Social media star John Ellis has been announced as the 14th contestant for Strictly Come Dancing. The YouTube star will take to the dancefloor later this year in a newly revamped edition of the BBC dancing programme, with Johannes Radebe, Josh Widdecombe and Emma Willis fronting the show for the first time.
John Ellis's journey to Strictly
John said: "I'm still in disbelief that I've been selected for Strictly and, if I'm honest, I'm a little nervous as I've never danced before! It's such an incredible opportunity, and I'm going to throw myself into every moment. I can't wait to meet everyone, learn a new skill, and, hopefully, be much better at family parties by the end of it!"
Former air traffic control officer John left his job to take on content creation full-time. Since then, he's rapidly become one of the leading stars in his field, having won Sport Creator of the Year at the 2024 TikTok Awards UK and Ireland.
Other announced contestants
He joins Olympian Tabby Stoecker, who was announced as a contestant just days earlier. The athlete, who won gold at this year's 2026 Winter Olympic Games and recently joined BBC's Gladiators, said: "I am over the moon to be joining the cast of Strictly 2026. I've had the wildest year of my life so far, so to be rounding it off with a childhood dream of dancing in the Strictly ballroom is surreal, and I can't wait to get stuck in!"
Emmerdale's Lawrence Robb, who plays Mackenzie Boyd on the ITV soap opera, has also been announced. Speaking about joining the show, the actor said: "I don't know who’s more excited about this, me or my Mother. I can't quite believe that I am going to be getting my dancing shoes on this September on one of my favourite shows of all time! It's a dream come true, and I can't wait to bring my all to the ballroom. Wish me luck, and any advice is very welcome - trust me, I'll need it!"
More stars confirmed
Graeme 'The Dogfather' Hall, best known for sharing advice and caring tips for dogs, 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. I have watched the show for years, so to be a part of it feels like a very exciting challenge, albeit more than a bit nerve-wracking! I can't wait to get started. Bring it on!"
Elsewhere, former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, Lacey Turner, House of the Dragon's Bethany Antonia, actress Jaime Winestone, Dany Dyer, Cach Mercer, Delta Goodrem and Chris Appleton will also be showcasing their best moves when Strictly returns.
