Strictly Come Dancing has concluded its 2024 series after months of sparkles and glamour, with the final moment seeing comedian Chris McCausland crowned the winner.
The last episode was an emotional one, with plenty of surprise moments and tearful farewells between the couples – and the ending moment was no exception.
Each pair performed three dances: one previous routine selected by the judges, one final Latin or Ballroom routine they chose themselves and a Showdance.
McCausland, Strictly’s first ever blind contestant, sparked high emotion with the re-performance of his Couple’s Choice from Week Eight to John Lennon’s Instant Karma (We All Shine On), and impressed with a high-energy Showdance.
However, his final dance, a Waltz to You’ll Never Walk Alone, saw McCausland – and others – break down in tears.
Part of the dance, which was originally performed back in October, saw the 47-year-old dancing alone for a short moment before professional partner Dianne Buswell reunited with him.
Host Tess Daly was also visibly emotional as she brought the couple to the judging panel, only for the judges to be wiping their eyes as well.
Head judge Shirley Ballas remarked: “I have to give this young lady a cuddle,” as she pulled Buswell for a hug.
The cameras then panned to the professional’s proud parents, who were also crying in the crowd.
“You’re changing people’s lives, you’re an exceptional man,” judge Anton Du Beke told McCausland.
The comedian achieved his first ever perfect score of 40 for the emotional dance.
Elsewhere in the milestone show, former Love Island star Tasha Ghouri also left people “sobbing” when her brother surprised her all the way from Australia.
Ghouri had explained earlier in the show that her family was watching from around the world, including her brother who had been supporting her from Down Under.
After they achieved another perfect score of 40, Winkleman turned to Ghouri to comment: “Congratulations – I have to ask you about your family.”
As Ghouri proceeded to explain how supportive her family had been, Winkleman announced her brother, Alex, had wanted to watch her live, and he soon appeared to give the former Love Island star a long hug.
Plenty of strong statements were made in the final too, with Du Beke commenting that the 2024 finale was “the best ever”.
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As the lengthy episode drew to a close, fans were at the edge of their seats as it was time to announce the winner.
Host Daly commented: “It’s time to announce your Strictly Come Dancing champions,” before confirming McCausland and Buswell were the
McCausland instantly broke down in tears once again as he hugged Buswell, who has never lifted the trophy before.
The two took centre stage as they were handed the coveted Glitterball.
McCausland admitted: “I don’t know what to say”.
