As the countdown to Strictly Come Dancing season begins, the BBC has started unveiling the 2026 cast. Last year, Lioness Karen Carney and professional partner Carlos Gu claimed the trophy, and this year's contestants hope to follow suit. The new cast joins at a pivotal time, with major changes ahead for the flagship show.
New Hosts and Pro Dancers
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have departed, replaced by three new hosts: broadcaster Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and pro dancer Johannes Radebe. The pro dancer lineup also sees significant changes, with Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Gorka Márquez leaving, while Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will be benched without partners.
Confirmed Celebrities for 2026
Lacey Turner
The EastEnders star, who has played Stacey Slater for over 20 years, is taking a break from Albert Square to join the dance floor. The 38-year-old soap actress expressed her excitement: 'I am so excited to be 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!'
Dani Dyer
After a brief stint last year cut short by an ankle fracture, the reality TV star returns. Dani was originally partnered with Nikita Kuzmin, who later reached the final with Amber Davies. The 29-year-old said: '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!'
Rumoured Celebrities
Josie Gibson
The Big Brother winner and This Morning presenter, 41, has been on the BBC's radar for a while. A source told The Sun: 'They’re hoping this year is the year, and talks are progressing well. Bosses are convinced her down-to-earth charm will be the boost this year’s new-look show needs.'
Delta Goodrem
The Australian singer-songwriter, 41, is reportedly close to signing. A source told the Daily Mail: 'They’ve been trying to get her for years. Obviously, she is a good name for the show.' With nine million records sold and a recent Eurovision appearance, Delta could add a Strictly win to her accolades.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to the BBC in September.
