World-renowned hairstylist Chris Appleton is set to swap the salon for the dance floor as the fourth official Strictly Come Dancing 2026 contestant. The creative maestro behind bold looks for celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Sofía Vergara, Ariana Grande, and Katy Perry is bringing his star power to the hit BBC reality series.
The British-born 'Hair Star' turned US citizen, aged 43, expressed his excitement: 'I'm thrilled to be joining Strictly Come Dancing and coming home to the UK for this incredible experience. I've always believed that the best things happen when you take a chance and try something new. 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.'
He will be joined by EastEnders icon Lacey Turner, returning star Dani Dyer, and Australian Eurovision singer Delta Goodrem. More names are set to be announced across the summer ahead of the show's return this autumn.
The series enters a new era with Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis, and pro-dancer Johannes Radebe taking over from Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly. All four judges will return, but the pro-dancer lineup has seen a major overhaul, with five dancers axed and new ones to be announced soon.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One this autumn.
