Strictly Come Dancing's return on Saturday night peaked with more than 9 million viewers, according to early ratings data.
The pre-recorded launch show featured the reveal of the partnerships for the new series, including Strictly's first ever same-sex couple - boxer Nicola Adams and professional Katya Jones.
The 90-minute episode averaged 8.6 million viewers and a 42.2% audience share, up on last year's 7.8 million (44.7%) but down slightly on 2018's 9 million (47.6%).
The show also pulled in a massive 980,000 young viewers, according to Broadcast, which represented almost half of that demographic watching TV at the time.
The first of the live shows airs this Saturday night on BBC One.
> In Pictures: The Strictly Come Dancing 2020 couples
Neil Wilkes
Follow us on Bluesky or on X/Twitter and like us on Facebook for the latest entertainment news alerts.
Media Mole's Lowest Ever Sky Offer: Get Sky Essential, Sky Stream & Netflix for just £15 a month + £0 upfront fee for 24 months!
Prices may change during this period. Ends March 19, 2025
