dancefloor: ‘Nice to see Amy dancing again with the professionals! But wow what an opening!: ‘Nice to see Amy’: Great to see Amy in the professional dance:’ Yay Amy dancing at the final,’

Prior to the Saturday’s night show, Amy showed her support for the pair as she said: ‘Wishing these two all the luck in the world. Go dance your heart outs but most importantly enjoy every second and beat on that dance floor.

‘I’m so proud of you @jbgill , I knew from day one you could go all the way! Your talent and kindness has shone through and I know how proud you’ve made your family! I’ll be there cheering you on!.

Ahead of the result former pro Giovanni, 33, said he was backing JB and Lauren to win, after he stepped back from the series before this year’s competition kicked off after bullying allegations from his former partner Amanda.

Meanwhile fans were delighted to see Amy Dowden as she made a surprise return to the dancefloor for the grand final (pictured with fellow pro Kai Widdrington)

Eagle-eyed viewers spotted the Welsh pro, 34, making a dazzling appearance as the Strictly professionals kicked off the show with a performance to Dreamer by Livin’ Joy

Amy looked sensational in a sparkly gold dress as she danced next to pal and fellow dancer Kai Widdrington , 29

Amy made a triumphant return to the ballroom following her cancer battle, before an early exit as a result of a foot injury (pictured with JB in September)

Fans took to X to share their excitement at Amy’s return

Pro dancer Lauren Oakley stepped in to partner JB, and together they made it all the way to the final

The duo did’t fail to impress with their incredible moves

They also recreated their Mary Poppins routine from Musicals Weeks

Giovanni took to social media amid the grand final of Strictly to share his support for JLS star JB Gill and his professional partner Lauren Oakley – after stepping back from the show following allegations of inappropriate behaviour

Since being axed from Strictly Come Dancing, Giovanni has gone on to appear on Dancing with the Stars in Italy (pictured with Bianca Guaccero in November 2024)

Elsewhere Vito Coppola, 32, suffered a very awkward wardrobe malfunction and was left desperately struggling to hold up his trousers during the American Smooth with Miranda star Sarah , 53

While still giving the routine his all the former winner was still forced to quickly return his hand to his waist in a bid to avoid being left rather red faced

Following the dance Sarah was left in hysterics after realising the issue, while host Tess , 55, declared: ‘We have a wardrobe issue! Are you able to maintain your decency?’

He said: ‘Good luck to this fantastic duo tonight ! but especially to Our dancing queen @laurenmayoakley.’

Elsewhere on the show Vito Coppola, 32, suffered a very awkward wardrobe malfunction and was left desperately struggling to hold up his trousers during the American Smooth with Miranda star Sarah, 53.

While still giving the routine his all the former winner was still forced to quickly return his hand to his waist in a bid to avoid being left rather red faced.

Following the dance Sarah was left in hysterics after realising the issue, while host Tess, 55, declared: ‘We have a wardrobe issue! Are you able to maintain your decency?’.

Giggling the dancer did everything he could to disguise the mishap before the judges scored the performance a very impressive 39 out of 40.

Meanwhile Nick Knowles, 62, took to his Instagram to explain his absence from the Strictly final and filmed himself watching the live show from the comfort of his fiancée Katie Dadzie’s home in Berkshire.

Strictly's Vito Coppola suffers VERY awkward wardrobe malfunction and is left desperately struggling to hold up his trousers during grand finale

The DIY SOS star revealed he wasn’t appearing on the show or in the group dance after having a knee operation two days ago – an injury he sustained while competing in the competition.

The presenter told his followers: ‘Hello everyone. So it’s Saturday night, and the big final is on TV. I’m watching it, same as you, but from home rather than being in the studio because, unfortunately, I had a big arm operation, and I’ve now also had a big leg operation.

‘As a result, I’m only two days out from surgery, so I can’t be there.

‘But I’m sat here watching the amazing show like you, wishing the best of luck to my buddies – JB, Sarah, Chris, and Tasha – who all deserve to be champions, so I hope they all do great.

‘Thank you for all your lovely well-wishes and for wishing me a speedy recovery. I’m really sorry I can’t be there with all the others too. It’s been the most wonderful experience.

‘Merry Christmas to all of you, happy New Year, and congratulations to whoever wins the final.’

Alongside the clip, he penned: ‘So I can’t be there at the final because I’m only two days out of surgery and it was quite a big operation on my knee – for those that want to know it was a full ACL reconstruction and two meniscus repairs which included harvesting a replacement tendon from my hamstring – and I’m still recovering from the operation to re attach my distal bicep which makes moving on crutches difficult too.

‘I had to have the operation now to be mobile and ready to start filming on @BBCDIYSOS at the beginning of February.

‘Lots of rehab and work with physios to come but I will go at it as hard as I did the dance training and success will be managed in stages.

‘So as I lay on the sofa looking like half a Darth Vader with all the added robot attachments I wish you a happy Christmas and an adventurous and fun new year. See you in 2025.’

Nick wasn’t the only star missing from Saturday’s final, as Paul Merson was also absent from the show.

Meanwhile Nick Knowles , 62, took to his Instagram to explain his absence from the Strictly final and filmed himself watching the live show from the comfort of his fiancée Katie Dadzie’s home in Berkshire

The DIY SOS star revealed he wasn’t appearing on the show or in the group dance after having a knee operation two days ago – an injury he sustained while competing in the competition

Nick pictured on the show with partner Luba Mushtuk

Nick has kept his followers up to date with his operation

Nick said he will have to have lots of rehab and is on crutches following the operation two days ago

Nick wasn’t the only star missing from Saturday’s final, as Paul Merson was also absent from the show (pictured last week)

A Strictly spokeswoman said: ‘Paul is unwell today unfortunately. He will be very much missed and is sad he couldn’t make it’ (pictured on the show with partner Katya Jones)

Former footballer-turned-pundit Paul, 56, who was partnered with Karen Hauer, did not turn up to show as he was unwell.

A Strictly spokeswoman told The Sun: ‘Paul is unwell today unfortunately. He will be very much missed and is sad he couldn’t make it.’

‘First to be able to walk without crutches, climb stairs, walk safely on uneven ground by February and then dance too as I have to be able to do my first dance at my wedding in June and I’m assured if I work hard I will be back to 100% as good as new in about 8 months

‘Best of luck to my buddies competing tonight and those who are back together in studio. I loved the dancing and the cameraderie – the injuries not so much.

‘Merry Xmas to you all and thank you for your wonderful messages wishing me to get well soon.

‘I’ve got some great work coming this year with more amazing DIY SOS shows – two of which we have filmed already and so many wonderful families to introduce you to – there’s two amazing travel shows through Mongolia coming soon too which is epic and beautiful and full of amazing people.