The 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing is set to dazzle audiences once again, with a stellar lineup of celebrities ready to showcase their dancing skills. The popular BBC show, which will air on BBC One and iPlayer this September, has already announced several high-profile contestants, each bringing their unique flair to the competition.
Hosted by Emma WillisJohannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe the show will feature the same esteemed judging panel: Craig Revel HorwoodMotsi MabuseAnton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas. The professional dancer lineup has also seen some changes, with new faces joining the fray.
Celebrity Contestants: A Diverse Lineup
The 2026 series promises a mix of talent and charisma, with contestants from various backgrounds. Here’s a closer look at the confirmed celebrities who will be taking to the dance floor:
Jaime Winstone: Entering Her Showgirl Era
Jaime Winstone the acclaimed actress known for her roles in Made in DagenhamTomb Raider and her portrayal of Barbara Windsor in the BBC biopic Babs is the eighth celebrity contestant announced for the show. Winstone, who has a background in dance, expressed her excitement about joining the cast, stating, “I am so excited to announce that I will be joining the Strictly Come Dancing cast this year. I am no stranger to a dance floor, but the ballroom is a whole new world for me. I love a challenge though, so can’t wait to enter my showgirl era and get super sparkly!! Let’s get physical – see you on the dance floor!”
Dame Sarah Storey: From Paralympic Glory to the Dance Floor
Dame Sarah Storey a Paralympic legend with 19 gold medals to her name, is swapping the podium for the dance floor. The most successful British Paralympian ever, Storey is eager to take on this new challenge. She shared, “Embarking on a new challenge so soon after stepping down as an athlete is hugely exciting. I have always loved watching Strictly and my daughter Louisa is a very talented dancer, so to be able to learn from the best and hopefully understand even more about her world, is incredibly motivating! I can’t wait to get started!”
Will Best: Bringing Charisma and Energy
Will Best the charismatic host of Big Brother and Hits Radio’s Breakfast Show is set to be a fan favorite. Best, known for his minimal clothing and engaging personality, expressed his excitement and nervousness about joining the show. “I can’t quite believe it… I’m doing Strictly! What an absolute dream. Albeit a pretty terrifying one. I’ve been lucky to do lots of live telly before, but absolutely nothing like this. And I cannot wait!” he said. Best added that he has no idea if he can actually dance but is ready to embrace the sequins, quicksteps, and the dance floor.
Cach Mercer: Love Island Winner Takes on Strictly
Cach Mercer the winner of Love Island 2026 is bringing his dancing background and TikTok fame to the show. With over 50 million views on his TikTok videos, Mercer is sure to be a standout contestant. “I have grown up watching the show with my family and am so excited to now be part of the cast. Dancing is a huge passion of mine and I can’t wait to learn Ballroom and do the Foxtrot for the first time!” he shared.
Chris Appleton: From Salon to Dance Floor
Chris Appleton the world-renowned hair stylist known for his work with celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian, is the first male contestant announced for the 2026 series. The 43-year-old stylist expressed his thrill about joining the show, stating, “I’m thrilled to be joining Strictly Come Dancing and coming home to the UK for this incredible experience. I may know my way around a salon floor, but the dance floor is a whole different story – and I can’t wait to get started.”
Lacey Turner: EastEnders Star Steps into the Spotlight
Lacey Turner best known for her role as Stacey Slater in EastEnders is the first contestant announced for the 2026 series. Turner, who has won numerous accolades for her acting, is excited to take on the challenge of dancing. “I am so excited to being making my way to the dance floor this year to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing! I am a huge fan and can’t quite believe I will be taking part and not watching at home this year! I look forward to meeting everyone and learning a new skill!” she shared.
Dani Dyer: A Second Chance at Strictly
Dani Dyer the former Love Island contestant and daughter of actor Danny Dyer is giving Strictly another go after withdrawing from the 2026 series due to an ankle fracture. Dyer expressed her excitement about returning to the ballroom, stating, “I am so excited to be back in the ballroom this September! I just cannot wait to get my dancing shoes back on and hopefully this time around I can actually make it to week one! I’m just over the moon and cannot wait to find out who else is doing it!”
Delta Goodrem: Australian Star Joins the Cast
Delta Goodrem the Australian singer and actress who represented Australia at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest is bringing her charm to the Strictly dance floor. Goodrem, who previously starred on Neighbours and judged The Voice Australia shared her excitement about joining the show. “I’ve been incredibly honoured to perform on many different stages throughout my career – from TV, theatre, film sets, to touring my own shows around the world, there is however one stage I’ve never stepped onto and that is the ballroom floor! I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can’t wait to get started!” she said.
The 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing promises to be an exciting and star-studded event, with a diverse lineup of celebrities ready to take on the dance floor. As more contestants are announced, fans can look forward to an unforgettable season of dance, drama, and dazzling performances.
