The fourth contestant for the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing has been announced. Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton will join the cast, following the early reveals of Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, and Delta Goodrem.
Early Announcements for New Season
The BBC show, returning for its first series after hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman departed, has made its announcements earlier than usual. Traditionally, names are revealed from August onward, but this year the lineup is coming together sooner.
Replacing Tess and Claudia is a trio of presenters: former professional dancer Johannes Radebe, former Christmas Special contestant Josh Widdecombe, and Emma Willis.
Chris Appleton: From Salon to Ballroom
Chris Appleton is a world-renowned conceptual hairstylist who has worked with A-list celebrities including Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Sofía Vergara, Ariana Grande, and Katy Perry. He expressed his excitement about joining the show.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Strictly Come Dancing and coming home to the UK for this incredible experience,” Appleton said. “I’ve always believed that the best things happen when you take a chance and try something new. 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.”
Previous Announcements
Lacey Turner, known for her role as Stacey Slater on EastEnders, was the first celebrity confirmed. She said: “I am so excited to be making my way to the dance floor this year to be a part of Strictly! I am a huge fan and can’t quite believe I will be taking part and not watching at home this year! I look forward to meeting everyone and learning a new skill!”
Dani Dyer also returns after being forced to withdraw from the previous season due to a foot injury. She shared: “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! I’m just over the moon and cannot wait to find out who else is doing it!”
Singer Delta Goodrem is also part of the lineup. She commented: “I’ve been incredibly honoured to perform on many different stages throughout my career - from TV, theatre, film sets, to touring my own shows around the world. There is, however, one stage I’ve never stepped onto and that is the ballroom floor! I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can’t wait to get started!”
Stay tuned for more celebrity announcements as the show prepares for its 2026 season.
