SHE made Strictly Come Dancing history by winning the Glitterball trophy two years in a row.

The excitement is not limited to fans alone. Fellow professionals, from dancers to choreographers to producers, have expressed admiration for Mabuse’s approach. By focusing on her strengths—performance, mentorship, and charisma—she sidesteps potential controversies, avoids overexposure, and positions herself for sustained career growth. It is a lesson in calculated risk-taking, adaptability, and self-awareness, highlighting why she continues to be one of the most influential figures in dance entertainment today.

As the new season unfolds, speculation continues regarding how Mabuse’s presence will reshape the show. Will her performances dominate episodes? Will contestants adjust their strategies to align with her guidance? How will the show balance her visibility with the traditional judging panel? While these questions remain unanswered, one certainty emerges: Oti Mabuse’s return has already altered the landscape of the program, creating a buzz that few other television events can match.

For fans, the excitement is deeply personal. Mabuse has long been a symbol of dedication, skill, and passion. Her performances have inspired countless viewers to pursue dance, appreciate the artistry of movement, and recognize the emotional power inherent in performance. This return, especially after the disappointment of her Dancing on Ice exit, is a moment of redemption—not just professionally, but emotionally, for those who have followed her journey with devotion.

Social media reactions capture the global scale of anticipation. Tweets, posts, and video clips reveal fans counting down the days, sharing predictions, and expressing joy at the news. The international attention underscores Mabuse’s enduring appeal: she is not merely a domestic television star, but a figure whose influence transcends borders, inspiring audiences worldwide.

And now professional dancer Oti Mabuse is set to waltz back into the fold as a regular choreographer on the BBC series — almost four years after quitting for ITV.

Bill Bailey and Oti Mabuse holding the Strictly Come Dancing glitterball trophy.
Oti Mabuse, pictured with Bill Bailey, is set to waltz back into the Strictly family as a regular choreographer on the BBC series
Credit: PA

Oti Mabuse in jungle setting for I'm A Celebrity.
Oti in the jungle on I’m A Celeb
Credit: ITV

Oti Mabuse in a white dress on The Masked Dancer set.
Oti impressed as a panellist on The Masked Dancer between 2021 and 2022
Credit: ITV
Oti, 35 — who has been a panellist on The Masked Dancer and starred on last year’s I’m A Celebrity — had also been a judge on ITV skating contest Dancing On Ice until it was shelved in March.

She kept her hand in at Strictly in recent years by helping plan routines.

A source said: “Oti has always held a special place in her heart for Strictly.

“She loves nothing more than watching her choreography come to life on the dance floor. It truly is a family show for Oti, with her sister, Motsi Mabuse, on the judging panel.

“Oti loved her time on Dancing On Ice, but this will give her more time to get stuck back into Strictly.

“Producers are delighted that Oti is back and cannot wait to hear her ideas.”

South African-born Oti announced her departure from Strictly in February 2022 after seven years as a professional dancer on the show.

She won the 2019 series with actor Kelvin Fletcher and triumphed again a year later with comedian Bill Bailey.

At the time, the Beeb said of her decision to leave: “Oti has been a truly wonderful part of Strictly.

“Her energy, creativity and talent have contributed to so many of the show’s most memorable moments and she will be hugely missed, not only by viewers, but the entire team.

“She leaves a dazzling legacy behind her as the only professional dancer to lift the Glitterball trophy in two consecutive years.

“She will always be at the very heart of our Strictly family.”

Oti joined the show in 2015, having previously appeared on the German equivalent, Let’s Dance, and was partnered with then pro boxer Anthony Ogogo.

They were eliminated in week three.

Motsi became a judge in 2019.

Earlier this year, Oti, who had a daughter with husband Marius Iepure in 2023, revealed that she would “never say never” to a return to Strictly.

In an interview with Prima magazine, the star added: “The doors are always open, which is really, really nice.

“Aljaz (Skorjanec) went back and he’s doing really well. I went back to choreograph with him and he’s just in a different space. He’s absolutely sensational. So, you never know.”

Oti Mabuse, a Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer, in a teal fringed dance costume.
Oti is the only dancer to win the Glitterball trophy in successive years in 2019 and 2020
 Credit: BBC

Oti Mabuse, the sparkling star of dance who has mesmerized millions with her talent, charisma, and magnetic presence, is back in a way that has sent shockwaves across the entertainment world. Following her sudden exit from Dancing on Ice, a show where she had proven herself to be a fan favorite, many feared that the career momentum she had built over years on Strictly Come Dancing might falter. But now, in a jaw-dropping twist, Mabuse has made a triumphant return to the ballroom—though not in the role many expected.

Fans were left stunned when news broke that Oti would not be returning as a judge, as speculation had suggested. Instead, she is stepping back onto the floor in a capacity that has reignited the excitement of longtime supporters and new viewers alike. The announcement, delivered through a series of social media teasers and cryptic interviews, hinted at an unprecedented approach: Mabuse is reclaiming her spotlight on her own terms, bringing a fresh energy to the show that promises to redefine the competition.

The context behind this unexpected return cannot be understated. Her departure from Dancing on Ice had been abrupt and, by some accounts, emotionally taxing. Sources close to the show spoke of creative differences, scheduling conflicts, and an environment that no longer aligned with Mabuse’s career ambitions. Fans mourned her absence, flooding social media with pleas and hashtags demanding her return. It was clear that her talent and presence were not merely appreciated—they were essential to the identity of the show.

Mabuse’s comeback, however, is not merely a return to the stage—it is a statement. By choosing not to step into a judging role, she sidesteps the pitfalls of critique and controversy, instead focusing on performance, mentorship, and the artistry that first captured audiences’ hearts. The move demonstrates a savvy understanding of her brand: Oti is a performer, not a critic; a creator, not a commentator. This strategic positioning allows her to reclaim the narrative, turning what could have been seen as a setback into a massive career resurgence.

The public reaction has been electric. Within hours of the announcement, social media exploded with excitement, speculation, and admiration. Fans flooded her platforms with messages of support, expressing relief that Mabuse’s talents will once again be visible to millions. Headlines across entertainment outlets framed the return as a “career saver,” highlighting how the move reinvigorates her professional trajectory while signaling that her presence in the entertainment world remains both relevant and highly influential.

Behind the scenes, insiders describe Mabuse as being in top form. She has spent months refining routines, collaborating with choreographers, and exploring new styles that will showcase her versatility and technical brilliance. Observers note that she is determined to make this return not just a comeback, but a defining moment—a performance that reasserts her dominance in the dance world while expanding her artistic range. Her dedication is evident in her grueling training schedule, the hours spent perfecting intricate footwork, lifts, and theatrical flourishes that will undoubtedly leave audiences awestruck.

The twist of her not returning as a judge adds another layer of intrigue. Television insiders suggest that this choice allows for a more flexible, dynamic presence on the show, one that blurs the traditional lines between mentor, performer, and occasional commentator. By remaining on the floor, Mabuse is free to engage with contestants directly, to create emotionally charged routines, and to inject her unique flair into every episode without being constrained by the formal expectations of a judging panel. It’s a clever recalibration of power and presence, ensuring that her influence is felt in every facet of the production.

Critics and commentators have been quick to highlight the brilliance of this strategy. Many suggest that returning to a visible, performance-centered role enables Mabuse to maintain her public appeal, connect with audiences on a personal level, and avoid the pitfalls that often accompany judging roles—controversy, negative feedback, and the sometimes stifling burden of authority. Instead, she positions herself as a beacon of inspiration, an anchor for contestants, and a central figure in the storytelling of the show.

The move has also reignited discussion about her career trajectory and versatility. Mabuse has long been celebrated for her adaptability, seamlessly transitioning from competitive ballroom stages to prime-time television. Her ability to navigate diverse environments—reality TV competitions, live performances, teaching, and choreography—demonstrates a rare combination of technical skill, charisma, and strategic acumen. This return to the Strictly ballroom reaffirms her status as one of the most talented and resilient figures in contemporary dance entertainment.

Fans have already speculated about what Mabuse’s return means for the dynamics of the show. Will she mentor contestants directly? Will she take on surprise performances that disrupt expectations? How will her presence influence judging decisions and contestant strategies? The air of mystery surrounding her role only heightens anticipation, ensuring that viewership will likely spike as audiences tune in to witness not just the competition, but the spectacle of Mabuse herself.

Even beyond the confines of television, the move is shaping Mabuse’s broader public persona. Interviews reveal her as energized, reflective, and determined to seize control of her narrative. She speaks candidly about her past challenges, the lessons learned from previous roles, and the excitement of reclaiming the floor in a way that feels authentic and empowering. It’s a nuanced blend of confidence and humility, demonstrating a performer who understands her value, her appeal, and the unique power she wields when she chooses her own stage.

Industry experts note that this type of strategic pivot is rare in the world of celebrity television. Many performers struggle to recover from abrupt exits or high-profile setbacks, but Mabuse’s return illustrates a masterclass in professional resilience. She transforms a potential career disruption into a rejuvenated trajectory, reinforcing her relevance, showcasing her artistry, and delighting audiences who have long admired her talent.

At the heart of this story is more than just entertainment—it is a tale of resilience, strategy, and the pursuit of passion. Mabuse’s journey demonstrates how setbacks can become opportunities, how visibility can be leveraged to amplify artistic impact, and how a performer can reclaim control over their narrative in a high-stakes, public arena. It is a testament to her vision, her dedication, and her unwavering commitment to excellence.

As the premiere approaches, anticipation reaches fever pitch. Teasers hint at stunning choreography, emotionally charged performances, and moments that promise to captivate audiences. Mabuse’s return is not just a career move—it is a spectacle, a reinvigoration of a beloved franchise, and a reminder that true talent cannot be sidelined for long.

Oti Mabuse’s comeback is a masterclass in turning adversity into opportunity. By stepping back into the ballroom not as a judge, but as a force of performance and inspiration, she reclaims her narrative, delights fans, and solidifies her place as one of the most compelling figures in entertainment today. The excitement, the speculation, and the thrill of anticipation all underscore one undeniable fact: Mabuse is back, stronger, bolder, and more dazzling than ever, ready to take the ballroom—and the world—by storm.

Her story is far from over. If anything, this chapter signals the beginning of an even more exhilarating era, one where her talent, vision, and resilience will continue to captivate, inspire, and shock audiences worldwide. In a career defined by grace under pressure, innovation, and sheer brilliance, Oti Mabuse has once again proven that the stage is her kingdom—and she reigns supreme.