Strictly Come Dancing 2026 contestants reveal why they're heading for the ballroom, their dream songs to dance to and what they're most nervous about

It’s time to start dancing - Strictly’s back. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe take the helm, as a brand-new year in the ballroom begins.

The show opens in spectacular style, with an incredible performance from the entire Strictly cast. Fifteen celebrities nervously wait to find out their professional partners and this year - there’s a twist.

Five new Pros make their entrance on the dancefloor and reigning champion, Karen Carney returns for an epic performance. Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke return to the judging panel to keep a watchful eye over proceedings before the competition officially kicks off next Saturday.

• Strictly Come Dancing 2026 - Everything You Need To Know
• Add Strictly Come Dancing to your Watchlist on BBC iPlayer

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC iPlayer and BBC One on Saturday 19 September from 7.25pm

LW

Meet Strictly's 2026 Celebrity Contestants

Dame Sarah Storey

What made you say yes to Strictly?

It is a show I have wanted to do for a long time but every other year I have been competing in the autumn and so couldn’t ever say yes. Now I have stepped down from competition it was the perfect time, so when the Strictly team contacted me I didn’t hesitate to say yes please! 

How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026? 

A combination of nervous and excited! I am looking forward to working with the professionals and getting to know a whole new world that these incredible people have excelled in. 

What are you most looking forward to? 

I am looking forward to learning from the professionals and getting to know a completely new group of people. I am also looking forward to getting into my glittery and fake tan era! 

What are you most nervous about? 

The whole thing! I think nerves are always a sign you care and are invested in giving your best. This is a different type of experience and competition to being an athlete though, because the preparation is completely led by others and as an athlete we are used to knowing our events inside out and having more understanding of what good looks like. It’s completely out of my comfort zone to be on national tv doing a competition I know nothing about! But that’s one of the reasons I am so excited too! 

If you could perform any iconic Strictly routine from past series, which would it be? 

Gosh, I am spoilt for choice, but I was in the Ballroom for Karen and Carlos’s Paso Doble last year and that was truly incredible, so getting to do a Paso Doble would be amazing. 

How did your family and friends react when you told them? 

When the announcement happened I was working backstage at the English Youth Ballet’s production of Swan Lake, which my daughter was performing in. I got a knock on the door of the dressing room I was looking after and when I opened it the company and crew were jumping up and down with excitement!

My daughter said “Finally!” and my son said “that’s a good plan!”, while my Dad offered to teach me to dance  - which is hilarious as no one has ever seen him even do a dad dance! My husband knew all along, so he was in on the secret. I’ve had so many messages of good luck too, it’s been a fabulous reaction. 

Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?

Not specifically but as my daughter is a very talented dancer and ballerina I know I’ll be getting the most honest and brutal feedback!  

What are you hoping to get out of the experience? 

Have fun, learn something new and find out more about the world of dance and the people I’ll have the privilege to work with. I think it’s good to challenge yourself, and there’s no better place to do that than live on national TV! 

What would be your dream song to dance to? 

The one that gets me the highest score! Perhaps something by Kylie or Take That! 

Do you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?

I have no experience of being backstage before my own performance but based on pre race routines, I will be playing back the step sequence in my head I think. Pre race I would be concentrating on the shape of a course, so I suspect I will be focusing on the shape of the dance. 

How would your family and friends describe your dancing skills? 

Limited! 

What do you think will be more nerve wracking - competing for a gold medal or dancing live on TV? 

Probably the dancing, because every time I have competed for gold I have had years of prep behind me! 

Are there any transferable skills between competing at the Paralympics and taking part in Strictly?

I should imagine the psychological skills to focus on the controllable parts of the process and attempt to remain calm will be transferable, as well as the work ethic and pain threshold. Dancing is physically demanding too, so I hope my physical fitness will transfer as well 

Jaime Winstone

How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026?

I feel so excited! I feel like this is such a good time for me to do this. It’s such a great opportunity to show a little bit more of who I am, but also show how much I love performing, dressing up, collaborating with people, and being part of a team. Obviously, I'm a bit nervous which I think is normal, and I'm aware that it's going to be a lot of hard work, but I'm certainly up for the challenge!

What made you say yes to Strictly?

It just felt right! I have been asked before and I've always been working and busy or just being full-on mum, but I turned 40 last year and I've really got to just lean into this moment. A lot of people in my life know how much I love dancing – music and dance is such a big part of who I am. There were some clear signs that this should be my Strictly year - one of them being Madonna's new album and its track with the lyrics ‘everybody get up and dance’. I took that as a personal sign as I'm such a huge Madonna fan – there's not a room in my house without a disco ball!

Another very clear sign came when I went to my friend Poppy Delevingne’s birthday party a few months back, and Taylor Swift was there! I was just dancing as I do, and she came up to me out of nowhere and just said, ‘Oh my lord, how do you dance so freely?’. When someone of her calibre and status says that, it’s a very clear sign!

I've done every sort of gritty drama you possibly could do, and I usually play people quite a lot older than me, and I just thought: this is the time to step into a realm that I don't know, which is the ballroom, and give it a real good go. If you're going to do one, this is the most joyous, sparkly, and challenging one to do. Oh and another big reason is my Nan! My Nan is going to lose her marbles over this!  

What are you most looking forward to, and what are you most nervous about?

I am most looking forward to getting to know the new dances, testing my muscle memory, and understanding the characters and the essence behind the dance. I'm an actor, and I always go off music when I'm building a character, so this feels in my domain somewhat. Also, connecting with my dance partner, and obviously seeing how I perform live for the first time. I've done plays and I remember lines, but remembering footwork… I keep trying to say to myself, ‘dancing is acting’ – you remember where to stand, you remember where to go, you remember when to say your lines at the right time.

I guess one thing I'm not looking forward to with my poor partner is that I can be a little bit of a daydreamer, and I do tend to add my own essence to things. Hopefully I won't go too freestyle! As an actor, you often feel like you have to be in control of your performance all the time, so I'm nervous about allowing that trust to take over. Obviously I'm also very nervous about falling, but I'm still going to jump in the deep end and ask to be thrown around and do lifts if I can!

Do you have a signature dance move?

I do a lot of stuff with my hands. I am quite up into the voguing scene. I've always said the three things that describe me are; I'm a mother, I'm an actor, and I'm a raver. I'm not a controlled dancer, I've never done a dance lesson in my life and I've never done a routine, so I'm quite excited to see how I get on with that.

How did your family and friends react when you told them, and did they give you any advice?

My mum screamed! She absolutely loves it. My dad was kind of like, ‘oh my lord’ [laughs], but everybody's very, very excited, my mother-in-law the most out of them all as she’s such a huge fan. I think everybody responded like “you're going to win it!” – the blind confidence of your family and friends is always just so humbling and so beautiful. The women in my family were definitely more responsive than the men! [laughs].

What are you hoping to get out of the experience?

I really want to gain the knowledge of traditional dance. Music is such a huge part of our cultures, and we're so lucky enough to be brought up in a world where music is just everywhere in all its different styles. I would love to incorporate this experience into my world and hopefully go and do something professionally in dance or musical theatre or film.

I hope I take some amazing dance moves with me that I've never had the opportunity to learn, and I hope I make a lot of friends! Since I was a little girl and I watched Strictly Ballroom, I fantasised about being a dancer and wearing the clothes and dipping my toe into this world where it's just so glittery and tanned and camp!

What would be your dream song to dance to?

I’d love a tango to ‘Girl, You'll Be a Woman Soon’ by Neil Diamond. In movie week, Grease or Pretty Woman would be iconic! Also, doing some sort of Kate Bush inspired dance to ‘Running Up That Hill’ would be amazing. I'd love to do something Madonna inspired; she's such a queen, and I've always seen myself matching that energy of ‘Material Girl’ – that would just be epic!

Have you met any of your fellow Strictly 2026 contestants before?

I know Dani Dyer, and she is such a mega babe – she’s so sweet and so easy to get along with. I've worked with her dad, and our dads have worked together, and our kids have bonded, so I feel like I'm in really good company. Also Lacey Turner, who I worked with on a Dominic Savage film, and I obviously did a couple of episodes of EastEnders where I played Peggy Mitchell. There seems to be a really good girl gang taking part. I’m excited to meet new friends!


Do you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?

I lead quite a chaotic lifestyle in terms of schedule, so I do a lot of meditation and breathing. You just need to have that calm time. Also, I surround myself with fabulousness. At home my husband doesn't let me decorate the place like a complete boudoir, so wherever I go I tend to take a suitcase full of feather boas and glittery stuff!

You’re no stranger to the big screen - which one of your film credits do you think would be the best to translate into a dance for Movie Week?

Probably ‘Made In Dagenham’, because you could do a 60s-inspired dance. It’s about a big protest and female empowerment; the music in the 60s was so cool, and you could do a lot with the look. And because I did ‘Babs’, Barbara Windsor’s biopic, how good would it be to do a ‘Carry on Camping’ dance? Or maybe a ‘Love Rosie’ waltz? That would also be cute.

Shaun Wright-Phillips

How do you feel about joining Strictly 2026?

It’s something that’s definitely out of my comfort zone, but overall I’m really looking forward to it!

What made you say yes to Strictly?

I wanted to challenge myself and learn something new. 

What are you most looking forward to?

Stepping into a new arena and learning new skills. I’m also really excited to meeting some amazing people along the way.

What are you most nervous about?

I don’t get overly nervous in general, but this is obviously something that’s really new to me. I’m not saying I won’t be nervous at all, but I’m here to do the best I can and I have people who are rooting for me, so what will be will be! Right now I feel pretty relaxed - but ask me the same question 10 minutes before the first live show and I might have a different answer! [laughs]  

How did your family and friends react when you told them?

Everyone was crazy excited, I’ve received a really nice amount of support so far. And then all of a sudden my inbox was filled with friends and family trying to get their live show ticket orders in!

Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?

I know my mum is over the moon that I'm doing it. I guess it will be nice for my kids to see their dad moving some shapes on TV too!

What are you hoping to get out of the experience?

To meet some amazing people and have as much fun as possible learning and dancing.

Have you had any advice from any former contestants?

Yes - from last year’s winner Kaz (Karen Carney), in fact. She said to just dive straight into it and don't hold back, so I’ll take that advice. I’m going to go for it and do the best I can.

Will you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?

I never really had any rituals throughout my football career, as I like to not overthink things and just go with the flow - but let’s see how I feel when I get to the studios.

How would your family/friends describe your dancing skills?

I dread to ask them - but I’m sure they’ll be giving me as much feedback as the Strictly judges! They’re used to seeing me dance at parties, but this will be the first time they’ve seen me dance while sober! 

Melanie Walters

How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026?

The best mix of excited and nervous. I can’t wait to find out who I’ll be dancing with, and to then finally get going and start learning some routines!

What made you say yes to Strictly?

It was a little bit of “now or never” really. I’m not getting any younger! It just felt like the right time to dive into something like Strictly, which is something completely outside my normal life and my comfort zone.

I’ve no formal dance training to speak of, my involvement in musicals and pantos have been as a character actress not a dancer, but I have always loved to dance. We’re talking disco, not clubbing! This is such an opportunity to push my boundaries and learn some beautiful routines and show them on live television!

What are you most looking forward to and what are you most nervous about?

I’m most looking forward to meeting my dance partner and I hope we have a really good connection and a really happy time together. I cannot wait to learn all the techniques that come with Ballroom. I have very little experience in that style of dance so it will be a great challenge. Of course, I am also excited to see what fabulous outfits I am going to be wearing! I’m nervous about my head saying “yes I can do that move”, but my body disagreeing!

Do you have a signature dance move?

Not a clue how you would describe it... I think it might be called “freestyle”.

If you could perform any iconic Strictly routine from past series, which would it be?

There’ve been too many brilliant routines to choose one, but in general as a viewer I love a waltz, a quickstep and a tango! Those are the ones I’m especially hoping to do on the show.

How did your family and friends react when you told them?

My friends were just absolutely delighted. My family and I are so close and they are always so supportive of whatever I do - even though they don’t understand why I do it!

Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?

I’m primarily doing Strictly for myself and everybody who is over 60. For all us women in particular who are in their 60s, who have a chance to seize an opportunity but shy away from taking it - fearing they’re too old. We’re always learning and growing at whatever age. There’s no such thing as being ‘past it’, things may become different as we get older but we’re no less valid.

What are you hoping to get out of the experience?

I am truly just doing it to learn a fantastic new skill and hopefully have an absolute blast doing it. Dancing is so freeing and such a good way of expressing yourself. To have this opportunity to learn how to dance properly, from the professionals, on the most brilliant dance floor possible is almost too good to be true. I’m getting a weekly masterclass - unbelievable! I just want to dive into Strictly heels first and give it 100 percent.

What would be your dream song to dance to?

My favourite song is always in the moment. I hear a song and depending on my mood it’s the best song ever and I’ll listen to it about 10 times in a row there and then, and will swan around the living room to it as if I’m on Strictly, and then the next day or week I’ll hear something completely different and the same thing will happen again.

A bit like the weather, it’s constantly changing. I’m excited for all the new favourite songs I hope I’ll get to have on Strictly.

Do you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?

I know I’ll end up having one, but what it will be will depend on what I do that first week. So, I’ll need to make sure it’s not too lengthy or complicated as I will have to do it every week from there on in!

How would your family and friends describe your dancing skills?

I quite honestly can say I don’t think my family have ever seen me dance enough to comment. My friends think I’m quite a good mover though!

One of your most iconic roles over the years is Gwen in Gavin & Stacey, do you think Gwen would be able to flip an omelette while doing the Cha Cha Cha?

I think Gwen could do absolutely anything whilst simultaneously making an omelette. If Gwen was a contestant on Strictly, I think it’s safe to say all the contestants, crew, hosts, and judges would be well fed.

She would be given extra training by Nessa (who taught Shirley Ballas all she knows) and Bryn would take over her wardrobe, in his element choosing the sequinned dresses for her. After making Nessa’s wedding outfit, she would probably make a few of her own...

Chris Appleton

How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026?

It’s an incredible opportunity, and I’m genuinely honoured to be part of the 2026 class alongside some incredible celebrities and dancers who I can’t wait to meet! I’ve always believed in pushing yourself and embracing new challenges, so this felt like the perfect chance to do exactly that.

I’m especially excited to join the Strictly family this year in particular, and to meet Emma, Johannes and Josh as they host the show for the first time.

What made you say yes to Strictly?

I’ve loved watching Strictly for as long as I can remember, so when the opportunity came along, it felt like one I couldn’t pass up. I’ve always believed in saying yes to new challenges, especially the ones that push you outside your comfort zone. That’s something I’ve always done throughout my career, however dancing is something completely different for me, and that’s exactly what makes it so exciting.

One thing I’m not a stranger to is showbiz glam, so I’m really excited to wear the incredible outfits and try out different looks each week!

What are you most looking forward to?

I really cannot wait to get stuck into the live shows. There’s something really special about performing in front of an audience, especially when it’s on live TV! It’ll definitely be nerve-wracking, but I think that’s what makes it even more exciting. I’m also so excited to meet my dance partner! The dancers on Strictly are always legendary and I can’t wait to see who I’ll be working alongside and learning from.

What are you most nervous about?

I keep having a recurring dream that the show begins, and I’m out there on the dancefloor in front of the studio audience and cameras… and suddenly I forget all my moves. So fingers crossed that doesn’t happen!

Do you have a signature dance move?

Definitely the dad dance. I’m not sure how much I’ll be able to bring that one out, or if it’s something anyone should see…

If you could perform any iconic Strictly routine from past series, which would it be?

Jill Halfpenny and Darren Bennett’s Jive in 2004! It’s known as one of the greatest routines of all time and rightly so. Jill absolutely smashed it with a perfect score of 40, so if I can get anywhere close to that it’d be incredible.

How did your family and friends react when you told them?

They were absolutely thrilled. I think they’re even more excited than I am! Everyone has been so supportive from the moment I told them. Strictly is such an iconic show that so many people have grown up watching, so getting the chance to be part of it is really special. They’ve all been encouraging me every step of the way, and I know they’ll be cheering me on throughout the competition.

Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?

My kids and my mum were definitely the most excited. They’ve always loved Strictly, so when I told them I was doing the show, they couldn’t believe it. Seeing how happy and supportive they were made saying yes feel even more special. I’m so excited to see my family in the audience cheering me on.

What are you hoping to get out of the experience?

I’m hoping to come away having learned a completely new skill and with memories that will stay with me forever. I want to enjoy every moment, challenge myself, embrace the experience and hopefully surprise myself with what I’m capable of.

Have you had any advice from any former contestants?

My friend Chrishell has done Dancing with The Stars in the US. The best piece of advice she gave me was to just have fun and enjoy every bit, because it goes so quickly.

What would be your dream song to dance to?

One Moment in Time by Whitney Houston.

Have you met any of your fellow Strictly 2026 contestants before?

I haven’t, but I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and making new friendships along this journey! It was so exciting seeing the announcements and finding out who I’d be dancing alongside. It’s going to be so fun meeting some of the iconic names from our screens and people I’ve grown up watching too.

Do you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?

Calling my kids will definitely be my number one ritual. They will encourage me and help me to get into the zone and focus on what I’m about to do, as well as just remembering to have fun. I know I’ll be thinking of them when I’m out on the dancefloor.

How would your family/friends describe your dancing skills?

Any friends and family who have danced with me at parties or at home, I’d say would hopefully describe my dancing skills as always having fun! However, my kids might say otherwise.

You have friends who have taken part in Dancing with the Stars in the US. What made you want to take part in Strictly instead?

I have friends who've taken part in Dancing with the Stars in the US, but for me, Strictly felt like the right fit. Being from the UK, there's something really special about taking part in such an iconic British show - it genuinely feels like coming home to my roots.

Having my family here as well makes it even more meaningful, because they're so excited to support me throughout the whole journey. I can’t wait to be in London and head back home to Leicester too.

Graeme Hall

How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026?

More excited than I’ve ever been to get stuck into something. I’m feeling quite apprehensive, but I imagine that’s normal.

What made you say yes to Strictly?

I love dancing. I did a little dancing as a hobby years ago, but had to stop when I had a stroke. I recovered fully after a heart operation, but I haven’t danced for years.

I’m a huge Strictly fan. We always watch in our house and try predicting what the judges (especially Craig) are going to say. I’ll be more anxious than ever to know what he and they think this year!

What are you most looking forward to?

Wearing a tail suit. When does a chap ever get to dress up in a tail suit these days? I love the elegant look. I’m known for my tweed and cravats, but Strictly takes ‘dapper’ to a new level, doesn’t it? Oh, and the sparkles. In for a penny...!

What are you most nervous about?

I’m most nervous of the nerves themselves, messing up a routine on the night and letting my partner down. I’m a bit of a perfectionist. ‘If a job’s worth doing it’s worth doing right’ is something I say a lot and I’ll work hard to get it right but there’s no accounting for stage fright. Strictly is way out of my comfort zone!

Do you have a signature dance move?

I’m confident I can walk down the famous Strictly staircase looking the part. I reckon I’ll be good at that, but as for actual dancing, no signature moves I’m afraid. I was rather good with The Funky Gibbon (by The Goodies) at the school disco in 1975. Does that count...?

If you could perform any iconic Strictly routine from past series, which would it be?

Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz’s quickstep to Sing, Sing, Sing. So fast, so sharp, so elegant. Very Fred Astaire!

And JB Gill’s Viennese Waltz to Let’s Go Fly a Kite 2024. It literally looked like he and Lauren were flying. Lauren’s the favourite female pro in our house! I also loved their Samba to Mas Que Nada. I’ve no idea how I’m going to move my hips and chest like JB, but I’ll give it a go!

How did your family and friends react when you told them?

They were over the moon for me. I was quite taken aback. I heard from old friends I haven’t spoken to for a while too. There was a bit of mickey-taking from my mates, it has to be said. My fellow Yorkshireman, the chef James Martin, laughed his head off when he heard: “You have no idea what you’re letting yourself in for!” he said. James made the semi-final in 2005, which is something he was quick to remind me of. The gauntlet has been thrown down!

In my spare time I race a 1960s MG sports car in a speed hillclimb and sprint championship. I’ve been leading the overall championship from the start of the season in April, but there’s a good chance I might not win ultimately as I’ll miss the last couple of events due to Strictly. Hey ho! The other drivers have been lovely – one saying that if I lose because of Strictly, I’ll be “the best overall champion the championship never had”. I was very touched. Recently, I spun the car 360 degrees in practice, trying too hard. One of my championship colleagues wasted no time in describing it as “a pirouette Shirley Ballas would be proud of”. Very funny...

Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?

My mum. She’s 90 on 6th September this year. We lost my dad a few years ago and she still lives in the bungalow where I was born in Selby, North Yorkshire.

She met my dad, literally on the dance floor, in the late 1950s. They danced jive, as everyone did then, but also waltz and – my mum’s favourite – quickstep. Apparently, they would fly around the dancefloor, quickstepping their way past everyone else. I would love to make her proud.

One of my dad’s sayings was “Do your best. No one can ask any more of you”. Good advice, isn’t it? I’ll 100% be doing my very best on the dancefloor for my mum and in memory of my dad.

What are you hoping to get out of the experience?

Strictly Come Dancing is a life experience that money can’t buy. I think of it this way: This is series 24 and there are 15 celebs. Do the maths: that’s not a lot of people in the whole wide world who have been given this opportunity to learn something so joyous from the best in the business. How lucky am I...?! I’m going to enjoy every single minute of it, work hard and hope it lasts for many weeks.

What would be your dream song to dance to?

It’s so hard to choose one but as an avid Strictly viewer, I know the music choice really makes the performance (There’s also the small matter of dancing, telling the story etc!). I’d love to waltz to a classic such as Moon River, or a cheeky Cha Cha to Rufus Thomas’ Walking the Dog because, sooner or later, I HAVE to dance to a dog song, right...?

How would your family/friends describe your dancing skills?

I think they might say it was erm... surprising. I’ll let everyone else judge whether that’s surprisingly good or otherwise, ha ha!

Watch this space for more from the Strictly Class of 2026...

How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026?

I'm excited to learn something new and to be a part of this whole glittery shenanigan. But I am absolutely terrified and hoping that will go once I'm in the training room and I can get into it. I’m going to create a character that I can play on a Saturday night, as that’s the only way I’ll get out there I think!

What made you say yes to Strictly?

I've always wanted to do it, but I've just never been brave enough. I've had a friend do it every year, so I know how hard it is. A lot of my friends are physically fit, and they have been exhausted. So, whilst I'm not working on EastEnders this year, I thought it might be a good time to do it because I'm not sure I am physically or mentally fit enough to do both jobs at the same time as well as run a household with three feral children! [laughs]

What are you most looking forward to? What are you most nervous about?

I'm actually most looking forward to the training. I think that I will enjoy that bit of it the most, and meeting everybody else. I'm obviously most terrified about the live Saturday nights and sitting in the makeup chair for that long, I’m not very good at that! I'm going to try my best and work on my patience.

Do you have a signature dance move?

All I've done on dance floors for the past 25 years is put my right arm up and point it in the air! [laughs]

If you could perform any iconic Strictly routine from past series, which would it be?

I’ve always gravitated towards something Latin. I’ve got to say I thought Balvinder and Julian’s Paso Doble last year was brilliant.

How did your family and friends react when you told them?

They're so excited, even more excited than me! I think they've always wanted me to do it so they are beside themselves, especially my children.

Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?

It's mainly for myself and my children. I want to show them that you can do anything if you're brave and you work hard.

What are you hoping to get out of the experience?

Just to have a good time. I think it is such a lovely experience that not many people get the opportunity to do. So, I've got to really enjoy it because it is a once in a lifetime thing.

What would be your dream song to dance to?

I'm actually terrible with music. I've normally got the wrong words and I have no idea who sang it. But, my daughter's favourite song is Ordinary by Alex Warren, so she really wants me to do a dance to that. And my son's favourite is a song from Minions, so you never know it might be that for Movie Week!

Have you met any of your fellow Strictly 2026 contestants before?

I've met Dani and Jaime before, which is lovely because we're sort of similar and we're the same-ish ages. So, I’m looking forward to seeing them again and becoming a big family with everyone else.

Do you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?

Oh no. I'm one of those that just wings it and hopes for the best!

How would your family/friends describe your dancing skills?

Not great. I have zero dancing skills, so definitely room for improvement!

The nation has watched you grow up as the legendary Stacey Slater on EastEnders. Is there something you hope they’ll discover about you during your Strictly journey?

I think it would just be nice for people to maybe see me as me. You play the same character for 21 years, and there are obviously bits of me in Stacey, but we are so different. Hopefully on Strictly people will be able to separate me from the character and learn more about me.

Will Best

How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026?

It's a dream come true! My main feelings are a mixture of delirious excitement, and terror, and I think that's healthy [laughs]. It still feels surreal and I can't quite picture myself on the show – it seems crazy that I'm going to be doing the thing that I've watched so many other people do for so long. And when I do imagine doing it, my knees go a bit wobbly.

What made you say yes to Strictly?

The thing that always blows my mind is watching people who've never danced before put on some of the most unbelievable displays of dancing prowess. To just be in the ballroom on that dance floor, I jumped at the chance because I love the show – and I love music, which is such a huge part of it.

The thought that I might learn even a tenth of the moves that people seem to be able to learn after a few weeks of the show, and to think that I could hold my own in any dance-off in a club, is amazing.

What are you most looking forward to, and what are you most nervous about?

I'm specifically nervous about remembering the routines. It's not that I'm particularly nervous about the movement, although I am obviously nervous about that, it’s the fear of getting lost on the dancefloor and not knowing what my legs are supposed to do next. There is a reason why I don't do TikTok dances on my feed, and it’s mainly because they take me about a week to learn! [laughs].

I am probably most excited about the feeling that will come after having done my first dance and it's gone well, but I don't know if that's going to happen so that's kind of maybe wishful thinking… Also, wearing some low-cut shirts!

Do you have a signature dance move?

I do this thing that is slightly hard to describe. I drop to my knee, down into a very low squat, and then I spring up again whilst alternately kicking my legs. I guess you could describe it as a kind of Cossack-inspired breakdancing move. Which gets harder and harder the older my knees get, and it doesn't look as impressive as it feels!

If you could perform any iconic Strictly routine from past series, which would it be?

Probably Fleur East and Vito when they did the Destiny's Child Mega Mix, which was their first perfect score of 40 - and at Blackpool no less. If you're going to pull out a 40 pointer, that's the time to do it!

How did your family and friends react when you told them?

My mum cried, which is very sweet. She’s a big fan of the show. Everyone else was just very, very excited, but mum shedding a few tears was probably the highlight.

Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?

It would have to be my mum. When I first got into telly, I think it's been my mum's ambition for me. When I got my first big proper telly gig, my Mum was like, “oh my god, does this mean you might be able to do Strictly?”. So, this has been on her mood board for about 15 years.

What are you hoping to get out of the experience?

Besides some dance moves, my friends that have done the show like Fleur [East] and AJ [Odudu], are still good mates with people that they did the show with. It's probably that, and it sounds really pathetic doesn’t it, but making friends! [laughs].

What would be your dream song to dance to?

I interviewed Sam Smith on the radio recently, and they have a new single out called My Guy, and in the studio we said this would be an incredible song for a waltz. I told them that because they love Strictly, and I said to them that I would dance to the song. They said, “please dance to it and I’ll come sing it”! Which obviously can't happen because that would be very unfair [laughs].

Have you met any of your fellow Strictly 2026 contestants before?

I've met Dani Dyer, but I haven't seen her since I chose her dad as my specialist subject on Mastermind, so I don't know whether she is going to be freaked out by me and I’m slightly embarrassed. I chose him because he's a national treasure. I've always thought it would be fun to be mates with him, but in hindsight, I don't know whether basically telling somebody that you're an obsessive fan is the best way to spark a lasting friendship.

Do you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?

Before every live Big Brother show, I have one small beer, a cola, and a water – separately! I basically have 3 drinks and it's always quite difficult to hold them all. But I probably shouldn't have the cola just before dancing, because I don't want to be, you know, gassy if I am very close to somebody else's face…

I also always give AJ a hug before going live, so it's going to be so weird getting all spruced up in my Cuban heels and my low-cut shirts and not having AJ there to wave me off onto the stage!

How would your family/friends describe your dancing skills?

I'd say eccentric. I wouldn't go as far as to say non-existent, but there’s room for improvement.

Which Strictly judge, pro or fellow competitor would you most want to be trapped in the Big Brother house with and why?

I think Craig would be like the perfect Big Brother housemate. I've only met him to interview him, but he's very funny and he doesn't care what other people think. He has a hard, cutting exterior, but actually he's a big softy on the inside, so you would get a real character arc. He’d go in as the slightly grumpy, prickly character, and then he'd come out as a big loveable mushy mess, and it would be great.

Tabby Stoecker

How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026?

I am buzzing! But I will say it still genuinely feels like a dream, someone pinch me. I can’t comprehend that I’m actually going to be the person dancing in the sparkly dress and heels on the telly!

What made you say yes to Strictly?

I wanted a new challenge! I’ve still got so much more to do in my sport but from when I turned 18 and discovered skeleton, my whole life has been spent doing the same thing, trying to master the same skills every single day. Of course that’s got me to an Olympic gold medal which I couldn’t be prouder of - but it also means I’ve not put myself out there in a long time, to go and learn something totally new and challenge myself in a different way, and that’s how we grow right? Strictly feels like such an opportunity to find out who I am outside of my sport and push myself!

What are you most looking forward to?

Honestly, I have so much admiration for professional dancers - they make something so difficult and technical look effortless and beautiful, and I really really want to learn how to do that - to captivate people in that way and move my body with fluidity and grace! Plus, anything sparkly or jewelled has a special place in my heart so the costumes are a massive treat.

What are you most nervous about?

Oh there’s a lot of firsts coming up for me. I’m definitely nervous about wearing heels, dancing in heels, dancing on live television in heels… I’m also weirdly super nervous about tripping and falling down the stairs before the dancing even starts! I keep having little nightmares about it! For saying I’m an elite athlete, I can be incredibly clumsy.

Do you have a signature dance move?

To be honest I’m hardly ever in dancing situations - I started sports straight out of school so I didn’t go out dancing much when I was younger or anything! But I love a good kitchen boogie and usually it’s spinning and jumping or some variation of the two. Also - when the washing machine finishes its cycle it always plays this little song and it’s become a running joke at home that I stop what I’m doing and dance to it with a very specific move… I don't know how to describe it but it always makes people giggle.

If you could perform any iconic Strictly routine from past series, which would it be?

There are two that spring to mind… Faye Tozer and Giovanni doing theatre and jazz in the sunglasses. Faye’s got this long ponytail and it was just so, so cool - the style, the music and the precision. Then also the iconic samba that Danny Mac and Oti did. That lives rent free in my head.

How did your family and friends react when you told them?

There was a lot of screaming and jumping around doing their best ballroom dancing impressions. My best friend actually screamed out the window into the traffic we were sat in! To put it simply, they were all absolutely buzzing for me.

Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?

I have to dedicate my Strictly journey to my mum. There’s always music playing at home and mum’s always stood in the kitchen grooving - she’s been through a lot in her life and given everything to raise my sister and I. She’s such a strong woman and I don’t think I ever see her happier than when she’s dancing to a good track. She goes out dancing as often as she can, she doesn’t even need someone to go with her - she does it for herself because it brings her joy to move and groove and I love that about her.

What are you hoping to get out of the experience?

I’d love to find some confidence in who I am outside of my sport - I’m used to performing with a level of armour so to speak - being in a helmet so no one can see my individuality. But on Strictly it’s going to be all about stripping those layers away and showing people who I truly am. It’s so vulnerable to express yourself fully but I’m craving the opportunity to explore who I am and share it with the world. No more smiling behind a helmet!

Have you had any advice from any former contestants?

I’ve spoken to a few - and the advice has been really similar. Do not underestimate how hard the training is. And blister plasters… lots and lots of blister plasters!

What would be your dream song to dance to?

I’d love to dance to Cherish the Day by Sade - maybe a rumba or something. It’s such a beautiful song about true love and I’d dedicate it to my mum and dad - my dad passed away tragically when I was young and to this day my mum will forever say my dad was her one true love. So it would be nice to honour them through the dance.

Have you met any of your fellow Strictly 2026 contestants before?

No, I’ve never met any of them before! It was super exciting seeing people getting announced on socials and learning who I was going to share this amazing journey with! I think I’m the youngest celeb this year which is kind of cool because I get to speak to so many incredible people about their lives, soak up all the advice - I’ve already had a few pearls of wisdom from some of them!

Do you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?

Super cheesy but whenever I’m nervous before a big race I like to take myself off and find a mirror and just smile at myself - I usually end up laughing at the ridiculousness of it and it just reminds me of why I’m doing the nerve wrecking thing in the first place - because it makes me happy. And that just helps to calm me right down and reminds me to enjoy the moment. So if you catch me smiling at myself in a dressing room mirror now you know why.

How would your family and friends describe your dancing skills?

I think they’d say I’ve got rhythm and that I definitely look like I’m enjoying myself… but I don’t necessarily have any of the skills to back up my enthusiasm!

What do you think will be more nerve wracking, competing for a gold medal or dancing live on TV?

Dancing live on telly sounds incredibly nerve wracking but as I’ve still not done that yet, I have to say competing for a gold medal - the feeling of getting only one shot at achieving your dreams is a huge amount of pressure. Plus doing skeleton is dangerous in its own right, so that brings on the nerves too!

What are the transferable skills between competing at the Olympics and taking part in Strictly?

Well for starters they demand a lot of physical training, mental resilience and determination. I’d say for both you need to be ready to adapt at any moment, be extremely coachable and open to taking on feedback - good or bad - and be unflappable under pressure. Also both the Olympics and Strictly are live, so you’re putting yourself out there real time for people to watch - they’re both a performance of sorts! For skeleton specifically, we were encouraged to really tune into our body and our senses as we hurtle down the track, if you’re switched off for one moment you might miss something and then crash! So far it seems that dancing relies heavily on that trust in yourself too - so the skills translate really well!

Watch this space for more from the Class of 2026...

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