Strictly Come Dancing fever is well underway ahead of the 2026 series, with several cast members already revealed, including a House of the Dragon star and a Paralympic champion. The new batch of competitors will be joining the show at a pivotal time, with major changes including the departure of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, replaced by Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe. Several pro dancers have also left or been benched.
Confirmed contestants
Bethany Antonia – The 28-year-old actress, best known for playing Lady Baela Targaryen in House of the Dragon, said: 'I can’t quite believe that I will be heading to the Strictly ballroom this September! I have grown up watching Strictly, and I am so excited to take the challenge on and (hopefully!) learn a new skill.'
Jaime Winstone – Daughter of Ray Winstone, Jaime has starred in Kidulthood and Tomb Raider. She said: 'I am so excited to announce that I will be joining the Strictly Come Dancing cast this year. I am no stranger to a dance floor, but the ballroom is a whole new world for me.'
Dame Sarah Storey – Britain’s most successful Paralympian, with 30 medals, said: 'Embarking on a new challenge so soon after stepping down as an athlete is hugely exciting.'
Will Best – Big Brother presenter, 41, said: 'I can’t quite believe it…I’m doing Strictly! What an absolute dream. Albeit a pretty terrifying one.'
Cach Mercer – Love Island 2025 winner, who has 1.3 million TikTok followers, said: 'I have grown up watching the show with my family and am so excited to now be part of the cast.'
Chris Appleton – Hairstylist to the stars, said: 'I may know my way around a salon floor, but the dance floor is a whole different story.'
Delta Goodrem – Australian singer, 41, who represented Australia at Eurovision 2026, said: 'I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can’t wait to get started!'
Lacey Turner – EastEnders actress, 38, said: 'I am so excited to be making my way to the dance floor this year to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing.'
Dani Dyer – Returning after withdrawing last year due to an ankle fracture, she said: 'I am so excited to be back in the ballroom this September!'
Rumoured contestants
Dame Sarah Storey (also confirmed), Jeff Brazier, Josie Gibson, and Jake Quickenden have been reported as potential participants. A source told The Sun that Jeff Brazier is in talks, while Josie Gibson is said to be 'on the BBC’s radar.' Jake Quickenden, who won Dancing On Ice in 2018, has expressed interest.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to the BBC in September.
