The infamous curse has blighted even the strongest of marriages and relationships with countless celebs falling for the charms of their professional dance partner or finding a new lease of single life during the show

As this year’s Strictly Come Dancing celebrities take their first tentative steps on the dancefloor with their brand new partners, the show’s infamous curse will no doubt be on the minds of some.

Marriages have ended and loving couples torn apart by the chemistry formed through the ruthless combination of hours in training and raunchy dance moves.

Over the last 17 series, even the hardiest relationships have fallen to the curse with victims unable to resist taking their partnerships beyond the realms of ballroom.

The infamous hex has arguably become as prominent a feature on the family show as sequins and the Cha Cha Cha, much to the alleged annoyance of producers.

Long-serving judge Craig Revel Horwood has predicted the curse could strike like never before in 2020 as the contestants form close ‘bubbles’ with the professionals in keeping with coronavirus restrictions.

So as series 18 kicks off, we take a look at all of the fiery flings and bitter break-ups that have played out on the Strictly dancefloor.