The wait is finally over as this year’s Strictly Come Dancing celebrities have been put into their professional pairings. During the launch show, BBC viewers saw a glimpse of what was to come as the line-up took part in a large group number to Dance Yourself Dizzy by Liquid Gold.
However, it looks as though there could be trouble for one Strictly Come Dancing contestant as they’ve been dealt a crushing blow ahead of the first live show.
According to the latest odds, former football pro Paul Merson could be the first person to be eliminated from the programme.
With odds at 9/4, he could be making an early exit with Nick Knowles close behind with odds of 3/1.
Paul Merson's Strictly Troubles
The bookmakers have placed former footballer Paul Merson as the likely first casualty of the dance floor, with odds standing at 9/4, suggesting he might face an untimely departure. The bookmakers have also tipped Nick Knowles as another potential early departure from the BBC show, with the DIY SOS star being given odds of 3/1.
Who Will Win Strictly Come Dancing 2024?
While Paul Merson might be facing an early exit, other contestants are already being tipped for a potential win. JLS star JB Gill has been given odds of 7/2 to win the entire competition, making him a clear favourite. He is followed by Love Island's Tasha Ghouri who is currently at odds of 4/1 to take the Glitterball Trophy.
The Return of Amy Dowden
JB Gill has been matched with pro Amy Dowden, who has made her return to the BBC show after battling cancer. Amy was warmly welcomed back to the show, with the other Strictly professionals giving her a huge group hug at the end of one opening routine.
Early Departure Concerns
The sportsman, aged 56, has been teamed up with Karen Hauer, who expressed her desire for Paul to relish every moment of the journey.
She told the BBC: “I want everyone to enjoy themselves because this is one of the greatest experiences we're going to have the most fun!”
Karen Hauer and Paul Merson's First Dance
Karen has disclosed that their inaugural dance will be an American Smooth to the song Vindaloo by Fat Les.
Paul Merson's Approach to Strictly
Discussing his participation in the show, Paul has admitted his intention to immerse himself fully.
Responding to whether he was pleased to be partnered with Karen, the show's longest-standing professional dancer, he said: “Yeah, I'm well happy.
“So pleased. You've put the two oldest together… and I’m one of them!”
An Early Exit?
The first live show of Strictly Come Dancing will air on September 21 on BBC One from 7pm. Will Paul Merson be the first contestant to be eliminated? Only time will tell, but it seems that the bookmakers are not very optimistic about his chances.
The Odds Don't Lie
It's clear that the bookmakers have made their predictions and it's now up to the contestants to prove them wrong. While Paul Merson may be facing an early exit, other contestants are already being tipped for a potential win. It looks as though JB Gill and Tasha Ghouri are the ones to watch this year. But with so much talent on the dance floor, anything is possible, and the competition is sure to be fierce.
