Chris Appleton is the fourth celebrity contestant confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2026

Strictly Come Dancing 2026 is coming! The eagerly anticipated new series is getting ready to once again light up Saturday and Sunday nights this autumn on BBC One and BBC iPlayer as multi-awarding hair Stylist Chris Appleton joins the celebrity cast of 2026.

The news was officially revealed on Friday 19 June, on @bbcstrictly’s official social channels via Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube.

Chris Appleton is a world-renowned conceptual hair stylist known for his impeccable attention to detail and creative vision. Named a Hair Star by Vogue UK, Chris is highly sought after by some of the biggest names in music, entertainment, fashion, and advertising.

His work has been showcased on covers and in major features for publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, Grazia, L’Officiel Paris, and more. His celebrity clients include Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Sofía Vergara, Ariana Grande, and Katy Perry. He recently made the New York Times Best Sellers list for his debut memoir Your Roots Don’t Define You.

• Strictly Come Dancing 2026 celebrity contestants confirmed
• Add Strictly Come Dancing to your Watchlist on BBC iPlayer

Chris Appleton says: “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.”

Further news about Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be revealed throughout the summer ahead of the brand-new series getting underway on BBC One and iPlayer this September. Viewers can add the show to their watchlist on BBC iPlayer now.

For all the latest breaking news from the ballroom check out our Strictly Come Dancing 2026 Everything You Need to Know guide.

Strictly Come Dancing is a BBC Studios Entertainment production for BBC One and iPlayer.

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