Balvinder Sopal, best known for playing Suki Panesar on EastEnders, has been confirmed as one of the celebrity contestants for the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing. The actor, who has been a fixture on Albert Square since 2019, will swap Walford for the ballroom when the show returns to BBC One and iPlayer in autumn.
The full line-up includes a mix of sports stars, actors, and TV personalities. Among them are Olympian Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw, and ex-footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. Actor Alex Kingston and Neighbours star Stefan Dennis are also taking part, though Dennis had to withdraw after Week 4 due to injury.
Other contestants include YouTuber George Clarke, Drag Race UK star La Voix (who withdrew during Blackpool Week due to injury), model and influencer Ellie, TV personality Thomas Skinner, presenter Vicky Pattison, LA correspondent Ross King, football pundit Karen Carney, and Welsh actor Amber.
TV personality Dani Dyer was originally announced but fractured her ankle in rehearsals and had to pull out. Kristian Nairn also withdrew for medical reasons before the series began. Executive producer Sarah James expressed sadness at Dani's departure, saying she had brought 'so much passion, joy and enthusiasm' to the show.
The series promises unforgettable group routines, world-class music acts, theme weeks, and the annual trip to the Tower Ballroom in Blackpool. Fans can expect the usual mix of glitz, glamour, and dramatic dance-offs when the show returns later this year.
