The Strictly Come Dancing 2026 series is generating significant excitement as several cast members have already been announced. Last year's winners, Lioness Karen Carney and professional partner Carlos Gu, set a high bar for the new contestants. This season marks a major transition for the BBC's flagship dancing show, with hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman departing and being replaced by a trio of new presenters: broadcaster Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe.
Confirmed Contestants for Strictly Come Dancing 2026
Five celebrities have been officially confirmed for the 2026 line-up, each bringing a unique background to the dance floor.
Cach Mercer
Influencer Cach Mercer, known for winning Love Island with partner Toni Laites in 2025, joins the cast. His social media fame, with over 1.3 million TikTok followers, stems from his Afrobeat, hip-hop, and street dance moves. "I have grown up watching the show with my family and am so excited to now be part of the cast. Dancing is a huge passion of mine and I can't wait to learn Ballroom and do the Foxtrot for the first time!" he said in a statement.
Chris Appleton
Leicester-born hairstylist Chris Appleton, 43, has styled Hollywood A-listers including Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Sofia Vergara, and Ariana Grande. In 2023, Kim Kardashian officiated his wedding to actor Lukas Gage (the couple later divorced). "I may know my way around a salon floor, but the dance floor is a whole different story – and I can't wait to get started," he stated.
Delta Goodrem
Australian singer-songwriter Delta Goodrem, 41, signed her first record deal at 15 and has released seven albums, selling millions of copies. She represented Australia at Eurovision 2026. "I'm absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can't wait to get started!" she said. Reports indicate she has been on the show's wishlist for years.
Lacey Turner
EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, 38, who has played Stacey Slater for over 20 years, is taking a break from Albert Square to join Strictly. "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!" she wrote.
Dani Dyer
Reality TV star Dani Dyer, 29, returns after a brief stint last year when she withdrew due to an ankle fracture. Originally partnered with Nikita Kuzmin, she said on The Jonathan Ross Show that she would "love" to do Strictly again. "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!" she said.
Rumoured Contestants for Strictly Come Dancing 2026
Several celebrities are rumoured to be joining the cast, though official announcements are pending.
Dame Sarah Storey
Paralympic cyclist Dame Sarah Storey, 37, Britain's most successful Paralympian with 30 medals including 19 gold, is reportedly signed up. A source told The Sun: "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 viewers get to know her personality." She had to withdraw from Dancing on Ice last year due to injury.
Jeff Brazier
Jeff Brazier, 47, father of former Strictly runner-up Bobby Brazier (2023), is in talks to compete. A source told The Sun: "Previously he said he wouldn't do it because he didn't want to step on Bobby's toes. But three years have passed now and it's a massive opportunity for Jeff. He has discussed it with Bobby who thinks it would be amazing if his dad was to give it a go."
Josie Gibson
Big Brother winner and This Morning presenter Josie Gibson, 41, is reportedly on the BBC's radar. A source told The Sun: "Bosses are convinced her down-to-earth charm will be the boost this year's new-look show needs. Warm and engaging, she's just what they require right now and will be a sure-fire hit with fans." She placed fourth in I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! in 2023.
Jake Quickenden
X-Factor alum and Dancing on Ice winner Jake Quickenden, 37, currently stars in CBBC's Jamie Johnson FC. A source told The Sun that he'd "caught the eye of the Strictly bookers." Quickenden has said he would "love to do it" should the opportunity arise.
Changes to the Show
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 features significant changes, including the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, replaced by Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe. The professional dancer line-up has also seen departures: Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Gorka Márquez have left, while Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will be benched without partners.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to the BBC in September 2026.
