Who’s in the cast of Strictly 2026? Every confirmed and rumoured star so far
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 Cast Revealed: A Fresh Start with New Stars and Changes
Who s in the cast of Strictly - The long-awaited countdown for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 has kicked off, with the first wave of confirmed participants making their debut. This season’s lineup promises to bring a mix of seasoned talent and fresh faces, as the show embarks on a transformative journey under new leadership. With the ballroom floor set to welcome a wave of exciting new performers, fans are eager to see how the competition will unfold.
A New Era for the Show’s Hosts
One of the most notable shifts in the 2026 edition is the change in hosting. After years of captivating audiences alongside Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the show is stepping into uncharted territory with a trio of new presenters. Emma Willis, the BBC’s beloved presenter, will join forces with comedian Josh Widdicombe and professional dancer Johannes Radebe to steer the program. This transition marks a bold move, as the hosts aim to bring a fresh dynamic to the studio while maintaining the show’s signature energy.
Shifting Pro Dancer Line-Up
Alongside the hosting change, the professional dancer roster has undergone a significant overhaul. Fan favorites such as Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Gorka Márquez have all left the show, signaling the end of an era. Meanwhile, Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will take a step back without partners, leaving room for new talent to step up. This reshuffle suggests a strategic focus on blending experience with emerging stars, potentially reshaping the dance dynamics for the season.
Delta Goodrem: A Musical Icon on the Dance Floor
Among the confirmed celebrities, Delta Goodrem stands out as a standout addition. At 41, the Australian singer-songwriter has built an impressive career, beginning with her debut at just 15 years old. Her seven studio albums and global success have cemented her status as a music legend. However, her 2026 participation marks a new challenge: transitioning from singing to dancing. In a recent statement, she shared her excitement for this venture, stating, “I’ve been incredibly honoured to perform on many different stages throughout my career—from TV, theatre, film sets, to touring my own shows around the world. There is, however, one stage I’ve never stepped onto, and that is the ballroom floor.” This bold move has made her a top contender in the casting process.
Lacey Turner: From EastEnders to Strictly
Lacey Turner, known for her iconic portrayal of Stacey Slater in EastEnders, is set to take on a new role in 2026. After nearly two decades in the soap opera, the 38-year-old actor is embracing a different kind of spotlight. Her transition from the fictional streets of Albert Square to the real-life ballroom floor has been eagerly anticipated. In a heartfelt message, she expressed her enthusiasm: “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! I look forward to meeting everyone and learning a new skill!” This shift highlights her dedication to exploring new creative avenues.
Dani Dyer: A Comeback in the Ballroom
Dani Dyer, the reality TV star, is returning to Strictly after a brief absence. Last year, she was forced to withdraw from the competition following an ankle injury, which left her disappointed. Despite the setback, she has since regained her confidence and is now back for a second chance. Her previous partnership with Nikita Kuzmin was cut short when Amber Davies stepped in, but this year, she is eager to rekindle her dance journey. In a statement, she shared her excitement: “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!” This resurgence underscores her determination to succeed.
Paralympic Champion Sarah Storey Joins the Line-Up
Adding to the list of intriguing additions is Paralympic cyclist Dame Sarah Storey, 37, who is rumored to be joining the 2026 cast. While an official announcement has yet to be made, sources close to the show have hinted at her potential involvement. A representative from The Sun revealed, “Sarah is delighted to be taking part in Strictly and is really excited to be learning a new skill. She is obviously very competitive and hopes to give the contest her all, while letting vie.” This inclusion brings a unique perspective, as Storey’s athletic background could offer a compelling contrast to the show’s traditional dance format.
What to Expect from the 2026 Season
With such a diverse array of participants, the 2026 season is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience. The mix of established names like Carney and Gu, alongside newcomers such as Delta Goodrem and Lacey Turner, suggests a lineup that balances familiarity with innovation. Fans will be watching closely to see how these stars adapt to the dance challenges and whether they can match the success of previous seasons. Meanwhile, the new hosts and pro dancers will bring fresh energy to the show, potentially redefining its format and appeal.
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Anticipation Builds for the New Line-Up
As the show’s new era begins, the excitement among fans continues to grow. The combination of familiar faces and exciting newcomers ensures that there will be no shortage of drama and surprises. With the first cast announcements already generating buzz, the countdown to the September 2026 premiere is on. Viewers can expect a season filled with high-stakes competition, heartfelt stories, and the return of some of the most popular stars. The journey of these participants will be the focus, as they navigate the challenges of the dance floor and vie for the ultimate title.
Conclusion: A Season to Remember
The 2026 Strictly Come Dancing line-up represents a pivotal moment for the show. With significant changes in hosting, pro dancers, and celebrities, the season is set to be both innovative and nostalgic. As the competition heats up, fans will be treated to a mix of veteran performers and newcomers, each bringing their unique flair to the ballroom. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a first-time viewer, this season promises to deliver unforgettable moments and a fresh take on one of television’s most iconic dance programs.