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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Jacob Stolworthy

Strictly 2026: Confirmed celebrity line-up plus cast rumours

  • The BBC has commenced announcing the celebrity line-up for Strictly Come Dancing 2026, with Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe confirmed as new presenters.
  • EastEnders actor Lacey Turner was the first contestant revealed, alongside TV personality Dani Dyer, who is returning after an injury forced her withdrawal from last year's series.
  • Australian singer and former Neighbours star Delta Goodrem, celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey and TV presenter Will Best have also been confirmed to join the show.
  • Love Island's Cach Mercer is set to compete, which appears to break the BBC's reported rule against casting reality television personalities.
  • Former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, ex-referee Mark Clattenburg, and reality TV personality Jake Quickenden are among the rumoured participants.

IN FULL

Strictly Come Dancing lineup: The confirmed 2026 celebrity cast – plus one big rumour

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