Yahoo News Strictly 2023 finale's viewing figures are out
The finale of Strictly Come Dancing 2023 attracted nearly 10 million viewers.
9.9 million fans tuned in for the final episode of the season, seeing Coronation Street star Ellie Leach becoming Strictly's youngest-ever winner (via Mirror).
The 22-year-old soap star and her professional partner Vito Coppola were crowned champions and lifted the Glitterball Trophy in the finale that aired on December 16.
Related: Strictly star Bobby Brazier's dad shares sweet tribute ahead of final
For comparison, the 2022 finale was watched by 9.7 million people, with this year's finale of the dance competition managing to top that impressive figure.
The finale saw the three remaining couples — Ellie and Vito, Bad Education's Layton Williams and Nikita Kuzmin, and EastEnders' Bobby Brazier and Diane Buswell — perform a trio of dances to impress judges Anton du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Shirley Ballas, as well as the audience.
"I cannot believe this. For once, Vito is crying more than me!" said Ellie when Tess Daly announced them as the winning couple, with Vito adding: "This is the cherry on the cake. The tip of the iceberg. You are the diamond that is shining."
Related: Strictly's Kai Widdrington reveals details of new role
Another highlight of the finale saw pro dancer Amy Dowden returning to the dancefloor to perform a group number at the beginning of the show.
The professional has been absent from the current series after being diagnosed with breast cancer, though she has made occasional appearances to the Strictly studio.
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Tickets for Strictly's 2024 live arena tour are available now.
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