BBC Strictly Come Dancing’s eye-watering cash prize for winner exposed

‘s will conclude today, with one triumphant contestant set to claim the much-coveted Glitterball Trophy after 12 weeks of dazzling performances.

Presenters and will lead the grand finale as the competitors deliver three spectacular routines in their bid to be crowned this year’s Strictly Champion.

Taking place tonight (December 14), the final four will battle it out during the spectacular two-and-a-half-hour extravaganza.

Although the judges have guided the competition so far, the final decision rests solely with the public.

The final showdown will see and Lauren Oakley, and Dianne Buswell, and Aljaz Skorjanec, and and perform a show dance, a judges’ pick and a personal pick.

So, what does the winner stand to gain from their efforts?

All contestants receive generous financial compensation for their participation, as well as a significant boost to their public profiles.

Although the ultimate reward is the prestige of hoisting the Glitterball Trophy, it seems this glory is fleeting, as the stars don’t get to retain the gleaming trophy and instead take home a small replica.

operates differently from other reality shows when it comes to payment, offering a flat fee with no room for negotiation.

This is in contrast to , which to Reform leader in 2023. Each Strictly participant is said to receive £25,000 just to appear.

Although the figure has not been officially confirmed, the show reportedly incentivises celebrities to stay on the show with a fee increase to a substantial £40,000 if they remain until the end of October.

In past seasons, contestants were given £60,000 for reaching the quarter-finals and an additional £15,000 for reaching the semi-finals, totalling £75,000.

The winner is reported to receive £100,000 and beyond the series itself, the tour also provides a lucrative opportunity for any celebrity participating in the show.

According to , the dancers are paid a flat fee of £50,000 per series.