Glitzy Strictly is still ratings gold

STRICTLY proved it’s still a ratings cha-cha-champion by drawing a giant telly audience.

Friday’s opening show was watched by an average audience of 7.2 million, peaking at 7.6 million.

It thumped everything else in its viewing slot with Gogglebox only managing 2.7 million viewers.

Last night’s episode – featuring a further nine celebrities – was expected to have drawn an even bigger audience.

Former politician Ed Balls, 49, fashion model Daisy Lowe, 27, and chart singer Will Young, 37, all danced last night.

Labour bigwig Mr Balls was inspired to take part in the hit show by former contestant Jeremy Vine, 51.