Controversial Strictly star makes huge return to show as BBC fans all say same thing

Strictly Come Dancing viewers took to Twitter (X) in amazement after spotting a famous former pro in the audience of Saturday night's show.

They demanded to know whether they were "hallucinating", expressing their astonishment that a star who'd been well known for fierce on-screen arguments in his day was back on the scene. Brendan Cole, who hails from New Zealand, made history as the first ever dancer to triumphantly lift the Glitterball trophy on the show.

However, he was quickly branded as "difficult to work with" despite his talent and wasn't afraid to challenge the judges when they delivered criticism against him. "I truly thought that bridge was burned," one fan commented, after another shared they were "surprised" they'd been allowed back on the premises.

The screenshot of Brendan sitting behind host Tess Daly quickly circulated across social networks, with one exclaiming: "That is Brendan Cole, right? We're not just hallucinating Ghosts of Strictly's Past?"

Another quizzed: "Brendan in the audience ???? Bring him back onto the show pleasseee I miss his drama."

Someone else echoed: "Nice to see OG Strictly Bad Boy Brendan Cole still turns up!"

After wowing with Natasha Kaplinksy in 2004, his series of fiery arguments began to emerge - including spats with Shirley Ballas.

His last show was in 2017, when he teamed up with Good Morning Britain's Charlotte Hawkins.

He then made the frank revelation that the BBC had decided against renewing his contract the following year, when he spoke on ITV's Lorraine.

"They've just made an editorial decision to not have me back on the show. I’m a little bit in shock. I’m quite emotional, and a bit raw about it," he explained.

Brendan added that he'd been informed through a "phone call", adding that he'd had "15 incredible series" as a Strictly pro beforehand.

He has since gone on to win Dancing on Ice, while he's also currently on the Legends of the Dancefloor tour with other Strictly faves such as Ian Waite, Pasha Kovalev, James Jordan and Vincent Simone.

His appearance as an audience member has now sparked speculation that he could be back in a more official role in the future.

It follows Giovanni's confession that he could return to Strictly following the BBC probe about his conduct with Amanda Abbington, when he told Christine Lampard: "Never say never!"