Strictly Come Dancing fans are all saying the same thing after the BBC confirmed that EastEnders star Lacey Turner is the first celebrity to join the 2026 lineup. The 38-year-old actress, who has played Stacey Slater on the soap since 2004, will compete for the Glitterball trophy when the show returns in September.
Lacey Turner Breaks Silence
In a video shared on Strictly's official Instagram page, Turner announced her participation, saying: "Hello, it's Lacey Turner. I can't quite believe that I'm actually saying this, but I want to let you in on a little secret. This September, I will be taking my little toes onto the dance floor to do Strictly Come Dancing. I can't believe it. I'm so excited and so terrified at the same time, but I've had so many friends do Strictly and I thought it was about time I plucked up the courage and made my way onto that dance floor. So there you go, secret's out. See you in September!"
Changes to the Show
The first celebrity reveal comes after the BBC series bid farewell to dancers Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Gorka Marquez. Additionally, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe were announced as the new hosts last month, replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down after the 2025 series. The trio will host the show together for the first time in its 22-year history.
Early Announcement Surprises Fans
Fans noted that the celebrity announcement is much earlier than usual. In 2025, the full lineup was not confirmed until mid-August, making this year's reveal two months ahead of schedule. On Instagram, @amarlott wrote: "Wait celeb reveals announced early!?!? But also woooo Lacey gonna be amazing." @joannamac39 added: "Earliest celeb announcements ever! Fantastic news. Welcome Lacey!" @drag4lifezz agreed: "The show doesn’t start for 3 months !! This is so quick." @hayleighmcgoran16 said: "Celeb reveals already that’s quite early no I feel like we just finished the last season."
