The BBC has announced the first celebrity contestant for Strictly Come Dancing 2026, and it's a beloved soap icon. EastEnders star Lacey Turner, known for her role as Stacey Slater, will be taking to the dance floor later this year.
Lacey Turner's Excitement and Past Comments
Lacey expressed her excitement in a statement: "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!"
The announcement was made official on social media, with fans delighted by her participation. However, her previous remarks about the show have resurfaced. In 2017, she told OK! Magazine: "I have been asked to go on Strictly but I'm rubbish at dancing and I don't really have the guts," and "I'd do it if it wasn't on telly – I just don't like being on TV!" She added, "I do think it's a great show to do, though, as you learn a new skill." Joking at the time, she said: "Maybe one day I'll grow a pair and put the shoes on." By 2019, she softened her stance, saying: "I don't know if I could do any but I guess if I was going to do any I would do either Strictly, although I can't dance, or the jungle."
Fan Reactions
Supporters have been thrilled with the news. One fan posted on Instagram: "Shes already won.. even if shes only 3rd 4th best.. her popularity will be incredible!" Another commented: "Oh my god amazing!!!" Multiple fans noted how quickly the year has passed, with one saying: "Gosh you know the year has gone by so fast if they are already revealing the celebs." Another added: "Celeb reveals already?!"
Changes to the Show
The beloved dancing competition returns later this year with new hosts Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis, and Johannes Radebe, replacing Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly. This major BBC shake-up follows the axing of several professional dancers, including Michelle Tsiakkas and Gorka Marquez.
Rumoured Contestants
Several names are rumoured to join Lacey on the dance floor, including This Morning's Josie Gibson and Eurovision icon Delta Goodrem. Just weeks ago, Delta addressed speculation when quizzed by Good Morning Britain hosts Ed Balls, Susanna Reid, and Richard Arnold. After a clip of Delta dancing at a Eurovision afterparty aired, Ed commented on her "good frame." Susanna replied, "What are you suggesting Ed?" as Richard quipped, "You knew we were going to go here!" Teasing the rumours, Delta said: "Every time I've been in the UK and I can immerse into Strictly, I love music with all my heart. As I said last year before Eurovision, I'm always open. I love the variety of the arts... I'm always open!"
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.
