BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing on BBC1 has won the first ratings battle with ITV’s The X Factor.
The Strictly audience peaked at 9.7 million, while The X Factor peaked at 9 million.
“Everyone’s delighted that Strictly had its biggest audience for a launch show since 2006,” said a Strictly source.
“Now we’re working hard to get ready for the live shows starting at the end of the month.”
Last week, The X Factor’s Simon Cowell had said: “If it’s us versus Peter Andre [a Strictly contestant], then I’m putting my money on us.”
He lost that best.
The Strictly launch show introduced the 15 celebrity contestants to their professional dance partners.
It also featured an embarrassing wardrobe malfunction for Ola Jordan, as she was paired with athlete Iwan Thomas.
Iwan tried to wrap Ola around his body and got stuck - and Ola was left red-faced as one of her breasts popped out of her bikini-style top.
Ola later tweeted:
“Ha ha! @Iwanrunner Brilliant! In this 1 second he ripped my skirt, broke my nail and my boobs popped out!! This is going to be great series”
Check out our Strictly picture special, featuring all the celebs with their dance partners.
Strictly Come Dancing continues on BBC, Friday, September 25.
