Strictly fans complain '2020 has won' as Bruno Tonioli is missing from the show

Strictly Come Dancing fans are in for a treat this evening with the show's return.

Fans breathed a sigh of relief earlier this year when the BBC announced the show would be going ahead despite the Covid disruption.

But the pandemic does mean that one of the show's biggest stars will be missing for the majority of the show - and only able to appear via video calls.

Judge Bruno Tonioli, best known for his outlandish gesturing, passionate dance reviews and glittery get-ups, can't make it back across the pond after Covid threw a spanner in his travel plans.

The star also works as a judge on the US version of Strictly, Dancing with the Stars.

Bruno's absence was noted (BBC/PA)

And fans were gutted not to see him return tonight.

"So Bruno can't be on the launch show for #StrictlyComeDancing That's it, this is my limit, 2020 has beat me," one lamented.

Another complained: "Going to really miss Bruno."

Shirley's get-up earned cheers as she stepped out (BBC)

Motsi looked sensational (BBC)

A third shared a crying emoji and wrote: "No Bruno."

"No bruno?! NO BRUNO?! #StrictlyComeDancing," a fourth tweeted.

But fans need not fret, as Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel-Horwood are all back on - socially-distanced - judging duties.

The full line-up for the 2020 series is the most star-studded yet.

Three of the judges are back (BBC)

Nicola's making Strictly history (BBC)

The Wanted's Max George, actress Caroline Quentin and GMB's Ranvir Singh are among the big names that will be putting on their dancing shoes.

Jamie Laing's there too, having sat out last year's show due to injury.

Kelvin Fletcher stepped in at the last minute to take Jamie's place, and went on to lift the Glitterball Trophy - and will even be making an appearance this evening.

And Olympic champ boxer Nicola Adams is set to make history as she takes to the floor in the show's first same-sex partnership.