Claudia Winkleman caused quite a stir with BBC viewers just minutes into her Strictly Come Dancing return for the 2024 series.
Alongside regular co-host Tess Daly, Winkleman returned to the ballroom to introduce this year’s crop of 15 famous faces hoping to impress the judges.
For the occasion, Daly opted for an all-red power suit and silver heels.
Meanwhile, Winkleman decided to wear a flowing, all-beige, high-necked gown.
As the duo took to the stage to welcome the likes of Anton du Beke, Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse back to the judging panel, both Daly and Winkleman were keen to hear how the judges felt to be back.
However, the conversation among fans on social media at home centred on Winkleman’s ensemble, with several ridiculing the look.
“Who dresses Claudia, today she looks like a Princess Lea. #Strictly,” one fan said as they drew comparisons with the Star Wars franchise.
The comparisons kept on coming from a second who said: “Why has Claudia come dressed as a Jedi?! #Strictly.”
Meanwhile, a third called for a member of crew to be axed for the choice: “Who in gods name is Claudia’s stylist as they need sacking! #Strictly #strictlycomedancing.”
“No really what is Claudia wearing. The force is strong. #Strictly #strictlycomedancing,” a fourth chipped in.
A fifth kept the Star Wars jokes coming: “Claudia looking a tad Obi One Kenobi/Princess Leia on #Strictly tonight. May the force be with her.”
And a sixth bluntly critiqued: “I love Claudia but what the chuffing hell is that beige monstrosity #Strictly.” (sic)
Soon after welcoming the judges back to the show and introducing the 15 new famous faces to the ballroom, it was time for the celebs to perform.
Nick Knowles was first up alongside his dance partner Luba Mushtuk – however, his Jive failed to win over the judges as it raked in a score of 18.
Next up was Sam Quek and pro dancer Nikita Kuzmin who took on a Foxtrot.
The former Question of Sport star managed to earn a respectable 23 with her debut dance of the series.
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Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu underwhelmed judge Craig Revel Horwood who only lifted his four paddle for the singer following his Samba.
However, Mabuse, Ballas and Du Beke scored more favourably to make sure he ended with a score of 21.
Fans will be able to see what the first leaderboard of the series looks like when the Week One live show comes to a close.
