Finally getting her second chance! Rachel Stevens takes on Tom Chambers in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special... four years after he beat her in the final
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Four years ago Rachel Stevens admitted that she was devastated after coming second to Tom Chambers in the Strictly Come Dancing final.
But now the former pop star has her chance to steal his crown, as both former contestants are to take part in this year's Christmas special.
Screened on Christmas Day, the one-off show will see newbies such as JLS star JB Gill, Sheila Hancock and footballer Fabrice Muamba take on returning contestants including Chelsee Healey, Natasha Kaplinsky and Chris Hollins.
Back to win the trophy: Rachel Stevens, who came runner-up in 2008, appears on the Strictly Christmas special with rival Tom Chambers
Runner-up Rachel admitted that she was a 'blubbering wreck' after actor Tom pipped her to the post in 2008, trying to fight off tears in front of 13million viewers.
Speaking to The Sun after the final, she said: 'Everything was too much. I bawled - I was a blubbering wreck.'
But it seems that, four years later, the former S Club 7 star has composed herself enough to return to the dancefloor and try her hand at winning the trophy.
The fight is on: Tom will be up against Rachel again, after he pipped her to the post four years ago
Last year's runner-up: Chelsee Healey will also be vying for first place in the special, to be aired on Christmas Day
Partnered again with Vincent Simone, the 34-year-old filmed the special festive edition of the show on Sunday, looking just as svelte as she did when she was on it the first time.
The singer took to the floor with her partner in a figure-hugging black and white dress, seeming just as confident as she was four years ago.
But Rachel could have competition from last year's runner-up, Chelsee, who also seems set on winning the festive trophy.
Taking to the floor: The line-up of new stars for this year includes Katy Brand, Fabrice Muamba and JB Gill
Newbies: Helen Skelton and Sheila Hancock both take to the dancefloor for the first time
Back on form: Footballer Muamba, who collapsed last year during a match, seems to have found a new niche on the dancefloor
Impressed: The judges seem in great spirits as they rave about the dances
New stars including footballer Muamba will also be looking to impress judges Craig Revel-Horwood, Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman and Darcey Bussell.
The Zaire-born player collapsed during a match last year due to a heart problem, and has since given up football.
Former winner: Chris Hollins, who proved a hit with the public, is back to win their hearts again
Having a laugh: Former contestants including Ann Widdecombe and Russell Grant return for a routine
He's got the moves: JLS star JB shows off his gymnastic skills, Louis Smith-style
He recently said during an interview on ITV: 'I'd do Strictly Come Dancing. I love my salsa, so I'd be well up for that.'
Even strictest judge Craig got into spirit of things, dressing up in a Rudolph costume for the show, while Rod Stewart took to the stage to perform.
As this year's contestants also had their chance to shine, past favourites including Ann Widdecombe and Russell Grant made an appearance on the dancefloor.
Getting festive: Tess Daly and Bruce Forsyth return for the one-off, while judge Craig Revel-Horwood dresses up as Rudolph
Getting into the spirit: Katy Brand wears a floating chiffon dress while partner Anton du Beke goes all out in a Christmas jumper
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2249586/Rachel-Stevens-takes-Tom-Chambers-Strictly-Come-Dancing-Christmas-special--years-beat-final.html#ixzz2FOcoUBQH
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