The BBC has unveiled an impressive roster of celebrities for Strictly Come Dancing 2026, including House of the Dragon star Bethany Antonia and Love Island winner Cach Mercer
The anticipation for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 is building as the BBC continues to reveal the celebrity contestants set to grace the iconic dance floor. With a fresh trio of hosts—Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe—taking the reins, this year’s series promises to be as thrilling as ever.
The show, which typically kicks off in September, has already confirmed a diverse array of participants, ranging from accomplished athletes to beloved actors and reality TV stars. Fans are eager to see how these celebrities will rise to the challenge of mastering intricate dance routines.
The Star-Studded Line-Up
The 2026 series features a mix of familiar faces and new talents. Among the highlights is Bethany Antonia known for her role as Baela Targaryen in House of the Dragon. Antonia expressed her excitement, stating, “I can’t quite believe that I will be heading to the Strictly ballroom this September!”
From TV Screens to the Dance Floor
Jaime Winstone renowned for her roles in Dead Set and Poirot is another notable addition. Winstone, who is no stranger to performing, shared her enthusiasm: “I am no stranger to a dance floor, but the ballroom is a whole new world for me.”
Dame Sarah Storey the UK’s most decorated Paralympian, is also set to join the competition. With 19 gold medals under her belt, Storey is ready to take on a new challenge: “Embarking on a new challenge so soon after stepping down as an athlete is hugely exciting.”
Reality TV Stars and Presenters
Cach Mercer the winner of Love Island 2026 is bringing his dancing passion to Strictly. Mercer, who has a significant following on TikTok, said, “Dancing is a huge passion of mine and I can’t wait to learn Ballroom and do the Foxtrot for the first time!”
Will Best known for presenting Big Brother and the Hits Radio Breakfast Show is swapping his microphone for dancing shoes. Best admitted, “I have no idea if I can actually dance, but bring on the sequins, bring on the quicksteps, bring on the dance floor!”
Returning with a Vengeance
Dani Dyer who had to withdraw from the previous series due to an injury, is making a comeback. Dyer, who won Love Island in 2018, expressed her joy: “I am so excited to be back in the ballroom this September!”
Lacey Turner best known for her role as Stacey Slater in EastEnders was the first contestant announced for the 2026 series. Turner, a long-time fan of the show, shared her excitement: “I am a huge fan and can’t quite believe I will be taking part and not watching at home this year!”
International Flair
Delta Goodrem the Australian singer-songwriter and coach on The Voice Australia is adding an international touch to the line-up. Goodrem, who achieved remarkable success at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 said, “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can’t wait to get started!”
Chris Appleton the renowned hairstylist to the stars, is trading the salon floor for the dance floor. Appleton, who has styled celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, shared his excitement: “I’ve always believed that the best things happen when you take a chance and try something new.”
The Judges and Professionals
The judging panel remains unchanged, with Shirley BallasCraig Revel HorwoodMotsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke returning to offer their expert opinions. The professional dancers have also seen some changes, with new faces joining the lineup while some fan favorites depart.
As the announcements continue throughout the summer, fans can look forward to more exciting revelations ahead of the new series airing on BBC One and iPlayer this September.
