There wasn’t a dry eye in the Strictly Come Dancing studio after an emotional Bruce Forsyth tribute.
The dancers paid homage to the light footed presenter during the launch of the 2017 season, dancing to Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me to the Moon – a song the 89-year-old had sung while presenting the show.
After, they finished their performance by striking Bruce’s signature pose, receiving appreciative applause from both the audience and the hosts.
Tearful co-presenter Tess Daly just about managed to keep it together as she watched the touching tribute to her friend and former colleague, quoting Bruce’s infamous catchphrase, ‘Didn’t he do well!’
There was also a montage of Bruce, showcasing his unique and unforgettable character, before Strictly co-workers shared their memories of ‘one of the greatest entertainers the country has ever known’.
Tess spoke about the ‘brilliant’ time bubbly octogenarian Bruce suddenly broke into an impromptu Gangnam Style dance routine, and everyone joined in.
Former contestants recalled their delight when Bruce would refer to them as his ‘favourite’, with Claudia Winkleman describing him as ‘So warm, so loving. The kindest man in the world’.
You might need to keep the tissues handy for the following footage:
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An army of Strictly fans quickly took to Twitter, discussing their feelings over the tribute:
Nice to see you Bruce, to see you nice.
Gone, but most certainly not forgotten.
Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.