AJ Pritchard explains THAT near-accident with Lauren Steadman during Strictly Come Dancing launch

The launch of this year's Strictly Come Dancing didn't disappoint.

From the incredible embellished gowns, to Nile Rogers and Chic getting everyone on their feet for the new series, many have branded it the 'best opening ever'.

But one moment that nearly stole the show - and not in a good way - was when AJ Pritchard almost dropped his dancing partner Lauren Steadman.

As their partnership was announced by hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, the professional dancer attempted to lift up the Paralympian in celebration.

He accidentally lost his grip and almost dropped her, causing Kevin Clifton to step in to save her from falling before AJ managed to catch her just in time.

AJ took to Strictly Come Dancing's official Instagram to explain what had happened, telling the camera, "It was a controlled lowering, she went for it and then I realised she was really going for it and I’ll save her before she hits the floor.”

She added, "I'm in safe hands," before he joked that it was "spontaneous".

Luckily Lauren didn't take it too seriously and took to Twitter to share her excitement at the partnership.

"Over the moon that I'm partnered with @Aj11Ace such an amazing guy! We'll perfect our signature move".

The other contestants partnerships were also revealed during the opening night, including Susannah Constantine and Anton Du Beke, Joe Sugg and Dianne Buswell, Lee Ryan and Nadiya Bychkova, and Faye Tozer and Giovanni Pernice.

Katie Piper was partnered up with Gorka Marquez, while Ashley Roberts found herself dancing with last year's winner Pasha Kovalev.

The former Pussycat Doll came under fire recently for having an advantage over the other contestants due to her dance background.

GALLERY: Strictly Come Dancing's best ever moments

She defended herself, joking, "There’s a bit of pressure but the little booty smacks and booty popping I don’t think are allowed in the Latin / Ballroom world.

"It is still a new skill that I do not know, that I am going to have to learn, that I really passionately want to learn and get in there and hopefully do alright."

We can't WAIT to see more!

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