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As it happenedended

Strictly Come Dancing final 2020 - live: Bill Bailey crowned winner after closest race in years

It was a heartwarming conclusion to an impressive series

Jacob Stolworthy
Saturday 19 December 2020 18:54 GMT
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Bill Bailey and Oti Mabuse dance to 'Rapper's Delight' on Strictly

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Strictly Come Dancing 2020  has been a shorter but no less entertaining run of the BBC competition.

The series began in September having adhered to Covid safety regulations, and has entertained viewers weekly since.

As with every series to date, there have been ups, downs and bizarre performances (here’s looking at Max George and Dianne Buswell’s dance to the Simpsons theme).

With the final four in place, the stage was set for what was being touted as the closest finale in years – and ended in the most heartwarming manner possible.

Follow along with all the live updates as they occurred below

Here we go – the Strictly final is about to unite the country for one final time this year. Enjoy, everyone.

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:01

After the afternoon we’ve all had, this made me feel a little bit emotional too, I have to say.

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:03

Some tricksy things going in the background of this opening performance.

 In a year where we can’t rely on much, at least we can rely on some good lighting.

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:05

Also, didn’t realise I needed to hear New Radicals, “You Only Get What You Give” today

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:05

You can tell that these finalists are already trying to help viewers take their minds off the bleak news. I like that.

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:06

Agreed.

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:07

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman revealing the audience are made up of “the team that got us here”. 

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:07

“If ever people needed cheering up, it’s now” – Tess Daly

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:08

Strictly/I’m a Celeb crossover tweet!

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:09

First up tonight? It’s HRVY

Jacob Stolworthy19 December 2020 18:10

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