This year’s series introduced a new way for fans to get behind their favourite celebrit

The BBC has spoken out after facing complaints about the new way Strictly Come Dancing fans can lodge their votes.

Since its inception, Strictly fans had gotten used to picking up the phone to back their favourite contestant.

However, in 2025, the voting system moved online, meaning viewers could only show their support via the BBC website.

On Saturday, Claudia Winkleman and the Strictly team introduced the changes, including a QR code for viewers at home to scan, and the news of five free votes per registered account.

BBC Strictly: Thomas Skinner was sent home after the first public vote

Changing the format after two decades didn’t exactly go down well with the show’s fanbase, many of whom flocked to social media to share their annoyance.

The BBC has now acknowledged the reception, writing that it had received official complaints from people “unhappy about the discontinuation of the premium-rate phone vote for Strictly Come Dancing.”

Responding to the complaints, the BBC has now said: “We understand that the changes to the premium-rate phone vote is disappointing for some viewers.

“We know fans of Strictly who like to vote by phone will be impacted, and it’s not something we would have chosen.

BBC Strictly: Tess Daly revealed the results of the vote during Sunday’s show

“The decision to discontinue such services was made by BT, who previously supplied this to service providers working with the BBC and other broadcasters.

“We have carefully explored phone voting alternatives that would be in line with Ofcom regulations, including ensuring that the Strictly vote is timely and reliable.

“Unfortunately, no viable replacement is available, and so voting will now take place online for all BBC programmes.

“Online voting is already the most popular method for voting on BBC shows, with the majority of votes in the last series of Strictly cast this way.

“To support those new to online voting, clear instructions will be provided during the show. All you need to cast a vote is a free BBC account, which is quick and easy to set up.”

The change in the voting system didn’t pay off for one pairing on Saturday night as Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden became the first casualty of the series.

The duo landed in the dreaded dance-off opposite Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova. The judges unanimously chose to save Mr Robshaw.

The decision came as a shock to some, not least Ross King, after the entertainment reporter landed beneath both Mr Skinner and Mr Robshaw on the leaderboard.

BBC Strictly: Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden faced the dance-off against Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova | BBCIt was a tearful exit for Ms Dowden, in particular, who said in her exit interview to Tess Daly: “I’ve got to know the real Tom, and he is adorable. He’s looked after me.

“We’ve laughed so much. We’ve worked so hard and a glitterball would have been amazing, but what I’ve learnt in the last few years is that happiness, health, and being alive is more important than anything.

“I’ve made a new friend for life, and I wouldn’t change a thing. There is a Ballroom boy in there, so I’m a bit gutted he didn’t get to do the Ballroom, but the last three years, as you know, have been quite difficult for me.

“I lost all confidence as a dancer – but walking into the room with you with a massive smile and a laugh, you brought me back and, honestly, thank you.”

When asked by Ms Daly about their time on the show, Mr Skinner added: “I’ve loved it. I’ve never danced before, and my stay was short, but Amy’s amazing.

“It’s been great fun and I’ve enjoyed it. I can’t really dance that well, but I’ve had fun! Thank you, Amy – sorry that we haven’t done too good, because you’re a different class.”