The full line-up for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 has been revealed, with three final celebrities joining the 12 already confirmed by the BBC. The show, which begins in September, will feature a mix of actors, sports stars, and social media personalities.
New Hosts and Returning Judges
This year marks a significant change as Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have stepped down from their presenting roles. They will be replaced by a trio of hosts: presenter Emma Willis, professional dancer Johannes Radebe, and comedian Josh Widdicombe. The judging panel remains unchanged, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Head Judge Shirley Ballas all returning.
Confirmed Celebrities
The BBC has officially announced 12 celebrities for the 2026 series: actress Lacey Turner, TV personality Dani Dyer, singer-songwriter Delta Goodrem, hair stylist Chris Appleton, social media star Cach Mercer, TV and radio host Will Best, paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, actress Jaime Winstone, actress Bethany Antonia, pundit Shaun Wright-Phillips, dog trainer Graeme Hall, and actor Lawrence Robb.
Rumoured Additions
According to The Sun, actress Melanie Walters, best known for her role as Gwen West in Gavin and Stacey, will also be taking part. The 64-year-old, who also teaches pilates and is a personal trainer, is said to be a popular choice among BBC bosses.
YouTuber John Nellis, 33, is also rumoured to be joining. A source told The Sun: "John has a huge following online, which will boost Strictly's presence on social media. He has become loved among all the big names in football and is bound to be a hit with viewers. Bosses realise that YouTube stars can bring in a whole new audience and John will do just that."
Olympic gold medallist Tabby Stoecker, who recently made her Gladiators debut, is the third rumoured contestant. A source said: "Signing with two of telly's biggest shows is hugely prestigious. It is virtually unprecedented. It also means that she'll be on our screens on a Saturday night for almost seven months in a row. Strictly runs from September to December and Gladiators airs from January and can go on until March. She's likely to be invited on the Strictly tour in the new year too - so she's going to be kept very busy and will see her profile soar."
In response to the speculation, the BBC said: "We don't comment on speculation."
