The BBC has confirmed that Gavin and Stacey actress Melanie Walters will be the final celebrity joining Strictly Come Dancing 2026, completing the full lineup for the upcoming series. The announcement was made on Wednesday, August 12.
Career and role as Gwen West
The Swansea-born actress has built a career across film, radio, television, and theatre over several decades. Her television credits include Death Valley, Coronation Street, Beyond Paradise, Being Human, Hollyoaks, Biff and Chip, and Doc Martin, while her film work includes Submarine, Resistance, High Tide, and Save the Cinema.
She is best known to Gavin and Stacey fans as omelette-loving Gwen West.
Melanie's reaction to joining
Speaking about joining the show, Melanie told the BBC: "Performing in Pantomime for the last 15 years, my Strictly 'fix' has always been watching in a dressing room rather than my front room."
"This year I am completely thrilled and happy to swap my fairy wand for sequinned dance shoes. I just hope I don't follow Cinderella and leave one on the Ballroom stairs."
"I cannot wait to take part in this absolutely iconic show, it's so exciting. See you in September!"
Full lineup and show changes
Melanie will compete against Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Cach Mercer, Will Best, Dame Sarah Storey, Jaime Winstone, Bethany Antonia, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Graeme Hall, Lawrence Robb, Tabby Stoecker, and John Nellis.
The BBC has said additional announcements will be made over the summer before the series launches on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in September.
This year's show has seen major changes following the exits of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, as well as several professional dancers. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe will take over presenting duties.
The judging panel remains unchanged, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Head Judge Shirley Ballas returning. Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in September.
