Strictly Come Dancing 2021: Stars and dancers leave studio post-rehearsals ahead of first live show

Strictly pro Gorka Marquez was all smiles leaving the studio (Picture: JAMES CURLEY/ MAGICMOMENTSUK)

The stars of Strictly Come Dancing 2021 have been putting in the hours ahead of Saturday night’s live show. 

Strictly professionals Katya Jones, Gorka Marquez were seen leaving the studios in high spirits, despite enduring long hours of training.

Pro dancer Katya Jones, who is partnered with Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty this year, gave a cheeky thumbs up to the cameras while wearing a green dress and black thigh-high boots.

Gorka Marquez, who is partnered with former Coronation Street star Katie McGlynn, was all smiles while leaving the studios.

Presenter Tess Daly looked chic, wearing all black, and rocked a protective face shield.

This year’s series has already stirred up a lot of drama behind the scenes, as it was reported that three professional dancers refused to take the Covid vaccination.

Katya Jones looked chic in a green dress and thigh-high boots (Picture: JAMES CURLEY AND MAGICMOMENTSUK)

Safety first for presenter Tess Daly (Picture:JAMES CURLEY AND MAGICMOMENTSUK)

A Strictly spokesperson told Metro.co.uk: ‘We do not comment on speculation of somebody’s Covid vaccination status.’

‘Strictly Come Dancing production has, and will, continue to follow strict government guidelines to ensure the safety of all on the show.’

Prime Minister Boris Johnson expressed his concern, and urged  the unvaccinated pros to get the jab.

‘I don’t want to bully people or to lecture them but, well I don’t mind lecturing them, I’ll lecture them: I think it is a great thing to do for yourself, your family, your community,’ he said.

‘I think people should get a jab and it is a wonderful thing to do.’

More: Strictly Come Dancing

Saturday night’s show is the first time the 12 celebrities and their partners will perform in front of the judges.

Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse will resume their judging roles, along with new judge and Strictly veteran Anton Du Beke – the longest-serving professional dancer on the show, taking Bruno Tonioli’s place.

Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturday at 7.30pm on BBC One

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : Anthony Joshua vs Oleksandr Usyk: Fight predictions from Tyson Fury, Dillian Whyte and more

MORE : Britney Spears’ longtime friend Felicia Culotta no longer has her phone number