The Strictly Come Dancing 2026 line-up is taking shape, with several celebrities confirmed for the new series, including dog expert Graeme 'The Dogfather' Hall, former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, and actress Bethany Antonia.
They will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of last year's winners, Lioness Karen Carney and professional partner Carlos Gu. The new cast joins as the show undergoes major changes, including the departure of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, replaced by Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe.
Confirmed celebrities for Strictly 2026
Graeme 'The Dogfather' Hall – The 60-year-old presenter of Channel 5's Dog's Behaving (Very) Badly said: 'I can't believe I am joining the cast of Strictly for 2026. I have always loved dancing, so to have the opportunity to learn from the best in the business is a dream come true.'
Shaun Wright-Phillips – The former England footballer, capped 36 times, said: 'Dancing is in my blood – but mainly at family events! Strictly is definitely outside my comfort zone, but I'm super excited to get started and really looking forward to the challenge!'
Bethany Antonia – The 28-year-old, known for House of the Dragon, said: 'I can't quite believe that I will be heading to the Strictly ballroom this September!'
Jaime Winstone – The actress, daughter of Ray Winstone, said: 'I am no stranger to a dance floor, but the ballroom is a whole new world for me.'
Dame Sarah Storey – The 48-year-old Paralympian, Britain's most successful, said: 'Embarking on a new challenge so soon after stepping down as an athlete is hugely exciting.'
Will Best – The Big Brother presenter, 41, said: 'I have no idea if I can actually dance, but bring on the sequins, bring on the quicksteps, bring on the dance floor!'
Cach Mercer – The Love Island winner, known for his dance moves 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!'
Chris Appleton – The 43-year-old celebrity hairstylist said: '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.'
Delta Goodrem – The Australian singer, 41, said: 'I'm absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can't wait to get started!'
Lacey Turner – The EastEnders star, 38, said: 'I am a huge fan and can't quite believe I will be taking part and not watching at home this year!'
Dani Dyer – The 29-year-old, who withdrew last year due to injury, said: 'I am so excited to be back in the ballroom this September!'
Rumoured contestants
Dame Sarah Storey was also rumoured before her confirmation, with a source saying she was 'delighted to be taking part'. Jeff Brazier, Josie Gibson, and Jake Quickenden are also reported to be in talks.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to the BBC in September.
