Strictly Come Dancing fans have taken to social media to criticise this year's line-up, with some calling it the "worst line up in Strictly history." The BBC officially announced the 2026 contestants following the unexpected departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, along with several long-standing professional dancers.
New hosts and judges confirmed
The programme has unveiled a fresh cast of professionals alongside three new presenters stepping in to fill the void left by Tess and Claudia. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and former professional dancer Johannes Radebe will take on hosting responsibilities.
One aspect that remains unchanged is the show's esteemed judging panel. Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Head Judge Shirley Ballas will all return to cast their expert eye over this year's contestants.
Contestants announced for 2026
This year they will be judging Melanie Walters, Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Cach Mercer, Will Best, Dame Sarah Storey, Jaime Winstone, Bethany Antonia, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Graeme Hall, Lawrence Robb, Tabby Stoecker, and John Nellis in the 2026 series.
Following the announcement, fans shared their opinions on social media, with some expressing disappointment. One person said on X: "Just seen the 'celebrity' line-up for the upcoming series of Strictly...Who????" Another added: "Okay...it has to be said. Hands down the WORST line up in #Strictly's entire history."
A third said: "A football content creator, a dog trainer, a Hairdresser & 2 love island stars in a lineup on #Strictly that is meant to represent a new era for the show beyond Tess and Claudia's exit. I mean I might as well go on the show myself at this point."
Mixed reactions from fans
However, others are intrigued to get to know the members of the line-up they haven't heard of. One social media user argued: "Not the best lineup we've ever had but certainly not the worst by any stretch of the imagination. I like to get to know the celebrities throughout the series and watch them progress that way and I think we'll be in for a couple of suprises this year."
Another said: "Line-up officially complete. It’s a little light on fame. But I’m sure it’s a good mix of people and personalities. Roll on September!"
The BBC has confirmed that further announcements will follow over the summer ahead of the brand-new series launching on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this September.
