BBC Strictly viewers distracted by Tess and Claudia's 'Wicked' inspired outfits

Strictly Come Dancing viewers were left distracted as they compared presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman to Wicked characters Glinda and Elphaba

Strictly Come Dancing returned to the nation's screens, with 15 celebrities ready to dazzle on the dance floor in a bid to win over judges and viewers.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman resumed their hosting roles for Saturday's show after a hit opening week. But early into the live broadcast, it was Tess and Claudias striking gowns that captured viewers' attention, with many making comparisons to characters from 'Wicked,' Glinda, and Ephebel.

Claudia lit up the stage in a shimmering green dress, while Tess chose a bold pink off-the-shoulder frock. The show kicked off with Tess's welcoming words: "Welcome to Strictly Come Dancing.", reports the Mirror.

Claudia picked up the introduction with a hint of excitement: "Tonight our 15 couples will be dancing for your vote at home for the very first time."

Taking over, Tess highlighted the stakes: "The competition has only just begun," and added: "No one wants to leave this early and we don't want to lose anyone."

While Claudia acknowledged the gravity of the eliminations with Tess, stating: "We do not but tomorrow night, two couples will face the dance-off."

Tess proceeded to set the evening's agenda by introducing the judging panel: "So tonight not only do the couple have to impress you but also these four."

The introduction was complete as Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke joined the scene with a dance sequence to take their seats before the hopeful participants.

Viewers of Strictly Come Dancing were taken aback by the sartorial choices of hosts Tess and Claudia, with their outfits sparking quite the conversation on social media. One viewer was quick to criticise: "Not a fan of either outfit from Tess and Claud this week #strictly."

Others made light-hearted remarks: "Following Claudia's appearance as a Jedi last week, Tess has come this week as Barbie."

There was some confusion too: "Why are Claudia and Tess dressed like Elphaba and Elinda? ? #StrictlyComeDancing."

Some fans expressed their amusement at the unexpected theme: "Tess and Claudia channelling their inner Elphaba and Glinda for tonight's episode #Strictly."

And the references to 'Wicked' continued: "Are Claudia and Tess in Wicked? #StrictlyComeDancing." A particular enthusiast loved the look: "I love that Tess and Claudia have come dressed as Glinda and Elphaba."

As the show moves into its second week, the stakes rise with the looming prospect of the season's first elimination on Sunday night.

With voting now open, it's down to Strictly's audience to keep their most-loved pairs twirling on the dance floor.

After dazzling in their inaugural dances, Love Islands Tasha Ghouri alongside JLSs JB Gill are looking favourable in the eyes of bookmakers.

Conversely, it appears the odds are stacked against Toyah Wilcox and Neil Jones, who face an uphill battle after their performance left them languishing at the lower end of the leaderboard.

The first results show will feature an "avant-garde gothic tango" performance by the judges and professional dancers, set to Prince's 'When Doves Cry' and New Order's 'Blue Monday', it has been disclosed.

Strictly Come Dancing live show airs every Saturday on BBC One and iPlayer

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